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U13 - What Can I Do?

Most 11 and 12-year-olds are comfortable with the ball and have a range of skills to beat pressure. Their body control and coordination are maturing, giving them the agility to change speed and direction quickly.

Sessions should include plenty of practice against opposition, to reinforce and refine their skills under pressure.

For some players, early adolescence can temporarily affect agility, coordination and balance while they grow. These changes can also take an emotional toll, as players get frustrated with their performance or worry about where they fit in socially. Be patient and encouraging.

What I’m like at Under 13, and what you can do

What I’m like Try this
I’m starting to scan and decide before the ball arrives. Play games that reward looking up early. Ask “What did you see before you caught it?”
I can attack and defend in more complex ways. Add layers to your games: more players, more options and more phases. Use overloads like 4v3 to create decisions.
I’m getting stronger and more confident in contact. Channel it safely. Coach tackle technique step by step using RugbySmart, and remember the tackle must be below the sternum.
I can kick using a range of techniques. Play kicking games with targets and choices (grubber, chip, punt), and encourage both feet.
Most of us haven’t hit puberty yet, but size and weight differences are starting to show. Match players by size and experience in contact activities. Don’t decide positions by size alone.
I can control and change the rhythm of play. Let players choose when to speed up or slow down in games, then ask them why.
I’m starting to understand space. Change the size and shape of your playing area, and keep asking “Where’s the space?”

 

PLAYING RUGBY U11 TO U13

  • Set clear expectations together. Players this age respond well to structure. Agree a few simple team expectations at the start of the season, and stick to them.
  • Keep them busy. You only have them for an hour or so. Plan well and keep everyone active.
  • Fun and skill development go together. The best sessions do both. Well-designed games build skills and keep players coming back.
  • Treat them like 12-year-olds, not little All Blacks or Black Ferns. Take an interest in their lives outside rugby, so you stay connected with them.
  • Help them understand the game. Explain roles and responsibilities, and start explaining why. Ask questions so players work things out for themselves.
  • Keep positions open. Body type, experience and skill start to shape where players play, but keep giving players a go in different positions. Once a wing doesn’t mean always a wing.
  • Be honest. Give short, clear reasons for your decisions.
  • Make praise real. Players this age can spot empty praise. Praise effort and specific things they do well, rather than handing out awards in turn.