An example of a wheeled scrum
Two even packs compete at the scrum, good technique creates a good and safe contest. The black team use the platform from the scrum to score a try wide out. Key factors : 8 players working as a unit - Calling - Strong body position - Hips, back and head all facing forward - Accurate binding
Junior - 2 v 1 2
A strong scrum can be a great weapon for attack in seven's, in this clip the Red scrum puts pressure on the defending loose head (Right hand prop) which wheels the scrum and allows the defending scrum half to disrupt the ball forcing a turnover. Key factors : Tight binding - Low body position - Leg drive - Working as a unit
Level 2 - Scrum Body Positions
Junior Scrums
Women's - Straight Scrums 2
An example of a wheeled scrum
Junior - 2 v 1 1
Junior - Wrap Tackle 2
An example of a wheeled scrum
Junior - Ball off the top from lineout 2
Developing play from the scrum is an important part of the understanding of how the scrum is part of a gameplan
Scrums are a great platform to attack from in seven's, notice the fly half (2nd reciever) is directly behind the scrum and can choose which way to attack. Key factors : Work as a unit - Strong core - Tight binding - Leg drive
Developing play from the scrum is an important part of the understanding of how the scrum is part of a gameplan
An example of a straight scrum
Using the wheel effectively opens up areas of space on the pitch to attack
This clip shows some appropriate warm up activities for the scrum
An example of a collapsed scrum
Progressiing the scrum practice always requires the underlining of the basics of the unit skill
Good body posture is essential and applicable to all players regardless of age and gender
This posture transfers to the tackle, ruck, maul and in a vertical plain the lineout, so it is important that all players are coached to adopt good posture in contact
This drill acts as a warm up for the single player, with the other two simply providing resistance. The single player must maintain a strong body position and push the other two backwards.
Players can strike from any location on the pitch, in this clip the Red team relax thinking they have the attackers behind their own posts, however a strong scrum, good pass and great step create the gap to go through, the next 95 metres is all about speed and fitnes. Key factors : Space beetween attackers - Good pass - Side step - Speed - Stamina
Developing the skills into decision making down a channel
Building the scrum in triangles
The role of each position
Sevens - Full Lineout 2
A straight drive and square culture, will bring about eight players doing the same thing at the same time
The sides are now even and the players can tackle, but not attempt to steal the ball. Again, the defence must retreat 5m, giving the attackers opportunities.
A progression from the 1 v 1 drill this exercise adds extra players to make the decision making process more realistic. The coaches can vary the delivery of the ball and the width of the area to put different conditions to the players
The introduction of the scrum for both mini players and coaches can be confusing. This clip explains the the reasoning behind the 3 man scrum and the technical points that ned to be taught
Conor O Shea disucsses what a scrum half is responsible for
Each player should understand how their individual contribution affects the scrum as a whole
A well contested scrum from both teams. Good technique and body position ensure a solid and safe scrum. The red team use this restart to kick and gain territory. Key factors : Strong body position - Tight binding between the players - Calling - Players push in a straight line - Ball control from ther no 8
Gradually progress from 2 static defenders, to 3 v 2 roaming defenders. The first two players must draw their defenders before giving the pass.
Testing your scrums in training using a scrum machine / sled helps to ensure all of your pack practice the correct body position and timing in cooperation with their team mates. This is a great time to try out new combinations of players before match day.
A development of the 2 v 1 and 3 v1 drills, the attackers now must beat 2 defenders. This requires more decision-making ability as the movements of the defenders could change every time. Players must communicate as well as continue to perform their handling and running skills.
Sale Sharks and Scotland scrum half Chris Cusiter leads a session on passing from the base of a scrum or ruck. In this first video, Chris addresses basic technique in a couple of exercises that warm up the wrists and arms.
Developing play from the scrum is an important part of the understanding of how the scrum is part of a gameplan
An example of a straight scrum.
Set piece coach George skivington from London Irish talks through some new tips to coach the scrum
This clip outlines some of the fundamental techniques required to become a good passer of the ball from the ground, an essential skill for scrum half's. Simple and easy instructions for both coaches and players to benefit from
Coaching the scrum has a series of processes to follow and once you have established a strong body position the engagement and getting ready for the engagement is the next step
This clip provides some advice for the front row on their binding, body position and driving in the scrum.
Working from a single players body position to a full scrum can be daunting for some coaches. In this clip there are simple steps to progress and the technical points are consistent
Conor O Shea discuss the profile of scrum half
The roles of each player in channelling the ball to the number 8
The dark arts are not for all of us, but the minority of specialists will benefit from this clip. You can share this video with those who should see it. Go into the video library where you can send it on - RCD Video Library
Women's - Good contact body position/ball presentation 2
Junior - Strike Moves 1
Level 2 - Back Row Example Clip 1
Level 2 - Second Row Bind - Traditional Bind
Men's - Offloads for Continuity 2
Men's - Standard restart with good catch 2
Women's - 2 v 3 1
Tackling 20 - 2 man Tackle
Women's - Exiting the 22m 2
Having identified a 2 v 1 situation, the RGS Guildford player decides not to give an early pass from the breakdown, but instead to run and commit the defender before giving a pass to his teammate. Key factors: Timing - communication - accurate passing
Women's - 2 v 1
An brief summary of coaching the new scrum engage sequence. Always include a good upper body warm up and highlight the importance of a strong core with your players. Check the 'Body Position and Technique' section for full videos including hooking technique.