Principles of Scrummaging 5v5

Summary

The video discusses a rugby training session focusing on front row players practicing scrums. The coach emphasizes the importance of maintaining good shape and balance, with pressure from both the front and back rows. Players are instructed to work together as a unit without pushing each other backward. The session includes guidance on foot positioning and shoulder alignment to improve performance. The coach acts as the referee, calling out crouch, bind, and set commands, while providing feedback on technique and communication between players, especially with flankers.

Takeaways

• 💪 Focus on front row vs. front row practice with back rowers involved.
• 📏 Emphasis on maintaining a square shape and working as a group, not pushing back.
• 🔄 Importance of handling pressure from both the flankers and the front row.
• 🤝 Instructed to bind up as front rows and then fold in with the flankers.
• 👟 Good foot positioning and maintaining form are key aspects.
• 🧑‍⚖️ The coach will act as the referee to call out crouch, bind, and set commands.
• 📐 Adjustments to foot positioning can help maintain better balance and form.
• ⚖️ Focus on holding shape during engagement and maintaining balance.
• 🗣 Players encouraged to communicate with flankers to prevent being pushed off balance.
• 📈 Feedback given to adjust posture and narrow stance for improved performance.

Q & A

What is the main focus of the coach's instructions in this script?

The coach is focusing on maintaining good shape and technique in the front row during scrums, ensuring that the team works as a cohesive unit without trying to overpower the opposition but instead focusing on balance and alignment.

Why is it important for the players to stay square and maintain their shape during the drill?

Staying square and maintaining shape is crucial because it allows the team to apply pressure evenly and maintain balance, preventing the scrum from collapsing or becoming disjointed. It also helps the flankers and front rowers work together effectively.

What is the role of the flankers in this drill?

The flankers are positioned behind the front row and apply pressure to help stabilize and support the scrum. Their role is to push and maintain pressure while coordinating with the front row to hold their shape.

What does the coach mean by 'hold that shape'?

The phrase 'hold that shape' refers to the players maintaining their body position, alignment, and balance during the scrum, ensuring they stay in a strong and stable formation throughout the drill.

What adjustment does the coach suggest to improve the players' technique?

The coach suggests that players adjust their feet and drop their hips slightly to improve stability and balance, which would help them maintain a better shape in the scrum.

What specific feedback does the coach give about the players' shoulders?

The coach advises one of the players to lift their shoulder, as it was too narrow, which would help improve their balance and maintain a better position in the scrum.

Why does the coach emphasize communication between props and flankers?

The coach emphasizes communication because if a flanker is driving across improperly, it can disrupt the scrum. Clear communication allows the prop and flanker to work together and apply pressure in the correct direction.

What is the purpose of the coach acting as a referee during the drill?

The coach acts as a referee to simulate real match conditions, giving calls like 'crouch, bind, set' to help the players practice their engagement and timing during a scrum, which is critical in actual gameplay.

What does the coach observe about the relationship between Michael and another player during the scrum?

The coach observes that Michael was pushing another player forward, which suggests that the flankers might need to adjust their pressure to maintain balance in the scrum.

What is the goal of repeating the scrum drills multiple times?

The goal of repeating the drills is to fine-tune the players' technique, positioning, and coordination, ensuring that they can consistently hold their shape and work as a unit under pressure.