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In this episode of the Rugby Coach Weekly podcast, Dan Cottrell welcomes Dr. Mark Carroll, a sports coach and lecturer at the University of the West of Scotland, and a host of Labours of Sports Coaching. Together, they delve into the myths and realities of motivation in sports coaching.

This conversation challenges traditional approaches and offers fresh insights. From breaking down misconceptions about the coach's role as the ultimate motivator to exploring how self-determination theory and other frameworks can shape coaching practice, Dr. Carroll discusses the delicate balance between external motivators and fostering intrinsic drive, the nuances of psychological safety, and why context is king in every coaching decision.

Whether you're a grassroots coach or working with elite athletes, this episode is packed with thought-provoking ideas and practical advice to help you create environments that truly inspire performance.

📩 Connect with Dr. Mark Carroll on LinkedIn or explore his podcast, Labours of Sports Coaching, for even more insights.

To find out more about this podcast and many others, go to Rugby Coach Weekly

Also, tap into the library of 4,000 pages of activities, advice, tactics and tips to help you become the best rugby coach you can be!

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In this episode of the Rugby Coach Weekly podcast, Dan Cottrell discusses tackling in women’s rugby with Kathryn Dane, an international rugby player, sports scientist, and coach.

Kathryn, who has 23 caps for Ireland and is the coach for Ulster Women's Rugby and Old Belvedere, shares insights from her groundbreaking research into safety, skill acquisition, and performance in tackling. She discusses:

• The differences in how women develop tackling skills compared to men.
• Challenges unique to women’s rugby, such as late entry into the sport, limited resources, and coaching disparities.
• Findings from her research, including the effectiveness of techniques like the "wrap and clamp" for successful tackles.
• The psychological and tactical preparation required to overcome fear and build confidence in contact.
• Strategies for introducing and developing tackle skills progressively, ensuring safety and skill retention.
• The critical role of intentional coaching, creating supportive environments, and leveraging leadership within teams.

The findings are essential for anyone who is involved in the women’s game or keen on improving tackle coaching across all levels of rugby. Kathryn also shares practical tips for balancing safety, performance, and progression in training.

Find out more about Kathryn’s work on LinkedIn, ResearchGate, or Instagram. Dive deeper into the science of tackling with Sharief Hendrik’s rugby research roundup. Links are available on Rugby Coach Weekly.

To find out more about this podcast and many others, go to Rugby Coach Weekly

Also, tap into the library of 4,000 pages of activities, advice, tactics and tips to help you become the best rugby coach you can be!

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In this episode of the Rugby Coach Weekly Podcast, Dan Cottrell is joined by Adam Izzard, Head of Rugby and Head of Boarding at Stonar School. Adam shares his inspiring journey of building a rugby program from scratch at a small, co-educational school better known for its equestrian facilities than its rugby teams.

From turning a horse paddock into a full-size rugby pitch to coaching a first XV squad made up of players with little to no rugby experience, Adam’s approach to developing the sport is packed with lessons for coaches, teachers, and school leaders alike. He discusses the power of resilience, the importance of mass participation, and how structure and simplicity can help new players fall in love with the game.

Whether you’re looking for ideas to grow rugby at your school or inspiration for coaching players of mixed experience, this episode is a must-listen. Adam’s passion for the sport is infectious, and his story is proof that even the smallest schools can build a big rugby culture.

Listen now and discover:

• How to build a rugby program from scratch in a small school.
• Why structure and simplicity are essential for coaching beginners.
• Practical ways to increase participation and enthusiasm for rugby.
• The key life skills rugby teaches players beyond the pitch.

Tune in and be inspired to grow rugby at your school, no matter the challenges.

To find out more about this podcast and many others, go to Rugby Coach Weekly

Also, tap into the library of 4,000 pages of activities, advice, tactics and tips to help you become the best rugby coach you can be!