The Rugby Institute Coaching Podcast

What can club rugby coaches learn from a 2× World Cup–winning coach?In this episode of The Rugby Institute, we sit down with Wesley Clarke, a two-time Rugby World Cup winner, to break down the coaching principles that actually transfer to the club game.This is not theory-heavy coach education. It’s a practical conversation about what works on the training field, in the changing room, and on game day — especially when resources are limited and players are balancing rugby with real life.We cover:How to coach defense and tackle technique safely and effectively at club levelWhat “edge” really means — and how to create it without losing your playersBuilding culture and standards that players buy intoCoaching dominant contact without chasing tackle statsAdapting elite ideas so they work with club athletes, not professionalsWhy environment matters more than systemsCommon mistakes club coaches make — and how to fix themWesley shares honest stories from his coaching journey, including being fired early in his career, learning from elite mentors, and why simple, well-coached basics outperform complex game plans at club level.If you coach club rugby, school rugby, or community teams — and you want ideas you can apply this week, this episode is for you.===========================Connect with us! =============================Tik Tok: ➡︎ @rugbyinstituteInstagram: ➡︎ @rugbyinstituteX: ➡︎ @RugbyInst===========================#therugbyinstitute #rugbycoaching #defencedrills #pasingdrillsOur mission at The Rugby Institute is to support rugby coaches in developing their skills, growing the game, and making a lasting impact on their teams and communities.

In this episode of The Rugby Institute, we’re joined by Dave Ellis, one of the most experienced and respected rugby skills coaches in the game.With over 30 years in rugby, Dave has coached skill across every level — from grassroots and coach education to professional environments including Connacht Rugby, the Blues, and Bristol Bears in the English Premiership.Dave’s work focuses on helping players and coaches better understand what real rugby skill is, how it develops, and how to design training that actually transfers to the game. His global coaching journey and deep understanding of skill learning have made him a go-to resource for coaches around the world.Whether you’re a coach looking to improve your session design or a player wanting to develop game-ready skill, this conversation offers valuable insight from someone who’s spent a lifetime studying and coaching rugby skill.===========================Connect with us! =============================Tik Tok: ➡︎ @rugbyinstituteInstagram: ➡︎ @rugbyinstituteX: ➡︎ @RugbyInst===========================#therugbyinstitute #rugbycoaching #defencedrills #pasingdrillsOur mission at The Rugby Institute is to support rugby coaches in developing their skills, growing the game, and making a lasting impact on their teams and communities.

In this session, Aaron Dundon, coach at Leinster Rugby, breaks down the lineout maul defence systems he used with the Tasman Makos.This is a practical, coach-focused breakdown covering how elite teams set up, organise, and shut down opposition mauls from lineouts. Aaron walks through key defensive principles, player roles, coaching cues, and simple drills you can apply directly to your own training environment.Whether you’re coaching school, club, academy, or professional rugby, this session gives you clear, actionable insight into modern lineout maul defence.📌 Topics covered:– Lineout maul defensive set-up– Roles and responsibilities– Key coaching cues– Common maul problems and fixes– Training drills to implement immediatelyIf you enjoy deep-dive coaching content like this, make sure to subscribe to The Rugby Institute for more elite insights from coaches and players around the world.===========================Connect with us! =============================Tik Tok: ➡︎ @rugbyinstituteInstagram: ➡︎ @rugbyinstituteX: ➡︎ @RugbyInst===========================#therugbyinstitute #rugbycoaching #defencedrills #pasingdrillsOur mission at The Rugby Institute is to support rugby coaches in developing their skills, growing the game, and making a lasting impact on their teams and communities.

In this episode, we dive into the engine room of rugby—scrums, lineouts, and mauls—with one of New Zealand’s top emerging coaches. Hurricanes U20s coach Eugene Smith joins us to break down video footage, share practical progressions and drills, and unpack some of the latest coaching methods being used at the representative level. Whether you're coaching grassroots or high performance, there’s something here for every rugby coach looking to sharpen their set-piece knowledge.===========================0:00 Intro0:40 What does good scrum shape look like?1:50 What are we looking for?2:44 Static Hold Scrum Primer3:02 Power Extensions3:35 Isometric Holds 1v14:25 Advice for a strong footing?9:18 Chesting Out Drill - Tight Heads & Hookers Technique12:06 Individual Sled Work12:36 Mini Unit Sleds14:00 North/South Drill - Live 2v2 Scrum Drill16:20 4v4 Scrum Drill18:20 Tight Head Training Extras19:05 Dark Arts Tips - What can props to if someones cheating?21:44 Do scrum machines have a place in rugby today?24:30 Lineout Basics31:36 Lineout Primers for Lifters and Maul Creation32:31 How do lifters bind to jumper? High & Tight37:45 Lineout Race and Competition Drill29:13 Maul Drill with Pads41:45 How do you bind in the maul? Crutch Grip43:50 How do you create a strong team culture?52:17 Player Pathways 58:30 What are coaches looking for in players?1:03:13 Best piece of advice?1:04:46 How do you give feedback?=============================Connect with us! =============================Tik Tok: ➡︎ @rugbyinstituteInstagram: ➡︎ @rugbyinstituteX: ➡︎ @RugbyInst=============================#therugbyinstitute #rugbycoaching #scrum #lineout Our mission at The Rugby Institute is to support rugby coaches in developing their skills, growing the game, and making a lasting impact on their teams and communities.

Today we sit down with Amy Price—National Coach Developer at The FA and a leader in game-based learning for sport.Amy shares how video game design principles can transform the way we coach, helping players become better decision-makers, more adaptable, and more tactically aware. Instead of running isolated drills, Amy’s approach focuses on designing competitive, problem-solving environments that reflect the real demands of the game.Whether you're a coach, player, or just passionate about evolving the way rugby is taught—this conversation is packed with insights.===========================Connect with us! =============================YouTube: ➡︎ @therugbyinstituteTik Tok: ➡︎ @rugbyinstituteInstagram: ➡︎ @rugbyinstituteX: ➡︎ @RugbyInst===========================#therugbyinstitute #rugbycoaching #defencedrills #pasingdrillsOur mission at The Rugby Institute is to support rugby coaches in developing their skills, growing the game, and making a lasting impact on their teams and communities.

When should young rugby players start strength & conditioning? In this episode, S&C coach Tom Walsh breaks down the ideal starting age, when and why players or teams need an S&C coach, how to integrate S&C into rugby programs, and how gamification can improve coaching and player engagement.👉 Whether you're a coach, player, or parent—this one’s packed with practical takeaways.Check out his website here: https://anatomygaps.com/===========================Connect with us! =============================Tik Tok: ➡︎ @rugbyinstituteInstagram: ➡︎ @rugbyinstituteX: ➡︎ @RugbyInst===========================#therugbyinstitute #rugbycoaching #defencedrills #pasingdrillsOur mission at The Rugby Institute is to support rugby coaches in developing their skills, growing the game, and making a lasting impact on their teams and communities.

Welcome to The Rugby Institute! 🏉If you're a coach, player, or just love rugby, this is the place to learn, improve, and connect. We break down game tactics, training drills, strength & conditioning, and mindset—all with real, practical advice from top players and coaches.This isn’t just a channel—it’s a community. Drop your thoughts in the comments, share what works for you, and help others get better. Let’s grow the game together.===========================Connect with us! =============================Tik Tok: ➡︎ @rugbyinstituteInstagram: ➡︎ @rugbyinstituteX: ➡︎ @RugbyInst===========================#therugbyinstitute #rugbycoaching #defencedrills #pasingdrillsOur mission at The Rugby Institute is to support rugby coaches in developing their skills, growing the game, and making a lasting impact on their teams and communities.

Send us a text Are you a rugby player or coach wondering if you need an agent? In this exclusive interview, we dive into the world of rugby agents to uncover what they really do and how they can help you succeed. From landing contracts and navigating negotiations to shaping long-term careers, we discuss the value agents bring to players and coaches alike. Don’t miss this insider’s guide to understanding the role of a rugby agent and how they can take your career to the next level! 🎥 Subscrib...

Send us a text In this episode of The Rugby Institute, we dive into The Role of Fun in Rugby Strength and Conditioning with Grant Dearns, a rugby coach and strength and conditioning expert with over 20 years of experience. Grant shares his insights on how incorporating fun and games can enhance player engagement and performance, while also covering practical strategies for club coaches. We go in-depth on how we can make rugby clubs better, from improving player development to fostering a str...

Send us a text Video: https://youtu.be/pXJRQ_ru-5Y In this insightful video, we sit down with Dan Waenga, a former professional rugby player who has excelled at the highest levels, including Super Rugby and France's Top 14. Now contributing to the game as a referee in New Zealand, Dan shares invaluable coaching tips, lessons from his playing days, and his journey transitioning from player to official. Whether you're a coach, player, or rugby enthusiast, you'll gain unique insights from Dan's ...

Send us a text https://www.youtube.com/@therugbyinstitute In this episode, sports psychologist Zane Winslade shares three essential tips to help coaches take their game to the next level. Learn how to improve communication with your players, use breathing techniques to enhance focus and composure, and leverage theming to instill strong team values. These practical strategies are perfect for coaches looking to build better relationships, boost performance, and create a winning culture. Wheth...

Send us a text Join us for an inspiring conversation with Colin Bourke, former Māori All Black and Super Rugby player, as he shares his incredible journey through the world of rugby. In this episode, Colin dives deep into: His coaching ideas and philosophies. How he approaches developing players and teams. The unique experience of living and playing professional rugby in Japan. Whether you're a coach, player, or fan of the game, this episode is packed with insights and stories from one of ru...

Send us a text Check out The Rugby Institute on YouTube for more coaching tips and skills: YouTube: https://youtu.be/hsMrJjl2dZM Ever wondered what it takes to reach the top in professional rugby? In this podcast, Welsh international and powerhouse tighthead prop Ben Broster shares his incredible journey. From dominating scrums on the international stage to representing elite clubs across Europe, Ben reveals the skills, mindset, and life lessons required to thrive as a pro rugby player. Dis...

Send us a text https://www.youtube.com/@therugbyinstitute Join former All Black Gareth Evans as he shares invaluable coaching tips inspired by his time in Super Rugby. Drawing on years of experience in high-performance environments, Gareth dives into what it takes to guide elite athletes, build strong team cultures, and maintain peak performance. Whether you're coaching at the grassroots or professional level, these lessons from Gareth’s journey will help you elevate your game.💡 Key Topics ...