Coaching
Coaching
Introduction to Coaching
Coaching is an integral part of rugby. From mini rugby through to international rugby, a good coach can help players to develop to the best of their ability.
Introduction
The IRFU has produced an integrated model that summarises the relationships between relevant teams, player stages of development and the national Coach Development Pathway.
The model is a player-centred model based on the capacities of players at various stages, which is aligned to appropriate coaching courses for coaches to attend.
The IRFU advises that all coaches are accredited at the appropriate level and continue to develop themselves throughout their coaching participation.
Coach Development Framework
Planning
A coaching plan is in place which is aligned to the IRFU’s national plan.
Identification and Recruitment
A comprehensive knowledge of the coaching workforce in Ulster is maintained through a coaching database, which is updated regularly and includes coaching qualifications, as well as recording coaches’ attendance at continuing professional development events.
Education System
Coach Education courses from mini through to IRFU Level 1 are delivered throughout Ulster, with IRFU Levels 2 & 3 courses delivered nationally. Delivery of courses is based on identified need and our workforce is trained to deliver and assess at appropriate levels.
Education System (CPD)
Appropriate CPD is offered through workshops, seminars and other informal formats based on analysis of our coaches training needs and relevant to the Long Term Player Development stages.
Management of Coaching
Opportunities for deployment of coaches in affiliated clubs and schools are advertised on the Ulster Rugby website, as are coaching roles within the Ulster Player Development Squads and age grade representative teams. Further improvements to this function should be apparent as the coaching database information is updated and we seek to expand and engage more fully with our coaching volunteer base.
Communication
An e-magazine is distributed to all database registered coaches (2000+). Opportunities exist for club and school coaches at all levels to engage with coaching conferences, courses and committee meetings.
Recognition
Ulster Rugby appreciates the value of volunteer coaches across the Province and aims to have a comprehensive programme in place provincially, regionally and locally to provide regular internal and external opportunities to recognise and reward coaches and raise the profile of coaching.
For further information please contact:
Budge Pountney (Rugby Development Manager)
Coaching Courses
Ulster Rugby hosts a range of coaching courses and coach education sessions throughout each season, at various locations across the province.
Children Coaching Course
For coaches of Mini Rugby, players aged 5-12. Players are introduced to rugby for the first time through participation in games with reduced numbers, e.g 8, 10, 12-a-side.
Entry Criteria
- Participants must be a minimum of 16 years of age.
- Priority where required will be given to participants actively involved in Mini Rugby players.
Learning Outcomes
- Develop players' all-round skills and game-understanding with an emphasis on physical skills.
- Communicate literacy appropriate to the stages of development of each individual.
- Key objectives of this course is an understanding of the technical, tactical and physical modules.
- There is an emphasis on enjoyment and player development using best practice, the coach acting as a 'Guide' in a player-centred process.
Course fee - €90
Youth Coaching Award
Irish Rugby's Youth Coach course is an introduction to the 15-a-side game for coaches and helpers with limited experience in rugby. This course is suited to people working with players aged 12+.
Entry Criteria
- Participants must be a minimum of 16 years of age.
- Priority where required will be given to participants actively involved in Youth Rugby players.
Learning Outcomes
- Develop coaching skills in the role of 'Teacher'.
- There is a focus on safety and enjoyment. Suited for people working with pre/early teenagers and adolescent players.
- Emphasis on player development through best practice coaching.
Course fee - €90
Active Coaching Award
These free provincial workshops are optional choices for coaches who have already achieved the IRFU Children's Award, IRFU Youth Coach Award or IRFU Senior Coach Award.
You may wish to attend or complete one or more of these workshops to continue your own development and in doing so accumulate points towards the Bronze, Silver and Gold Active Coach Badge(s).
Enrolling in/attending any of these workshops will release the related content to you on the Active Coach Badge resource, and you must attend/complete the workshop in order to gain credit towards any further badges (silver or gold).
REMEMBER: All coaches with a completed IRFU Children's Award, IRFU Youth Coach Award or IRFU Senior Coach Award must also hold (at least) the Bronze Active Coach Badge to be considered 'Qualified' in any particular season. Therefore, although your coaching award does not expire, you must gain the Bronze Badge as a minimum each year you are actively coaching an appropriate team.