Podcast appearances and mentions of dan cottrell

Send a textIn this episode of the Rugby Coach Weekly podcast, Dan Cottrell sits down with Steve Grainger, Executive Director of Rugby Development at England Rugby, for an open and thoughtful conversation about the state of the community game.They explore how rugby is changing at grassroots level, from schools and clubs to coach education, workforce models, and the rise of T1 Rugby. Steve shares what has stayed stubbornly the same over decades, what has genuinely evolved since 2011, and where the biggest tensions now sit between tradition, participation, and sustainability.This is a wide-ranging discussion about systems, people, and trade-offs, grounded in the realities of Sunday mornings, volunteer coaches, and the long-term health of the game. Essential listening for anyone involved in coaching, club leadership, or rugby development.Five key takeawaysParticipation and sustainability matter as much as performance pathways in shaping the future of rugby.Community rugby thrives on resilience, not reliance, with clubs supported to solve problems locally.T1 Rugby is designed to reflect the core logic and values of rugby union, not just offer a non-contact alternative.Coach development is moving toward mentoring, peer learning, and flexible digital access rather than courses alone.The best future experience for young players will prioritise enjoyment, belonging, and learning over rigid tradition.  To find out more about this podcast and many others, go to Rugby Coach Weekly To find out more about our Partner Club offer CLICK HEREAlso, 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!

Send us a textWhat does it really take to align dozens of volunteer coaches, hundreds of players, and a whole club around one clear development pathway?In this episode of the Rugby Coach Weekly podcast, Dan Cottrell is joined by Charlie Farrell, Age Grade Rugby Director at Banbridge RFC, to unpack the thinking behind the club's new Coaches Playbook. Designed to guide player development from first contact to First XV, the Playbook goes far beyond drills and session plans.Charlie explains why Banbridge needed a shared framework, how the five pillars (Technical, Tactical, Mental, Lifestyle, Physical) were shaped by lived coaching experience, and the very real challenges of rolling out change in a large, multi-sport community club. The conversation explores volunteer buy-in, consistency versus creativity, session planning, player behaviour, and what “success” actually looks like in age-grade rugby.Key takeawaysA shared Coaches Playbook improves consistency and clarity in rugby coaching across all age groups.Effective player development combines technical skills with mental, physical, and lifestyle habits.Volunteer coaches need support, mentoring, and simple frameworks rather than rigid rules.Organised, game-based training sessions create better experiences for players and parents.Long-term development and retention are more important than short-term wins in youth rugby.Topics coveredRugby coaching frameworksPlayer development pathwaysGrassroots rugby coachingSupporting volunteer coachesCoach education and mentoringAge-grade rugby systemsBuilding club culture through coaching To find out more about this podcast and many others, go to Rugby Coach Weekly To find out more about our Partner Club offer CLICK HEREAlso, 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!

Send us a textIn this episode of the Rugby Coach Weekly podcast, Dan Cottrell is joined by performance coach Nash Cohen to explore what it really means to coach with conviction. From defining winning beyond the scoreboard to building trust under pressure, the conversation digs into principles, skill detail, and creating environments where players think, adapt, and grow.Nash is the Head of Player & Performance Development Jamaica UK and Programme Director Elite Rugby Academy.You can find out more about the work he does at:eliterugbyacademy.co.uk To find out more about this podcast and many others, go to Rugby Coach Weekly To find out more about our Partner Club offer CLICK HEREAlso, 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!

Send us a textWhat does real toughness look like in rugby?In this episode of the Rugby Coach Weekly podcast, Dan Cottrell is joined by Jack Heald, Director of Rugby at Barnes RFC and rugby professional at Felsted School, to unpack what toughness truly means in modern coaching environments.Drawing on over 15 years of experience across school, club, and national league rugby, Jack challenges the idea that toughness is about bravado or confrontation. Instead, he reframes it as consistency, resilience, and the ability to turn up and perform week after week, often while balancing full-time work, study, and life pressures.The conversation explores how tough, competitive training environments are created without tipping into chaos, how feedback should be handled to build confidence rather than erode it, and why core skill development is still the most overlooked driver of long-term player success.Key takeaways for coachesToughness is about consistency and resilience, not bravado or aggression.Competitive training environments must be intense but controlled.Players need psychological safety to make mistakes and keep learning.Feedback works best when it is individual, contextual, and proportionate.Core skills like catch, pass, and running straight underpin everything else.Long-term development matters more than short-term physical dominance.The most coachable players often outperform early physical standouts over time.Instagram: @jhealdcoachingLinkedIn: Jack Heald To find out more about this podcast and many others, go to Rugby Coach Weekly To find out more about our Partner Club offer CLICK HEREAlso, 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!

Send us a textWhat do you stabilise first when you inherit a team at the bottom of the table?In this episode of the Rugby Coach Weekly podcast, Dan Cottrell speaks with Ross Bundy, Head Coach of Leicester Tigers Women, about leading a rebuild in a high-pressure, semi-professional environment.Ross shares an unfiltered account of what really matters when results are hard to come by. Rather than chasing quick fixes, he explains why values, defensive standards, contact dominance, discipline, and law understanding became the foundation for long-term progress. The conversation explores how to be brutally honest while keeping belief high, how to simplify systems without lowering standards, and how to measure improvement when the scoreboard does not reflect the full picture.This is a grounded, practical discussion for coaches who are building from a low starting point and need clarity, patience, and conviction.PS, Ross is one of the youngest pro-coaches in the game right now - only 26!Key takeaways for coachesStabilise culture before tactics: Values on and off the pitch must be clear, protected, and visible, especially when results are poor.Honesty builds trust: Players respond better to clear, direct feedback than vague reassurance, as long as progress is recognised.Defence and contact set the floor: You cannot compete consistently without collision dominance, defensive connection, and discipline.Discipline is a technical skill: Many penalties come from passive contact and poor post-tackle behaviour, not ill intent.Law understanding creates advantage: Coaching the laws deliberately leads to smarter decisions and fewer “cheap” penalties.Simplify to accelerate learning: Fewer systems, executed well, beat complexity when time together is limited.Progress is more than the scoreline: Improvements in behaviours, effort, and standards often appear before results do.Small wins matter: Tackles made, penalties reduced, values shown, and cohesion built are all markers of momentum.Catch up with Ross on LinkedIn Or Instagram To find out more about this podcast and many others, go to Rugby Coach Weekly To find out more about our Partner Club offer CLICK HEREAlso, 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!

Send us a textIn this episode, Dan Cottrell is joined by Phil Kearney, Associate Professor at the University of Limerick and co-founder of an organisation focused on developing a positive community of practice in skill acquisitionTogether, they challenge one of coaching's most ingrained habits: starting session design with drills, outcomes, and end goals rather than with how players actually learn. Drawing on skill acquisition research, coach education, and applied examples from grassroots to performance sport, the conversation reframes what effective practice really looks like.Key points covered:Why engaging sessions can still produce very little learning.How coaches often mistake activity, enjoyment, and busyness for improvement.What skill acquisition actually tells us about how players learn and retain skills.Why starting with outcomes can distort session design and decision making.Practical principles coaches can use to design practices that transfer to the game.The best ways to engage with Phil are:University of Limerick (professional email):mailto: philip.kearney@ul.ieLinkedIn:Active in sharing work on skill acquisition, coaching practice, and applied research. Suitable for professional introductions, collaboration requests, and podcast or event invitations. To find out more about this podcast and many others, go to Rugby Coach Weekly To find out more about our Partner Club offer CLICK HEREAlso, 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!

Send us a textIn this Rugby Coach Weekly podcast, Dan Cottrell sits down with Darren Rea, John Peel, and Gareth Lewis to explore how inclusive SEND rugby has grown from a few Sunday sessions into a powerful community movement known as KatieFest.Together, they share how simple, values-led coaching has created safe, joyful, and challenging rugby environments for players with Special Educational Needs and Disabilities, while also bringing parents, carers, coaches, and clubs closer together. The conversation goes beyond drills and sessions to unpack confidence, belonging, routine, and why rugby is uniquely placed to adapt without losing its essence.From mash-ups with mainstream teams to national recognition and the ripple effect spreading across clubs and counties, this is a story about coaching with empathy, ambition, and belief. It is not about doing something “special,” but about making inclusion normal, visible, and lasting, and showing how rugby can genuinely be a sport for all.https://www.facebook.com/groups/1477604696958236/https://checkout.justgiving.com/c/3830429

In this week's episode of the Rugby Paper Roundup... Assistant Editor Ben Jaycock is joined by the Rugby Coach Weekly editor Dan Cottrell to reflect on last week's European Champions Cup action, this weekend's Prem fixtures, which includes a blockbuster Big Game 17, and how the sport's coaching is constantly evolving. Check out the Rugby Coach Weekly's YouTube channel here: @RugbyCoachWeekly You can subscribe to The Rugby Paper digitally or physically for more great content via this link (https://www.therugbypaper.co.uk/subsc...) OR by scanning the QR code at the end of the video! Remember to follow us across social media for more content and to keep up-to-date with the latest rugby news! X: https://x.com/TheRugbyPaper Facebook: / therugbypaper Instagram:   / therugbypaper  

Send us a textIn this Rugby Coach Weekly episode, Dan Cottrell sits down with Benny Williams, one of the leading voices shaping the girls' and women's game in England. As the Girls' PDG Coach Lead for England Rugby, Benny oversees the national U18s curriculum, supports coach development, and helps identify the next generation of Red Roses.Benny takes us inside the newly designed U16 and U18 curriculums, explaining how the RFU built a consistent, adaptable, and player-centred framework across the nine development centres. She unpacks key principles like playing to best space, ball and body always moving, and back in the game, and shares how coaches can help players develop adaptable, high-skill profiles that prepare them for future environments, from PWR to BUCS and beyond.We explore:• Why the RFU restructured the pathway and built a fresh curriculum• What “highly skilled and adaptable” really means in practice• How to use walking-through, scenario design, and manipulation to teach game understanding• The role of IDPs and the GROW model in creating truly personalised development• How clubs can use this framework to help more girls stay in the game and thriveFind out more about the programmes here:Foundational Athletic DevelopmentRugby Skills Development To find out more about this podcast and many others, go to Rugby Coach Weekly To find out more about our Partner Club offer CLICK HEREAlso, 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!

Send us a textHead coach Dan Cottrell is joined by Russell McClusky and Phil Greenaway for a lively, practical chat drawn from years across schools, clubs, and university rugby. As hosts of the Little and Large Podcast, they bring a wealth of experience from their times as directors of sport and heads of games.They tackle how to handle one-sided school fixtures without punishing your best players, why the referee's feel for the game matters, and smart ways to bring parents with you. The trio dig into development versus performance mindsets, what to do when outside “experts” chime in, and how simplifying set piece detail can create immediate gains. Real examples include yellow card simulations, pre-game parent emails with three clear focuses, and a lineout fix that worked the very next match. If you coach minis to seniors, you will leave with ideas you can use on Saturday.What to try first: Simple constraints and clear goals for uneven gamesWhere to invest: Off-ball organisation for quick winsHow to align: Pre-match parent comms with three weekly focusesWhen it sticks: Simplify set-piece for speed over shapeYou can contact them on the following emails:Russell russ@rpmsports.co.ukPhil  phil@pgreenawayltd.com To find out more about this podcast and many others, go to Rugby Coach Weekly To find out more about our Partner Club offer CLICK HEREAlso, 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!

Send us a textHow much talking is too much? In this episode, Dan Cottrell and Stuart James explore how coaches can make every word count. From the power of the short, purposeful chat to the art of explaining the how, what, and why in under a minute, they share practical ways to sharpen communication and boost player engagement.Discover why the best sessions often start with fewer words, clearer intent, and more playing time — and how taking the “temperature” of your group can help you adapt what you say (and when you say it).To find out more about this podcast and many others, go to Rugby Coach Weekly To find out more about our Partner Club offer CLICK HEREAlso, 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!

Send us a textIn this episode of The 50:22 Podcast, Dan Cottrell and Stu James explore why focusing on perfect technique can hold players back. Instead of trying to tick off isolated skills, they discuss how layering, context, and repetition help players understand what to do and when to do it. The aim is to move from drills to decisions, from repetition to recognition. Learn how to guide players toward real game sense and long-term progress in every session.To find out more about this podcast and many others, go to Rugby Coach Weekly To find out more about our Partner Club offer CLICK HEREAlso, 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!

Send us a textIn this episode of the 50:22 Podcast, Dan Cottrell and Stuart James explore how to use stress as a coaching tool, not through shouting but through smart, purposeful challenge. Discover how the right kind of pressure helps players build resilience, sharpen decision-making, and raise their own standards. Learn simple ways to add competition, intensity, and mindset training into your sessions without losing calm, connection, or control.To find out more about this podcast and many others, go to Rugby Coach Weekly To find out more about our Partner Club offer CLICK HEREAlso, 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!

Send us a textIn this episode of the Rugby Coach Weekly Podcast, Dan Cottrell speaks with Neil Davies – Yorkshire Chair of Coach Development, Director of Rugby at Doncaster Demons, and Lead for the South Yorkshire Girls PDG. Neil shares their unique approach to talent identification, explaining how Yorkshire's "Roses" model builds on the STAR framework to assess skills, resilience, and receptiveness in young players. He discusses self-nomination, taster days, individual development plans, and the balance between rugby basics and movement skills. Some key takeaways:Talent ID works best when it's holistic, not a box-ticking exerciseSelf-nomination builds ownership and confidence in young playersTaster days reduce nerves and showcase potential in real game settingsCatch-pass, tackle, and movement remain the non-negotiable foundationsPlayer journals and feedback in action drive real long-term growth To find out more about this podcast and many others, go to Rugby Coach Weekly To find out more about our Partner Club offer, there's a great webinar coming up: FIND OUT MORE HEREAlso, 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!

Send us a textIn this episode of the Rugby Coach Weekly podcast, Dan Cottrell sits down with Owain Roberts, Coach Education and Development Manager at the NSW Waratahs and a Level 4 coach. Originally from Swansea, Owain's journey has taken him from Welsh-speaking schools and UK teaching to the heart of Australian rugby.Together, they explore:How formative school and community experiences shaped his approach to coachingWhy humility, values, and belonging are central to developing coaches and playersThe evolution of coach education and the shift from drills to purposeful activity designInsights from his Level 4 research on game-based learning and “play with purpose”The unique challenges and opportunities for rugby in Australia, competing with bigger sports while growing grassroots numbers To find out more about this podcast and many others, go to Rugby Coach Weekly To find out more about our Partner Club offer, there's a great webinar coming up: FIND OUT MORE HEREAlso, 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!

Send us a textIn this episode of the 50:22 Podcast, Dan Cottrell and Stu James explore why great coaching starts with preparing yourself, not just your session plan. Stu leads the discussion, drawing on his expertise in different workplace environments to inform his thinking on training day scenarios.From setting the right mindset to creating simple reset tools when things go off track, learn how to arrive confident, stay adaptable, and lead with intention.To find out more about this podcast and many others, go to Rugby Coach Weekly To find out more about our Partner Club offer, there's a great webinar coming up: FIND OUT MORE HEREAlso, 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!

Send us a textWhat if your most impactful assistant coach is already on the sideline, holding a coffee and watching their child? In this episode, Dan Cottrell and Stu James reframe how coaches can engage parents with purpose. From team emails to ‘parent wranglers', discover how to create connection, reduce friction and build a shared culture that goes beyond the touchline. To find out more about this podcast and many others, go to Rugby Coach Weekly To find out more about our Partner Club offer, there's a great webinar coming up: FIND OUT MORE HEREAlso, 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!

Send us a textSmall-sided games aren't just chaos—they're your sharpest coaching tool. In this episode, Dan Cottrell and Stu James explore how to make games more purposeful by designing clear objectives, coaching one behavior at a time, and helping players make better decisions under pressure. Clear rules. Smart design. Intentional outcomes.To find out more about this podcast and many others, go to Rugby Coach WeeklyAlso, 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!

Send us a textHow You Start Changes EverythingIn this 8-minute episode, Dan Cottrell and Stu James dive into the power of the first five minutes of a session. From early wins to playful warm-ups without a ball, discover how to boost energy, build connection and benchmark your plan. Quick, practical and purposeful: start better, coach smarter.To find out more about this podcast and many others, go to Rugby Coach WeeklyAlso, 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!

Send us a textIn this powerful episode of the Rugby Coach Weekly podcast, Dan Cottrell sits down with Regan Sue, co-founder of Haka Rugby Global, to explore how Maori culture, adaptability, and people-first coaching have helped shape one of the world's most culturally rich rugby initiatives. Regan shares stories from over a decade of running 100+ camps across 50 countries, unpacking the deeper meaning behind the haka, the power of coaching with cultural intent, and the nuances of leadership, energy, and skill development.From managing chaotic changing rooms to instilling “mana” in every tackle, Regan explains how his coaching journey has always been rooted in adaptability and authenticity. With themes like the Warrior on the Edge and feet-fight-finish, he outlines how traditional values merge with technical excellence on the pitch and how every session balances smiles with sweat.Links:Insta: Haka Rugby GlobalFacebook: Haka Rugby GlobalInsta: Coach RegsFacebook: Coach RegsRegan has shared some key concepts:PatuHe is the co-founder of Haka Rugby Global with business partner Troy Nathan •⁠  ⁠100s camps, 50 countries, 30 Staff, 3000 players•⁠  ⁠Utilise Māori culture and rugby as a tool to help create future world leadersMaori culture as a way to grow players?We know where we come from•⁠  ⁠Turangawaewae: Where one stands, their place in the world: Belong•⁠  ⁠Whakapapa (genealogy line of ancestors)•⁠  ⁠Pepeha acknowledges: Mountain, River, Canoe, Tribes, Marae (meeting place), Family + MeRESPECT•⁠  ⁠He aha te mea nui o te ao? He tangata he tangata he tangata!•⁠  ⁠What is the most important thing in the world? It is the people, the people, the people•⁠  ⁠It's better to walk into a room go to the back and be asked to go to the front, rather than walk into a room go to the front and be asked to go to the back.When it's your time to lead, your people will call you to the front•⁠  ⁠Mana: Leader, Power, Strength, Service to the people… ”Prestige”•⁠  ⁠In many cultures a person's status in society is determined by their financial wealth•⁠  ⁠In Māori culture a person's status in the tribe is determined by their Mana•⁠  ⁠You gain Mana by how you perform on the field To find out more about this podcast and many others, go to Rugby Coach WeeklyAlso, 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!

Send us a textIn this episode, Dan Cottrell speaks with Leicester Tigers player and Peak Team Performance founder, Tiana Gordon, about the power of soft skills in coaching. Drawing on her academic background in neuroscience, psychology, and mental health, Tiana shares practical tools to help coaches improve communication, build genuine connections, and regulate their emotions under pressure. From managing difficult player conversations to creating inclusive environments that support the whole squad, not just the starting XV, this episode challenges coaches to go beyond the technical and rethink how they show up for their teams.To find out more from Tiana, here are the key links:Peak Team Performance:Website: www.peaktp.comLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/peaktp/Email: tiana@peaktp.comTiana Gordon: LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/tianagordon/Email: tiana@peaktp.com To find out more about this podcast and many others, go to Rugby Coach WeeklyAlso, 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!

Send us a textIn this episode, Dan Cottrell catches up with the globetrotting coach and former pro player Ben Herring. From being told he was too small for the 1st XV to wrestling with his dad for jackal strength, Ben shares a raw and inspiring journey through rugby, coaching, and personal growth.Now Director of Rugby at Newington College and host of The Coaching Culture podcast, Ben reflects on how being underestimated shaped his coaching philosophy, why finding your niche is key to player success, and what it really means to develop team culture without losing individuality. The conversation travels from Japan to New Zealand to professional club rugby, touching on topics like over-coaching, player psychology, bench dynamics, and how stoic philosophy inspired a team-wide cultural shift.A must-listen for any coach, educator, or rugby lover looking to lead with empathy and impact.

Send us a textIn this episode of the Rugby Coach Weekly podcast, host Dan Cottrell sits down with Dr. Michael Francis Pollin, a leading expert in coach development and coaching behaviours for player learning, development and performance. They dive into the fascinating world of creativity in rugby coaching, challenging traditional perceptions and exploring how creativity is not just a product but a process.Michael shares insights from his research and experience working with elite football and rugby academies, discussing how coaches can create environments that foster cognitive awareness, adaptability, and decision-making. From exploring the balance between structure and freedom to understanding the importance of silence and observation, this episode will leave you reflecting on your own coaching practices.Key takeaways:Creativity as a process: Understand why creativity in coaching is more of a cognitive process than just a final product or "wow moment."Balancing structure and freedom: Discover how to blend structure with autonomy to create an environment that encourages creative thinking.The power of silence: Learn why saying nothing can sometimes be the most powerful coaching tool.Observational skills: Improve your ability to notice subtle cues and patterns in player behavior and game situations.Questioning techniques: Explore how the right questions can guide players to think independently and creatively.Decision-making under pressure: Equip your players to make effective decisions in high-pressure situations by fostering problem-solving skills.Creative defense and attack: See how creativity applies not just to attacking play but also to defensive strategies.Coaching behaviors that inspire: Reflect on how your own coaching behaviors can either foster or stifle creativity.Future-proofing your coaching: Prepare players not just for the current game but for the evolving nature of rugby in the future. To find out more about this podcast and many others, go to Rugby Coach WeeklyAlso, 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!

Send us a textIn this episode of the Rugby Coach Weekly Podcast, Dan Cottrell sits down with Charlie Harrison, former professional player for Bath, Bedford, Rotherham and player/coach at Doncaster, ex-Head of Rugby at Marlborough College, and now coach of the U14s at Marlborough. They discuss the transition from coaching First XV to working with younger players, the importance of game-based learning, and how to develop players beyond just their physical attributes. Charlie shares insights into structuring training sessions, managing player progression, and fostering a long-term love for the game. Key Takeaways:Transitioning from First XV to U14s: Coaching younger players requires a shift from strategy-heavy sessions to focusing on skill development and game understanding.Game-Based Learning: Small-sided games and scenario-driven training help players develop decision-making skills in realistic situations.Balancing Structure and Creativity: Encouraging players to recognise space and opportunities rather than following rigid patterns leads to more effective, instinctive play.Managing Player Progression: Developing a long-term mindset ensures players grow beyond their physical attributes, helping both early and late bloomers succeed.The Role of Set-Piece Training: While vital at higher levels, younger age groups benefit more from prioritising open play, with set-piece elements introduced gradually.Keeping Rugby Sustainable in Schools: Making rugby fun, safe, and inclusive—alongside strong communication with parents—helps maintain engagement and participation. To find out more about this podcast and many others, go to Rugby Coach WeeklyAlso, 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!

Send us a textIn this episode of the Rugby Coach Weekly Podcast, Dan Cottrell sits down with Ben John, better known as The Rugby Trainer, to explore his unique coaching philosophy and the rise of his hugely popular online brand. Ben shares how he transitioned from professional rugby to skill-specific coaching, the impact of his viral content, and the importance of developing core rugby skills through creative and engaging methods.From insights on improving individual technique to the role of social media in coaching, Ben discusses how he engages young players and what makes skill acquisition sustainable over time. He also shares lessons from working with top professionals like Marcus Smith and delves into the importance of decision-making, body awareness, and confidence in player development.Key Takeaways:Skill development takes consistency: Just 10 minutes of focused training per week can make a big difference over time.Decision-making is key: The best players recognize cues and adapt their skills in real-time.Creativity in training matters: Fun, engaging drills help players improve without realizing they're working.Master the fundamentals: Catching, passing, footwork, and tackle technique should be practiced regularly.Social media as a coaching tool: Ben explains how platforms like TikTok and YouTube help young players refine their skills.Learn from the best: Insights from top pros like Marcus Smith and specialist coaches offer valuable lessons for all players.To find out more about Ben John's work go to the following links:https://www.therugbytraineracademy.com/https://youtube.com/@therugbytrainertv To find out more about this podcast and many others, go to Rugby Coach WeeklyAlso, 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!

Send us a textIn this episode of the Rugby Coach Weekly podcast, Dan Cottrell welcomes Jamie Taylor—Assistant Professor of Elite Performance at Dublin City University, Academy Coach with Leicester Tigers, and Senior Coach Developer at Grey Matters UK. Together, they dive into the practical aspects of coaching, discussing session planning, skill acquisition, and what it truly means to develop coaching expertise. Jamie challenges conventional ideas on coaching theory, explaining the importance of understanding "why" we coach the way we do and how we can design better learning experiences for players. Whether you're a grassroots coach or working at the elite level, this conversation will make you think more deeply about your coaching intentions and the impact you have on your players.Understanding coaching expertise: Why coaching is more than just following a template.The importance of coaching intentions: Moving beyond "what" we coach to "why" we coach it.Session planning insights: How to design training sessions that truly develop players.Exploration vs. exploitation in skill acquisition: When to encourage players to try new things vs. refining existing skills.How coaches can improve: The role of reflection, questioning, and learning from mistakes.Theoretical perspectives on coaching: A look at cognitive, ecological dynamics, and predictive processing approaches.Measuring progress in coaching: How to assess whether training methods are effective.Understanding how session design affects player development.Common coaching misconceptions: Why making training look good doesn't always mean it's effective.Jamie's personal coaching evolution: Lessons learned from years in coaching and academia. To find out more about this podcast and many others, go to Rugby Coach WeeklyAlso, 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!

Send us a textTackling is at the heart of rugby, but what truly makes a tackle dominant or a miss? In this episode of the Rugby Coach Weekly Podcast, host Dan Cottrell welcomes Oli Bishop, defence coach for Ealing Trailfinders Women and U23s, to break down the science behind effective tackling. Oli shares insights from his Level 4 RFU research, exploring the key characteristics of dominant tackles, the role of balance and momentum, and the phases of a successful tackle.From analysing foot placement to understanding pre-contact cues, this conversation is packed with practical takeaways for coaches and players alike. Key insights include:The importance of pre-contact positioning: How anticipation and approach impact tackle success.Why dominant tackles are most likely within two metres of the ball carrier receiving the ball.Hand placement strategies: When to aim for behind the knees versus the lower back.Leg drive and post-contact work: The key to finishing tackles effectively.How to coach players out of poor tackle habits and build their confidence. To find out more about this podcast and many others, go to Rugby Coach WeeklyAlso, 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!

Send us a textIn this episode of the Rugby Coach Weekly Podcast, Dan Cottrell sits down with Sam Halliday, a PE teacher and rugby coach working with the Oxfordshire U16 PDG squad and Brackley U14 girls. Sam shares his insights on building a thriving coaching environment, fostering player ownership, and creating opportunities for girls in rugby. He discusses the importance of peer-led learning, developing confidence in new players, and how structured yet flexible coaching can lead to lasting engagement. Whether you're coaching grassroots rugby or looking to refine your approach to player development, this episode is packed with practical takeaways.

Send us a textIn this episode of the Rugby Coach Weekly Podcast, Dan Cottrell speaks with Lewis Hatchett—former professional cricketer, mindset coach, and creator of the MindStrong Sport app. They discuss perfectionism in sport, its benefits and drawbacks, and how it affects athletes and coaches.Lewis shares his personal experiences with perfectionism, explaining how it can drive high performance but also lead to anxiety, self-doubt, and fear of failure. The conversation explores the impact of coaching environments, the role of perceived perfectionism, and how athletes can shift towards "excellencism"—striving for success without the pressure of unrealistic expectations.Key topics include:✅ How perfectionism impacts athletes and teams✅ The psychological cost of chasing flawless performance✅ Coaching strategies to build confidence, adaptability, and resilience✅ How to help athletes embrace mistakes as part of growth✅ Insights from Lewis' research on coaching, perfectionism, and fear of failureIf you're a coach, athlete, or parent looking to understand the mindset behind elite performance, this episode offers practical advice and research-based insights. Lewis also shares how coaches can contribute to his ongoing research.

Send us a textRaising funds for grassroots rugby can feel like an uphill battle, but Ed Flynn has cracked the code. In this episode of the Rugby Coach Weekly podcast, host Dan Cottrell sits down with Ed, a coach and fundraising powerhouse, to uncover the strategies that have helped his clubs thrive. From securing local business sponsorships to running hugely successful raffles and race nights, Ed shares his tried-and-tested methods for generating support, engaging the community, and ensuring clubs have the resources they need to grow. To find out more about this podcast and many others, go to Rugby Coach WeeklyAlso, 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!

Send us a textJoin Rugby Coach Weekly's Dan Cottrell as he sits down with Marlo Boyd, Bath Rugby's Development Officer, Bath University women's forward's coach and former Bristol Bears player. Marlo opens up about her unconventional journey into rugby, the lessons she's learned about managing emotions—both hers and her players'—and how emotional intelligence can foster trust and growth in a team. Together, they explore actionable strategies for coaches to incorporate empathy, manage emotional highs and lows, and build a safe yet driven environment for players to thrive. To find out more about this podcast and many others, go to Rugby Coach WeeklyAlso, 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!

Send us a textIn 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.

Send us a textIn 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 WeeklyAlso, 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!

Send us a textIn 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 WeeklyAlso, 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!

Send us a textIn this episode, Dan Cottrell sits down with renowned sports scientist and learning expert Mark Williams to explore some of the most controversial and misunderstood myths in sports coaching. Mark is a visiting professor at the School of Sport, Exercise and Health Sciences at Loughborough University. A world-leading expert in skill acquisition, Mark has authored 20 books and nearly 300 research papers and advised top sports organisations like FIFA, UEFA, and the EPL.His latest book is: The Best: How Elite Athletes Are Made with Tim Wigmore. Click the link to find out more.Drawing from Mark's thought-provoking LinkedIn series, they delve into key topics like the "constraints-led approach," the limitations of "skill transfer," and the role of "visual superiority" in player development.Should coaches be worried about myths in coaching, or do they offer a pathway to deeper insight? Mark addresses this head-on, revealing how scientific nuance often clashes with the simplicity coaches crave. Discover why coaching is more art than science, how to strike the right balance between "hands-on" and "hands-off" approaches, and why learning and performance aren't always as connected as we think.This episode will challenge your assumptions, sharpen your coaching instincts, and offer practical guidance on how to create more effective learning environments — whether you're working with novice players or elite athletes. To find out more about this podcast and many others, go to Rugby Coach WeeklyAlso, 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!

Send us a textJoin host Dan Cottrell as he sits down with Danny Powell, a skill acquisition developer and performance psychologist from Manchester Metropolitan University. Danny shares his expertise working with coaches, including GB Aquatics and Sale Sharks, to explore the art and science behind skill acquisition.In this episode, they dive deep into:What "skill acquisition" really means and why it matters for coaches.Practical approaches to helping athletes learn and refine motor skills.The balance between conscious and automatic learning processes.How coaches can evolve their own techniques through reflection and open-mindedness.Whether you're coaching at the grassroots level or working with elite athletes, this episode offers valuable insights into how coaches and athletes can grow together through experimentation, understanding, and a focus on the journey, not just the destination. To find out more about this podcast and many others, go to Rugby Coach WeeklyAlso, 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!

Send us a textIn this episode of the Rugby Coach Weekly Podcast, host Dan Cottrell sits down with Alex Hadley, Director of Rugby at Battersea Ironsides, to explore what it takes to build and sustain one of the world's largest community rugby clubs. Alex shares insights on balancing player availability and club culture, creating a positive and welcoming environment, and using flexible strategies to engage and retain players. The conversation delves into the challenges of running a successful rugby club in London, including managing training schedules, fostering player development, and finding effective systems to keep players motivated. Alex also offers practical advice on maintaining a consistent yet adaptable coaching language, nurturing passionate internal coaches, and the importance of reflection and continuous self-improvement. This episode is a must-listen for anyone looking to build a stronger, more connected rugby club. To find out more about this podcast and many others, go to Rugby Coach WeeklyAlso, 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!

Today Dan Cottrell from Rugby Coach Weekly is back on the Rugby Muscle Podcast, in this episode expect to understand ways to get better at rugby, including improving your skills, technical and tactical abilities and of course your strength and conditioning.This podcast also goes into the coaching science in why popular coaches are different from effective coaches, and how you might be able to tell the difference.There's also a discussion on the recent guidelines released from World Rugby about the male and female coaching styles and why World Rugby maybe made a mistake.Rugby Muscle Elite 1on1 Coachinghttps://rugby-muscle.com/elite/For The Rugby Athlete Blueprinthttps://rugby-muscle.com/14DRABTeam Rugby Musclehttps://rugbymuscle.programs.app/If you're a rugby coach, check out Dan's site which is a fantastic resource for drills, games, plays and knowledgehttps://www.rugbycoachweekly.net/Support the Show.

This podcast is dedicated to the memory of one of the guest's daughter, who passed away suddenly a few weeks after the recording. The Peel family have set up a donation page for Katie in support of FarmAbility. Here's a link.https://www.justgiving.com/page/katiepeelfarmabilityPlease listen to this inspiring journey of three coaches providing something amazing. It needs us all to reflect on setting up a SEND rugby programme.Dan Cottrell speaks to Darren Rea, John Peel and Gareth Lewis of Gosford All Blacks, Wallingford and Whitney rugby clubs.There are plenty of lessons for all of us, but specifically, we focus on:How to set up the programmeHow to make it a realistic and inclusive environmentEasy ways to involve everyoneMaking everyone confidentThe pathways beyond trainingThe joy of making rugby a meaningful place to express yourselfIf you want to get involved, please reach out:Gosford All BlacksWebsite https://gabrfc.rfu.club/Email youth@gosfordrugby.comContact- Darren Rea 07531118213Session times: Sunday 10 am to 11 amWitney WolvesWebsite https://witneyrfc.rfu.club/teams/witney-rfc-wolves-sen/470302/profileEmail theresaclark1234@aol.comSession times: Sunday 11 am to 12 noonWallingford WolvesWebsite https://wallingfordrfc.rfu.club/teams/wallingford-rfc-wolves/467870/profileEmail the_peels@me.comSession times: Sunday 11 am to 12 noon To find out more about this podcast and many others, go to Rugby Coach WeeklyAlso, 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!

Dan Cottrell chats to author and coach, J.P. Nerbun about his latest book, The Sports Parent Solution, Proven Strategies for Transforming Parents from Obstacles to Allies.We explore how coaches can get the most out of their relationships with parents. Sometimes they are super-supportive, and sometimes not!How do you get them onside to start with, speak to them, involve them and make them part of everyone's journey.We talk about the ways to have difficult conversations, how to build your value offering and chances to show leadership.J.P., as always, offers lots of evidence from either his own experience or from experts around this space.He has written three books: Calling Up: Discovering Your Journey to Transformational Leadership The Culture System: A Proven Process for Creating an Extraordinary Team CultureThe Sports Parent Solution, Proven Strategies for Transforming Parents from Obstacles to AlliesHe is host of the The Coaching Culture podcast.

Dan Cottrell tells how he came to love Rugby, how he loves the tactical side of the game but didn't enjoy tackling. He says he learned from amazing coaches whilst at Bath and Bristol playing with some true legends of the game. He says Rugby is full of people dedicated to helping others and that Rugby allows lots of different people chances to be the best version of themselves. He believes Rugby gives you the opportunity to find common ground with different people on different levels, giving you a richer life and better knowledge of yourself. Leigh Coulling stands in for Jay and is the first host to get interviewed by the guest, and James wishes he'd read the dress code.

Dan Cottrell cuts to the root with Brian Moylett from Mindset & Performance at Off-Field Rugby.They discuss playing in the zone from The Book On How You Become A Pro Rugby Player.Brian is a mindset and performance coach at off-field rugby. He also coaches university women's rugby and men's rugby in Canada. His philosophy is that he helps young players become more confident on the field, develop their self-belief and play in the zone. You can contact him at brianmoylett@gmail.com and visit his website www.offieldrugby.com The book is on sale now, The Book On How You Become A Pro Rugby Player.

Dan Cottrell speaks to Inside Running Academy boss, Mike Rogers. Mike, who's just finished a season in the US MLR with the New England Free Jacks talks openly about his experience coaching in both his homeland of New Zealand and the States.There is a very moving passage where we discuss vulnerability and authenticity. Mike's message about his relationship with rugby and his family will strike many chords with coaches.Here's what else we chatted about:Why we need to coach players to tackle higher, not lowerThe benefits of ball stripping in the tackleReviewing players more effectivelyLife balance for a coachHow we share as coachesWhat can businesses learn from rugby and vice versa?Inside Running are about to run their next amazing Coach Learning, number seven in the series. Link to sign up for Coach Learning Series 7 is here:https://forms.gle/c1EpjQaHQDHxkD5C8For more info:https://www.rugbyacademy.global/coach-learning-series/ Contact details for Mike:Email:  mike@insiderunning.comTwitter:  @InsideRunning

Dan Cottrell chats to Owen Woods, Community Rugby Coach for Gosport & Fareham RFC.Owen was previously in the Air Force for 4½ years and then the police for 17 years. In June 2021 he started up his full-time role to promote rugby and its core values, the vision being to put the club and values at the heart of the community.He has coached his son's rugby team for the last six years. He is a level 2 coach, a qualified referee working in schools in the local community delivering rugby sessions to children from 7 to 13.Owen was recently awarded the Gosport & Fareham RFC Coach of the Year Award. We discuss the following areas:How do you start sessions...exactly...in terms of what you say? Lots of coaches talk for too long, so how do you get across the pertinent information?How his background in the police force has informed his coaching.While we would all love to spend time hone skills in small groups, how can we be effective when we have lots of players at our sessions?If players are being disruptive, how do you make sure they don't spoil the session for everyone else.

This week's guest is Dan Cottrell. Dan is the editor of Rugby Coach Weekly. Dan is a practising RFU Level 3 coach and coach educator. He coaches with the Bristol Bears DPP programme, is the assistant coach with University of Bristol Women's team and is a coach mentor for Broad Plain RFC mini and juniors section. He was Head Coach of Swansea Schools U15 and has previously held coaching roles with the Young Ospreys Academy and as Assistant Coach with the Wales Women's Team for the 2010 World Cup. He was director of rugby for Cranleigh School, Surrey. Previously he played rugby for Bath and Bristol. During this chat we spoke about making sure us as coaches allow learning to happen during training sessions. We chatted about making sure your persona you display matches the message you are portraying as well as Player Empowerment and being the best version of yourself Dan can be contacted on the below website or via his socials https://www.rugbycoachweekly.net/ https://www.linkedin.com/in/dan-cottrell-9b699523/ https://twitter.com/RugbyCoachWeek https://www.facebook.com/RugbyCoachWeekly/ --- Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/bullys-rugby-coaching/message

Dan Cottrell chats to top sports psychologist Dan Abrahams about how even non-expert coaches can make a difference in their players' mindset.Dan Abrahams is the author of four best-selling sports psychology books and is the founder of both the Dan Abrahams Soccer Academy and The Sport Psych Show podcast.They talk around the following ideas:Can a coach really influence the mind of a player?What does a good environment and culture look like?How do we help build a high-performance mindset?Why we need to help our players understand how to perform, even if they are seemingly off their game?What does a bio-psycho-social approach mean to a coach and the player?How can non-expert coaches make a difference using sports psychological interventions?To find out more about Dan Abrahams, visit him here:danabrahams.com@DanAbrahams77

In this Podcast I'm joined by Dan Cottrell of Rugby Coach Weekly, a fantastic thinker about all things rugby.We go off on the deep end in this one and get stuck into why rugby players play the game, what happening to the game and what you as a rugby player or a coach can do about it.More  on Rugby Muscle:InstagramYouTubeFacebook GroupWebsite with ArticlesTHE Rugby Conditioning GuideRugby Muscle Elite 1on1 CoachingAll things Rugby MuscleSupport the show (http://rugby-muscle.com)

Dan Cottrell chats to Mike Ford. Mike has been coaching at the top of the professional game for over twenty years, with stints at England and Ireland rugby, Saracens, as head coach at Bath, plus coaching with the British and Irish Lions and RC Toulon.He also runs his own performance consultancy, which you can find out more about on his LinkedIn profile here.I really enjoyed Mike's clarity, especially around how he had to convince players and stakeholders about their approach at Bath.We discuss the following areas:The sacrifices of being a professional coachHow to build a system of playWhat player-led coaching really looks likeMentoring your own children (George as an international, Joe and Jacob as young coaches with championship team Doncaster and National League team Bury St Edmonds respectively)What detail matters as a coach

Dan Cottrell speaks to Ryan Martin about his journey to attack coach with Super Rugby team, the Melbourne Rebels.Ryan started out with Otago U10s, working his way up through the pro-game, including coaching with the New England Freejacks in the US pro-league.In the podcast, they discuss the following:Ryan's journey, what's changed and what's stayed the same.The principles that work with U10s and pro-players.How does skill acquisition work for Ryan.How do you coach the drop punt.How to narrow the focus in each session and use feedback effectively.The balance between discovery and direct instruction.How coaches like Wayne Smith provide inspiration.The role of theming in coaching.The way that a weakness was identified in passing for one player, and then how that was improved over six weeks.The performance playground.The use of the S-line to improve passing, and some of the essentials around passing.What you should work on from the very start when you are coaching passing.Making training realistic and the use of perception-action coupling.If you want to drop Ryan a line, his Twitter handle is @CoachRyanMartin where he also shares lots of great training footage.

Dan Cottrell is the Editor of Rugby Coach Weekly and comes with 25 years of coaching experience.Originally a teacher, he took on the Rugby Coach Weekly role full time in 2005 and now mixes it with coach education, tutoring, and coaching. He has had roles with age-grade rugby in Surrey and the Ospreys region, along with an assistant coach role with the Welsh Women.Twitter: @Dan_CottrellWebsite: www.rugbycoachweekly.net