UNDER 9s

 

Made up from a number of schools, the U9’s have developed a strong group spirit based on humour, enjoyment and playing rugby with a smile on their face. With the squad now over 30 strong the tag belts have been banished and they are all keen for this years contact element of the game. Training on Sundays between 10 and 12 and playing teams around the county and in tournaments the players have ample opportunity to hone their skills under the guidance of a coaches that believe passionately in running rugby.

 

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This weeks attention seeker is Rucking and Mauling!!

 

What are rucks and mauls?

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You must bind properly in rucks and mauls

Rucks and mauls are just like playground free-for-alls, right? Wrong! They may look like a mass pile-up of bodies, but they're a really important part of the game. Just as crucial as scrums or line-outs really. So what are they for? Teams use rucks and mauls to reuse the ball after a tackle. Is there a difference between them? It all depends on whether the tackled player is held up by an opponent or goes to ground. ·  In a maul the ball is held off the floor and all the players must try to stay on their feet. ·  In a ruck the ball is on the ground and must not be handled by any of the players. Instead they use their feet to 'ruck' the ball backwards.

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Mind your head!
Blimey! Don't fancy getting stuck in one of those. Your safety is of utmost importance - but you can probably expect a few stud marks! The referee always keeps a close eye on what's going on. Rucks and mauls mustn't be collapsed on purpose. And you're only allowed to ruck the ball - not the players on the ground. So you must drive forwards over the ball. Leave it behind you for someone in your team to collect.!What else is the ref looking out for? When you join a ruck or a maul it must be from behind the back foot of the last player. If you join from the side you'll be penalised for offside. Also, you must remember to bind properly using your whole arm. Just placing your hand isn't good enough and you'll be penalised for not binding. Happy rucking and mauling!		    
 The Rucking Master Class Brian Moore

http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport1/hi/rugby_union/rules_and_equipment/7362487.stm

The Maul Master Class Brian Moore

http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport1/hi/rugby_union/rules_and_equipment/7362499.stm

    

 

 

Get in contact with the Under 9s coaching and management team