U16 players are physically and mentally ready for more complex rugby. The FFR's plan emphasises the development of tactical intelligence: reading the game, making decisions under pressure, and understanding team systems. Individual technique must now be applied within a team framework.

Match Play

Full contact rugby. Full 15-a-side or 10-a-side. Competitive league matches.

Key Principles for U16

1Develop structured attacking patterns (pods, channels)

2Introduce blitz and drift defensive systems

3Refine set-piece execution (contested scrums, full lineout)

4Develop kicking game basics (box kick, grubber)

5Build game leadership: players make decisions, not just the coach

Training Resources

Drills & Session Plans

Click "View full drill" on any card to see step-by-step instructions, coaching points, and an illustrative video.

FFR🎮 Game

Structured Attack — Pod System

Players learn to attack in organised pods of 2–3 players, creating multiple threats across the pitch.

30 min

12–18 players

Cones, Rugby balls, Bibs

World Rugby🎮 Game

Drift Defence System

Players learn the drift defensive system, where defenders move laterally to cover the attacking line.

25 min

12–18 players

Cones, Rugby balls, Bibs

RFU👟 Kicking

Kicking Game — Box Kick and Grubber

Players learn two essential tactical kicks: the box kick and the grubber kick.

20 min

8–14 players

Rugby balls, Cones

SRU🎮 Game

SRU Blueprint — Advanced Principles of Play

Scottish Rugby's Blueprint curriculum for U16: applying the four principles of play in a full-contact, competitive context.

35 min

14–22 players

Full pitch, Rugby balls, Bibs

UAR🎮 Game

Conecta Rugby (UAR) — Defensive Systems

From Argentina's Conecta Rugby platform: an introduction to organised defensive systems for U16, based on the Pumas' coaching methodology.

30 min

12–18 players

Cones, Rugby balls, Bibs

Toulouse🎮 Game

Toulouse Way — No-Ruck Chaos Game

The most advanced version of Toulouse's 'French Flair' philosophy: a full-contact game with no rucks, no mauls, forcing players to keep the ball alive at all costs.

25 min

14–22 players

Full pitch section (40m × 40m), Rugby balls, Bibs

Rugby Coach Weekly🎮 Game

Rugby Coach Weekly — The Standards Game

A competitive team game from Rugby Coach Weekly that develops standards of performance and accountability within the squad.

20 min

12–20 players

Full pitch section, Rugby balls, Bibs

More drills coming soon. Resources are continuously updated based on FFR, World Rugby, and RFU publications.

Cubs (U14)

All Age Groups

Colts (U18)