Technical and tactical development in youth rugby

The technical and tactical development of young rugby players is an essential component to support athlete preparation and long-term development. This chapter summarises the relevant research and practical applications for the technical and tactical development within young rugby players. First, this includes a summary of different themes exploring this research area, including the measurement of technical and tactical qualities, technical and tactical development and the role of competition. Second, the chapter summarises the practical applications, considered from the evidence-informed practical implications offered within the research explored. This section highlights the lack of consistency of research considering technical and tactical development of players, whilst also offering practical implications across, (1) how coaches and practitioners can measure technical and tactical development over time, (2) coaching methods that support technical and tactical development and (3) modes of competition. The chapter concludes with a range of recommendations and implications for practice to best support technical and tactical development in the young rugby player.