Adapted Rugby: Simplified Official Touch
Adapted touch rugby: no tackling, a two-hand touch stops play, passes always go backward and each team gets six touches per possession. Students work on teamwork, passing on the run, support play and using space.
How to play
- Explain touch rugby rules: backward or flat passes only, a two-hand touch stops play, restart by rolling the ball back between the legs, and possession changes after the sixth touch (5 min).
- Running lateral passes in groups of three, moving 30 meters (about 33 yards) and returning along the side (6 min).
- Set up 2 fields of 40 x 20 meters with cones and form 4 teams of 6 in pinnies (2 min).
- 6v6 games: score a try by grounding the ball with your hands past the opponent's end line; the defense retreats 5 meters after each touch (8 min).
- Switch matchups and play a second 8-minute game (8 min).
- Play analysis: which support runs and passes created the most tries (6 min).
Rules
- No tackling or rough contact: touch with two hands on the waist, back or sides.
- Passes must go backward or flat; a forward pass means a change of possession.
- After the sixth touch, the ball goes to the other team at the spot of the touch.
- Safety: no touching the head or neck, and the ball carrier never leads with the shoulder.
Variations
Easier
Unlimited touches and the defense backs up only 2 meters after each touch.
Standard
Six touches per possession and the defense backs up 5 meters.
Harder
Full official touch rugby rules, including a substitution box and offside.
Adaptations
- Limited mobility: an adapted try zone where they can receive and score, or a referee role counting touches.
- Students who avoid contact or are shy: one-hand touch and a support role in the first games.
- Skill or fitness level: shorter field and subs every 2 minutes.
Learning goals
- Learn the basic rules of touch rugby.
- Pass backward accurately while running.
- Work with the team to move forward and support the ball carrier.
Equipment for a class of 25
- rugby balls: 8
- cones: 16
- pinnies: 12
Teacher tip
Forward passes are the constant mistake: fix it during the three-person drill by having receivers always run behind the ball carrier. Name a touch counter on each team so the referee doesn't have to do everything.
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