Call Your Side: The Backward Pass by Voice

In groups of three, the ball carrier runs forward and may only pass backward to a teammate who calls out their side and name. It works on supporting behind the ball and communicating in tag rugby.

How to play

1. Explain the backward pass rule: the ball can never travel toward the opponents' try line (3 min).
2. Trios walking down the channel: two supporters behind, one on each side, call "Left, Lucy!" before receiving (4 min).
3. Same drill at a jog; the passer can't look back until they hear the call (4 min).
4. Add a defender who may only walk and try to pull a tag (5 min).
5. Final challenge: reach the try line with three passes and all three players talking (4 min).

Rules

• Forward pass: the ball goes to the other team or back to the start.
• No passing to someone who hasn't called.
• The defender only pulls tags; no grabbing or pushing.
• Each trio stays in its own coned channel.

Variations

Adaptations

• Deaf or hard-of-hearing students: the supporter raises the arm on their side as well as calling.
• Students with low vision: they gain the most from voice calls; let them pass, using a ball with a bell if available.
• Shy students: at first saying the side is enough; add the name as confidence grows.

Learning goals

• Always pass backward or flat.
• Support from behind the ball.
• Communicate out loud with the team.

Equipment for a class of 25

• rugby balls: 8
• cones: 16
• tag belts: 30

Teacher tip

Mark channels about 10 m wide and 25 m long. Common mistake: supporters running ahead of the carrier; stop them and ask them to see the carrier over a shoulder.

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