Coaching Aids
The Scrum The scrum is the method used in rugby to restart
the game after play has been interrupted. Eight players from each team,
known as the "Forwards" pack down in formation in an attempt to gain
possesion of the ball. A ninth player, the "Scrum half", throws the
ball into the tunnel formed between the two teams. The player in the
center of the front row is called the "Hooker". The hooker is
responsible to kick the ball backwards towards his own team thereby
gaining possession of the ball. When hooked the ball is controlled
backwards through the scrum by the second row forwards and ends up at
the feet of the "Number eight" player. The number eight controls the
ball at his/her feet until the scrum half is ready to take possession.
When ready the scrum half will pass the ball to the "Backs" to start an
attacking move and attempt to score on the opposition by carrying the
ball over the try line scoring points.
The Line Out The line out is required as a way to restart
the game should one of the players carry the ball over one of the
sidelines and out of play. During the line out, seven opposing forwards
line up perpindicular to the touchline. The first opposing players
stand five meters from the touchline and the other players on their
respective teams position themselves in a straight line behind them
extending from the 5 to the 15 meter line. The opposing teams thereby
form two lines one-meter apart from each other. One player, usually the
Hooker, must throw the ball down the center of the two lines of
forwards. While any player can attempt to jump and obtain possession of
the ball there are usually designated jumpers.
