Mastering the Offload: Contact Skills and Support Lines

1. Overview

Offloading in contact is a critical skill in modern rugby, allowing attacking teams to maintain momentum, bypass defensive lines, and exploit spaces before the defense can reset. This drill focuses on the ball carrier's ability to stay strong in the tackle, free their arms, and deliver an accurate pass to a supporting player. It also emphasizes the importance of support runners anticipating the offload and arriving at the right time and angle. Use this drill to build confidence in contact and improve continuity in attack.

2. Setup

Pitch Setup:

• Mark out a 20m x 15m grid using cones.
• For the progression, expand the grid to 30m x 20m.

Player Positions:

• Attackers: Groups of three. One ball carrier (e.g., Inside Centre - 12) and two support runners (e.g., Outside Centre - 13, Left Wing - 11).
• Defenders: Two defenders (D1, D2) holding tackle shields or in full contact gear, depending on the progression.

Equipment:

• 4-6 Cones
• 2-3 Rugby Balls
• 2 Tackle Shields (optional, for early progressions)

3. Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Starting Position: The ball carrier (12) starts in the middle of the 20m x 15m grid. The two support runners (13 and 11) position themselves 3-5 meters behind and slightly to the side of the ball carrier.
2. The Approach: On the coach's whistle, the ball carrier attacks the space between the two defenders (D1 and D2), who are positioned 3 meters apart.
3. The Contact: The ball carrier initiates contact with one of the defenders. They must step into the tackle, drive their legs, and turn their body to shield the ball from the defender.
4. Freeing the Arms: As the ball carrier absorbs the impact, they must actively work to keep their passing arm free. They should avoid going to ground immediately.
5. The Support Run: The support runners must read the ball carrier's body language. As the contact occurs, they accelerate into the space either side of the tackle.
6. The Offload: The ball carrier identifies the best-positioned support runner and delivers a pop pass or a push pass. The pass should be sympathetic, aimed at the space the runner is moving into.
7. The Finish: The receiving player catches the ball at pace and accelerates through the grid.

4. Key Coaching Points

• Strong Ball Carry: The ball carrier must attack the defender's weak shoulder and maintain a strong, low body position into contact.
• Leg Drive: Continuous leg drive is essential to stay on the feet and dictate the terms of the tackle.
• Ball Presentation: Shield the ball from the defender using the body, keeping the ball in two hands until the last moment.
• Communication: Support runners must communicate early and clearly (e.g., "Left!" or "Right!") to give the ball carrier options.
• Timing of Support: Support runners must not overrun the ball carrier. They should hold their depth and accelerate only when the offload is on.

5. Common Mistakes

• Forcing the Pass: The ball carrier attempts an offload when it's not on, resulting in a turnover or a knock-on. Coach players to take the tackle and present the ball if the offload isn't available.
• Poor Support Angles: Support runners are too flat or too deep, making it difficult for the ball carrier to find them. Emphasize holding depth and reading the play.
• Weak Contact: The ball carrier goes into contact too high or stops their leg drive, allowing the defender to dominate the tackle and wrap up the ball.

6. Variations & Progressions

• Progression 1: 3v2 Wave Drill: Expand the grid to 30m x 20m. Introduce a Fly-half (10) as the initial ball carrier. The 10 attacks D1 and offloads to the 12. The 12 then attacks D2 and offloads to the 13. This simulates multiple phases of offloading.
• Variation 1: Live Defense: Remove the tackle shields and have the defenders make live, full-contact tackles. This increases the pressure on the ball carrier to free their arms.
• Variation 2: Decision Making: Add a third defender who acts as a sweeper. The ball carrier must read the sweeper's movement to decide which support runner to offload to.

7. Age Adaptations

• Under 8 / Under 10: Focus on the fundamentals of the pass and catching. Use touch or tag rugby instead of full contact. Emphasize the concept of support play without the physical demands of the tackle.
• Under 12 / Under 14: Introduce tackle shields. Focus on the ball carrier's body position and leg drive. Encourage simple pop passes out of the tackle.
• Under 16 / Open: Full contact. Focus on complex decision-making, reading the defense, and executing high-speed offloads under pressure.