Rugby Ontario is committed to growing the game through an increased emphasis on development. With our vision of Rugby for All we are focusing on ensuring that rugby is inclusive, enjoyable, accessible, and safe for all potential members. Given the crucial role of coaches in athlete and game development, Rugby Ontario has several initiatives in the works aimed at supporting the development of current and future rugby coaches and educators.
Becoming a Coach
Coaching offers a unique opportunity to make a meaningful impact by sharing a passion for sports, inspiring and mentoring athletes, and instilling life skills such as teamwork, discipline, and resilience. To become a rugby coach in Ontario, individuals must comply with a set of standards, complete a series of training programs, and gain their qualifications first. Learn more about this process here.
Coaching Development
As part of Rugby Ontario’s increased development efforts, the Club Development Series features select sessions on coach development-related topics. These free, virtual sessions are open to all and provide new perspectives and targeted education for members of our community.
In 2022, Rugby Ontario presented an 8-session Coaching Professional Development Webinar Series, featuring discussions on coaching skills, program building, coaching for diverse groups, age modifications, and safe play.
In 2020, Rugby Canada also presented a Rugby Development Series, featuring 20 professional and coaching development webinars on topics like the principles of defense and attack, gamification, and coaching the scrum.
Technical Game Leaders Program
As part of the Rugby Development Network, in 2024, Rugby Ontario began a Technical Game Leader (TGL) pilot project aimed at supporting a foundation of rugby educators, informed coaches, and thriving programs. Targeted for minor, beginner introductions, and non-contact (T1) rugby, this three-phase project works to build innovative, world-class curriculum resources and train game leaders in coaching development throughout our entire education and development pathway.
Coaching Resources
Coaching requires a strong foundation of understanding and reliance on available resources. Coaches should have a strong knowledge of the full spectrum of laws, regulations, safety and welfare policies, and proper processes. Some of these important resources include:
By creating familiarity and understanding with these Rugby Ontario resources, coaches are better able to adapt to situations and support all athletes.
TackleSMART
In 2023, Rugby Canada introduced the TackleSMART program, a branch of the PlaySMART initiative that assists coaches with teaching tackles. Aimed at reducing contact-related injuries, the TackleSMART program is a coaching development pathway that enhances knowledge and skills for teaching athletes new to contact rugby.
Rugby Canada TackleSMART Coach Reference Manual
World Rugby Coaching Resources
World Rugby has created a series of online training modules to help coaches understand the roles, skills, and key factors of rugby, and guide players with clear, effective steps. This includes Tackle Ready, Breakdown Ready, and Contact Confident resources that provide information and coach training that promote confidence, competence, and safety in all types of contact areas. It also includes resources on conditioning, coaching different age groups, and key tips for success.
Introduction to Conditioning for Children
Introduction to Conditioning for Youth