IRFU Coaching Courses Attract Former Pro Players
August has come and gone, and with it a new cohort of Stage 4 coaches emerge on the path towards their coaching accreditation – with a little help from former professional players.
The IRFU Stage 4 National Coaching Courses were once again held in Johnstown House, Enfield, with coaches from around the country attending over three consecutive weekends (August 9-11 and 16-18 for head coaches and August 24-25 for assistant coaches).
With 40 head coaches, 27 assistant coaches and 25 tutors attending over the three weekends, the interactions were enthusiastic, informative and challenging with presentations both on the field and in a classroom setting.
A key feature of IRFU coaching courses is the participation of former professional players – either as speakers or indeed as they earn their coaching accreditation.
The most recent course saw former Ulster and Ireland winger James Topping tutoring on ‘Counter Attack’, while the recently retired Munster and Ireland back rower Denis Leamy was on hand to talk about ‘Restarts’.
Coaches from a range of Stage 4 teams, including some former professional players now turned to coaching, contributed in an open and engaged atmosphere and the feedback from all involved was very encouraging and positive.
Those coaches who apply to pursue the associated coaching accreditation will proceed from their course attendance to complete a series of requirements, including having some of their own coaching sessions observed, logging their coaching hours etc.
We wish all the coaches well in their continuing development and thank all of the tutors who contributed their personal knowledge and expertise to these events.