Learning outcomes

• Explain basic rules and scoring in rugby (15s and sevens).
• Identify main positions and roles on the field.
• Practice and perform basic skills: passing, catching, tackling safely, rucking, and simple kicking.
• Show team values: respect, discipline, communication and fair play.

What is rugby? (Short)

Rugby is a contact team sport where teams try to carry, pass or kick the ball over the opponent’s goal line to score. In Kenya, rugby is played widely in schools and clubs. Kenya is well known for its strong sevens team (Kenya Sevens) and many school competitions run across the country.

Key Kenyan examples

• Kenya Sevens — proud history in the World Rugby Sevens Series.
• Local clubs: KCB, Mwamba, Nakuru RFC, Kabras — many players start at school or local clubs.
• Famous Kenyan players to know: Collins Injera, Humphrey Kayange — good role models for young players.

Basic rules and scoring (simple)

• Try = 5 points (touch ball down in opponent’s in-goal area).
• Conversion kick = 2 points (after a try).
• Penalty kick = 3 points.
• Drop goal = 3 points (drop kick during play).
• Ball can be passed sideways or backwards only. Forward passes are not allowed.
• Tackled player must release the ball. Teammates form a ruck to keep possession.
• Offside: Players in front of the ball cannot participate until they are behind it.
• Knock-on: Dropping the ball forward is a mistake — scrum or turnover follows.

Field diagram (simple)

Tip: For school games, use markers and shorter field sizes (e.g., 60–80m) for safety and fun.

Positions (basic) — 15s & sevens differences

15s (full team): For learning, know these groups:

• Forwards (1–8) — strong players for scrums, rucks and lineouts (e.g., props, locks, flankers, number 8).
• Backs (9–15) — fast and skilled at passing and kicking (e.g., scrum-half, fly-half, centers, wings, fullback).

Sevens uses only 7 players: typically 3 forwards and 4 backs — faster, more space, great for school teams and tournaments.

Core skills with simple coach tips

• Passing: Use the spiral pass. Keep hips facing receiver, pass with both hands, follow through. Practice short and long passes in pairs.
• Catching: Watch the ball into your hands, elbows in, thumbs together for high catches. Soft hands on contact.
• Tackling (safe): Aim low at the hips or thighs, wrap arms, keep head to the side (never in front). Practise on soft ground and with pads initially.
• Ruck basics: After a tackle, get low, bind and push. Protect the ball and stay on feet if contesting it.
• Kicking: Start with short grubber kicks and place kicks. In sevens, kicking can create space.

Warm-up and sample 45-minute practice (school-friendly)

1. Warm-up (8 min): Jogging, dynamic stretches, sprint drills (2 x 20m), shoulder and neck mobility.
2. Skill stations (15 min):
   • Station A: Passing and catching in pairs (quick pass, 5m apart).
   • Station B: Tackling technique with tackle bags (controlled, correct head placement).
   • Station C: Ruck practice with cones and 2v1 contests.
3. Small-sided games (12 min): 7-a-side or 10-a-side on reduced field to practise space, passing and support play.
4. Cool down & reflection (10 min): Gentle jog, stretches, team talk — what went well, one thing to improve.

Safety and equipment

• Wear mouthguard always in contact sessions and matches.
• Appropriate boots (studs for grass) or trainers for hard ground.
• Use tackle pads or soft mats when learning tackling.
• Check the field for holes or stones. Hydrate — Kenya can be hot during training.
• Teachers/coaches should learn basic concussion signs and follow return-to-play rules.

Values: Character through rugby

Rugby teaches respect, discipline, teamwork, resilience and leadership. Kenyan schools often combine rugby with character education — encourage fair play, respect referees, and support teammates.

How teachers can assess learning (simple)

• Observe skills: correct passing, safe tackling, ruck behaviour (practical checklist).
• Small game performance: contribution to team (communication, positioning).
• Short written or oral test: rules, scoring and safety points (5–8 questions).
• Reflective journal: one paragraph after practice — what they learnt and one improvement.

Local pathways and opportunities (Kenya)

• Join the school team; participate in county and national school festivals.
• Attend club training (KCB, Mwamba, Nakuru, Kabras and others) to develop skills.
• Watch Kenya Sevens and local Kenya Cup matches to learn tactics and teamwork.
• Look out for talent scouts during school tournaments — opportunities for scholarships and club trials.

Quick practice drills (5–10 minutes each)

• Pass relay: Two teams race to complete 15 passes — promotes accuracy and speed.
• Gate catch: Partner throws ball through small 'gate' (cones) — improves catching under pressure.
• 1v1 evade: Attacker tries to beat defender using side steps; defender practices safe tackles.
• Ruck race: Two groups compete to secure ball over a stationary tackle — practices entry and support.

Short revision checklist

• Can you name 3 ways to score?
• Show a safe tackle on a padded target.
• Complete 10 accurate spiral passes in a row with a partner.
• Explain what a ruck is and what to do after you are tackled.