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The IRFU "Children's Coach Course" is for coaches of Mini Rugby players aged 5-12.
Players are introduced to the game of rugby for the first time through participation in games with reduced numbers of 8, 10, or 12-a-side.
The goal is to develop players’ all-round skills and game-understanding with an emphasis on Fundamental Movement Skills delivered through basic Technical, Tactical & Physical course modules.
There is an emphasis on enjoyment and player development using best practice, the coach acting as a 'Guide' in a player-centred process.
Entry Criteria:
Participants must be a minimum of 16 years of age
Please note coaches aged 16-18 years are limited to performing in an Assistant Coach role, under the direct supervision and guidance of an accredited Children’s Rugby coach aged 18+
Priority where required will be given to participants actively involved in coaching Mini Rugby players.
Course Title:
IRFU CHILDREN’S COACH COURSE
Course Date(s):
Thursday, October 15th and 22nd, 2026
Course Venue:
Castlebar RFC
Course Director:
Zoe Langsdale, zoe.langsdale@connachtrugby.ie
Module
Date
Time
Delivery method (on site or virtual)
Venue / online link
Welcome, Introduction and Effective Coaching – Duration 45 min
15/10
6:30 PM
On-Site
General Play: Attack and Defence - Duration 1hr 30 min
7:15 PM
Fundamental Movement Skills - Duration 1 hr
22/10
General Play – Contact - Duration 1 hr
7:30 PM
Lineout - Duration 30 min
8:30 PM
Scrum - Duration 30 min
9:00 PM
Practical Coaching Observations – Duration 2 hrs
Course Close
Award Requirements:
1. Pre-Course Survey
2. Complete 3 online (pre-course) modules:
· Children’s Coach Course Introduction
· Mini Rugby Refereeing module
· Quality Coaching module
· Concussion Awareness module
3. Complete Course Attendance
4. Practical Coaching Observation
5. Post-Course Survey
NOTE: Coaches have 2 Seasons to complete award requirements.
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