Local unions need to capitalize on technical training

Sale Sorovaki, FRU Rugby Development Manager

The FRU Development Unit hopes to increase the number of accredited coaches in the country.

“There’s certain criteria a rugby coach needs to meet to attain a Level 2 or Level 3 Coaching Certificate,” said FRU Development Unit Manager Mr Sale Sorovaki.

He said most struggle with the routine of completing diary entries, which is one of the major requirements before full accreditation is given them.

“The Level 2 Coaching Certificate also requires coaches to conduct performance analysis on their teams,” Mr Sorovaki added. He said coaching has become more technical nowadays and some modules have to be completed online.

“We are exploring creative ways to attract more participants as well develop other methods to deliver our courses in the community,” Mr Sorovaki added.  Local unions especially at provincial level have never really capitalized on these training opportunities.

“We are working to make this mandatory now so when it comes to selecting national coaches we have a wider pool to pull from,” he said.  Accreditation as well will ensure international rules and regulations are maintained and will automatically translate into lesser disciplinary and judiciary issues.

World Rugby has a lot of resources online, which coaches can use. FRU will also use its media channels to promote new courses when they become available.

“Gone are the days where coaches turn up to the field and tell their players to run around the field 20 times while he or she thinks of the next exercise,” Mr Sorovaki said.

“We are currently competing on the International arena and have won the sevens title twice and reached the World Cup quarterfinal twice, technical up skilling at coaching level will ensure we are developing “quality” and “complete” players so we increase our performance and remain consistent,” Mr Sorovaki explained.