About this episode
Topics Recap of 2024 Rugby Development Summit Rusty introduced games like 50-22, Rondo, and the banking game Headband technique helped make players feel seen and improved team dynamics Emphasis on problem-solving and giving players autonomy in decision-making Coaches maintained contact with Rusty throughout the year, extending learning Rusty's Recent Coaching Experiences Traveled extensively: Iceland, Boston, Spain, Vancouver Island, Seattle, Amsterdam Upcoming engagements: Coaches Voice Conference (Vegas), Women in Rugby Conference (Denver) Implemented games like "Park the Bus" successfully in recent coaching sessions Plans for 2025 Rugby Development Summit Introduction of "Park the Bus" game, which focuses on defensive strategies in the 22-meter area Continued emphasis on coaching communication skills (e.g., 4-level framework: name, action, timing, visual cues) Focus on coaching individuals within team settings Exploration of "ball out of play" skills and match-day coaching techniques Rugby NorCal Updates Solidified position as largest state youth governing body in the country Hiring staff for competition management Working to professionalize and improve the spectacle of rugby events Next Steps Finalize agenda for 2025 Rugby Development Summit Coordinate with St. Mary's Gaels rugby team for demonstrations Rusty to prepare "Park the Bus" game and other new coaching techniques Encourage coaches to register at RugbySummit.com for the 2025 event worldrugbyshop.com rugbynorcal.org