how to kick properly at fullback?

Question
hi, my name josh and i have been playing rugby 4 3 and a half years now and brilliant at tackling, positioning, and my catching, but there just one problem it my kicking under pressure could you help me please?


Answer
For technical kicking skills I can't be of much help so I suggest getting with your coach and / or a local senior mens team to see if one of the guys will assist you. You can get a number of great DVD's online via rugby stores that coach kicking.

As for tactical kicking you basically need to go the same route but just make sure you define your needs. The skill of kicking the ball is learned differently to WHEN to kick the ball and WHERE to kick it.

All I can say is kick to spaces not other (opposition) players. Also in Rugby possession is king so kicking the ball away is a LAST resort. If the ball can be run then run it or pass it.

If an attacking line is fast coming up on you look behind it and go for a small pop kick over them for you or one of your team mates to run on to. Same goes for a grubber kick.

Another strategy is the across field kick. If you are on the left side of the field and the opposition has no players defending the right side of the field while your players are there kick across field for a team mate to run onto and score.

All these ideas require time to make a decision - if you are under pressure and do not have time there is no shame in keeping the ball in hand. There is no rule that you have to kick.