Rugby
Attacking
Offload in Contact
Rugby drill for attacking training sessions
Ball carriers practise presenting and offloading before contact is completed.
What This Drill Improves
This rugby drill is best for intermediate players who need focused work on attacking. It works well with 8 players and can be adjusted by changing the space, pressure, or scoring rules.
Setup
Two rows of tackle bags. Ball carrier runs a channel and offloads to support player.
Instructions
- Carrier hits first bag, takes contact, offloads to left support.
- Second ball carrier takes the offload, attacks next bag, offloads right.
- Continue for length of channel.
- Support players must be in legal position when receiving.
Coaching Points
✓ Ball is held in two hands until the last moment.
✓ Offload comes from the hip — not over the shoulder.
✓ Support must be at hips, not directly behind.
Common Mistakes to Watch For
- Players losing focus on the main coaching point.
- The drill area being too large or too small for the group.
- Progressing the drill before the basic pattern is clean.
Progressions: Make It Harder
→ Passive defender instead of bag.
→ Add a second defender — carrier must read who to offload to.
→ Live — carrier decides to go alone or offload.
Regressions: Make It Easier
Start without defenders, then add pressure once the movement pattern is clear.
Allow extra touches until players understand the timing.
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