This course provides specialised training for rugby union’s pivotal half-back positions – Scrum Half (9) and Outside Half (10). These positions form the tactical heartbeat of any team, linking forwards and backs while controlling game tempo and decision-making.

Module 1: Understanding the Half Back Roles – This foundational module explores the distinct responsibilities and the interconnected relationship between the two half-back positions. Players learn the tactical importance of each role, their field positioning, and how they serve as the primary decision-makers and playmakers. The module covers the physical and mental attributes required for success, including excellent communication, game awareness, and leadership qualities that define elite halfbacks.

Module 2: Core Skills for Scrum Half (9) – This module focuses on the technical fundamentals specific to the scrum half position. Players develop rapid, accurate passing from the base of rucks, mauls, and scrums using both left and right hands. Training covers box kicking technique, sniping runs from the base, defensive positioning at breakdowns, and the critical skill of quick ball presentation. Emphasis is placed on speed of service, decision-making under pressure, and the ability to direct forwards effectively.

Module 3: Core Skills for Outside Half (10) – This module addresses the varied skill set required of an outside half. Players master different passing techniques (spin pass, pop pass, miss pass), various kicking styles (punt, grubber, chip, drop goal), running lines and footwork for beating defenders, and tactical kicking for territory and possession. The module also covers defensive organisation, 10-channel and goal-kicking mechanics, and mental preparation for pressure situations.

Module 4: Half Back Communication and Partnership – This module develops the crucial communication and understanding between the 9 and 10. Players learn call systems for plays and defensive structures, how to read each other’s body language and intentions, and strategies for managing game tempo together. Training includes recognising when to play fast versus slow ball, coordinating attacking moves, and managing on-field relationships with forwards and fellow backs to execute the game plan effectively.

Module 5: Reading the Game and Decision-Making – This tactical module sharpens the halfbacks’ ability to analyse and respond to game situations in real time. Players learn to identify defensive weaknesses and offensive opportunities, recognise when to pass, kick, or run, and read the opposition’s patterns and tendencies. The module covers making decisions based on field position, score, and time remaining, as well as adjusting tactics based on weather conditions and pitch conditions.

Module 6: Attacking Strategies and Plays – This module provides a comprehensive toolkit of attacking options for half-backs to exploit defensive vulnerabilities. Training covers set-piece moves from scrums and lineouts, phase-play attack patterns, creating and exploiting overlaps, using decoy runners effectively, and executing cross-field kicks and chip-and-chase opportunities. Players learn various strike moves and how to implement them based on defensive alignment.

Module 7: Defensive Systems and Positioning – This module establishes the halfbacks’ critical role in organising and executing the team defence. Players learn drift, blitz, and umbrella defensive systems, communication responsibilities for organising the defensive line, positioning at different phases of play, and counter-attacking from defensive situations. Emphasis is placed on making dominant tackles, managing defensive pressure, and recognising when to push up or drop back.

Module 8: Set Piece Execution – This specialised module focuses on half-back responsibilities during scrums and lineouts. For scrums, training covers feeding technique, reading the push, decision-making at the base, and defensive positioning opposite the opposition 9. For lineouts, players learn calling systems, timing and accuracy of delivery, running various backline moves off lineout ball, and defending opposition lineout attacks.

Module 9: Game Management and Leadership – This module develops the leadership qualities essential for controlling matches from the half-back positions. Players learn to manage the game clock effectively, communicate with referees professionally, make tactical decisions under fatigue, maintain composure during high-pressure moments, and motivate teammates throughout the match. The module covers reading momentum shifts and responding appropriately to retain or regain control.

Module 10: Physical Conditioning and Injury Prevention – This module addresses the specific fitness requirements and injury risks associated with half-back play. Training includes agility and acceleration drills, core strength and stability work, endurance conditioning for 80-minute performances, and flexibility training for dynamic movements. Players learn injury-prevention strategies for commonly affected areas, including shoulders, ankles, and hands, as well as recovery protocols to maintain peak performance.

Module 11: Video Analysis and Opposition Study – This module teaches half-backs how to prepare effectively using video analysis tools. Players learn to analyse their own performances objectively, identify patterns in opposition half-back play, recognise defensive structures and vulnerabilities, and study opposition kicking strategies and preferences. The module covers creating game plans based on analysis and using technology to accelerate learning and development.

Module 12: Mental Skills and Performance Psychology – This final module develops the psychological resilience required for high-pressure half-back play. Players learn visualisation techniques for successful execution, managing performance anxiety and pressure situations, maintaining focus and concentration throughout matches, and bouncing back from errors quickly. Training includes developing pre-match routines and rituals, building confidence through preparation, and cultivating the mental toughness that sets great half-backs apart