Building a resilient mindset in junior rugby players

One of the toughest parts of playing rugby as a youngster is learning how to deal with setbacks like not being selected for a squad. At The RT Academy, we know how challenging it can be. Setbacks are part of the game, and how players respond to these moments is crucial for their growth and development.

In rugby, setbacks happen. Whether it’s missing out on selection, losing a game, or not quite performing on the day, building a resilient mindset helps young players bounce back stronger and keep striving to improve. It’s not just about dealing with disappointment in the short term, it’s about creating habits that will serve them well throughout their rugby journey.

Why mindset matters

Every rugby player, from beginners to pros, faces challenges. Sometimes it’s an injury, sometimes it’s being dropped from the squad and other times it’s just having an off day. The difference between players who thrive and those who struggle often comes down to mindset.

Developing a resilient mindset means understanding that challenges are part of the game. It’s not just about being tough, it’s about learning to adapt, grow and keep moving forward, no matter what the situation.

Embracing the rugby journey

Rugby is full of highs and lows. There will be moments of success, like scoring that try or earning a starting position. But there will also be setbacks, like being left out of the squad or missing a key tackle. How these moments are framed makes a huge difference to a young player’s mindset and confidence.

Here are three ways The RT Academy helps young players build a resilient mindset that will support them on and off the pitch:

1. Talk about challenges openly

When a player doesn’t make the squad or feels like they’ve let the team down, it’s important to acknowledge that it hurts. Even at the professional level, setbacks are part of the game, and every player experiences them.

At The RT Academy, we encourage open conversations about challenges. Sharing stories from professional players helps young athletes see that they are not alone. Hearing how others have faced similar situations, and come out stronger, can make it easier to move on.

2. Focus on what’s next

One of the most effective ways to build resilience is to look ahead rather than dwelling on what’s already happened. Encouraging young players to set small, achievable goals for their next training session or game shifts the focus from disappointment to personal growth.

It’s about creating a forward-thinking mindset. Instead of getting stuck on what didn’t go right, players learn to think about what they can do differently next time. Whether it’s putting in extra practice on passing accuracy or working on their tackling, the key is to keep moving forward.

3. Value effort over outcome

In rugby, effort counts for a lot. Whether it’s pushing through a tough training session or committing to regular skills practice, recognising hard work builds confidence and keeps players motivated.

At The RT Academy, we believe in celebrating progress rather than perfection. It’s about helping players see that each small step forward is part of a bigger journey. This approach not only builds resilience but also keeps the focus on continuous improvement.

Our ethos means when a player scores a try, we celebrate the effort and the work it took to get in the try scoring position, rather than just focussing on the outcome of the try itself. We recognise the hard work the player put in, how they supported play, read the game effectively and backed themselves, resulting in a great try.

The bigger picture

If there’s one message to take away, it’s this: setbacks are a natural part of playing rugby. The players who thrive aren’t the ones who never face challenges - they’re the ones who learn to get back up, reflect on what happened and keep pushing forward.

As coaches, parents, and supporters, we have the chance to shape how young players view these challenges. By fostering a mindset focused on growth and resilience, we can help them stay passionate about the game while building skills that will last well beyond the rugby field.

Supporting your child’s rugby journey

Helping young players build a resilient mindset is about creating an environment where they feel supported and encouraged to keep improving. It’s not about ignoring challenges; it’s about guiding them to find practical ways to respond and grow.

For more insights on building strong rugby habits and skills, check out our membership at The RT Academy. From skill breakdowns to mindset tips, we’re here to support every player’s journey, no matter where they’re starting from.