High Ball Catching: The Overlooked Skill That Wins Games

High ball catching doesn’t always get the same attention as passing, tackling, or kicking. But it should. For young players, it’s one of the toughest skills to master. The ball hangs in the air, opponents close in, and the pressure to secure it is huge. Get it right, and it can lift a team. Get it wrong, and confidence can take a big hit.

The good news? This isn’t about bravery alone. With the right approach, high ball catching can become a weapon. Players who learn this skill early stand out. They build composure under pressure, turn defence into attack, and earn the trust of their teammates.

The challenge for young players

Most young players are never shown how to deal with the high ball properly. Instead, they often:

• Wait under the ball, giving defenders time to pressure them.
• Panic in the moment, losing focus on their technique.
• Avoid the contest completely, worried about getting it wrong.

It’s not surprising. The high ball is unpredictable; it demands confidence, and mistakes are costly. But avoiding it does not solve the problem; it only grows bigger.

Why it matters

In rugby, the high ball is more than just safe hands. It is about momentum, territory, and belief.

For young players, learning to master it develops:

Confidence under pressure: knowing they can deal with one of the toughest moments on the pitch.

Composure in big games: stepping up when the team needs calm.

Trust from teammates and coaches: safe hands change matches, and players who secure possession are invaluable.

Whether in attack or defence, winning the high ball flips the game in an instant. It is a skill that makes players stand out.

What’s needed

The key is structured, repeatable practice. Random kicks in the garden will not do it. Players need clear steps that build the right habits until catching under pressure feels natural. That is how the fear of the high ball turns into an opportunity to shine.

The solution

That is why we created The High Ball Guide. Inside you will find clear video demonstrations and step-by-step drills designed to give young players the structure they need. Sessions are short, simple, and build confidence quickly, no matter the starting point.

For players who want to go further, The RTA Squad provides ongoing skill plans, regular feedback from Head Coach Ben, and the consistency to keep developing week after week.

With practice and structure, your child can transform a weakness into a strength, winning possession, lifting their team, and playing with confidence every time the ball goes up.

Get The High Ball Guide today!

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