Why Footwork Holds Young Players Back (and How to Get It Right)

Picture this: your child gets the ball, sees a gap, and… stalls. They’re quick and strong, but their feet don’t fire, the defender squares up, and the moment’s gone.

That’s not a “talent” problem, it’s a footwork problem. And it’s fixable.

The real issue

Most young players haven’t been taught how to use their feet to create or close space. So they end up:

• Running straight lines that make defenders’ jobs easy.
• Slowing down when they try to step, losing all the momentum.
• Falling off balance on the change of direction, confidence takes a hit.

They know what they want to do; their body just isn’t set up to do it yet. That frustration compounds so skill dips, belief dips, performances dip.

Why footwork matters (for everything)

In rugby, space wins games. Sharp footwork creates it in attack and removes it in defence. When players move well, everything else lifts:

Attack confidence — step with speed, keep balance, beat defenders.

Defensive reliability — adjust fast, stay square, make dominant tackles.

Calmer decisions — when movement feels natural, the brain stays clear.

Get footwork right and passing, tackling and composure all get easier.

The fix (10 minutes that compound)

Random cone mazes won’t build habits. You need short, repeatable, game-like steps that train balance first, then speed into the step, then the explosive finish.

Our rule of thumb: 10 minutes, twice a week can turn footwork from a weakness into a weapon.

Focus on:

1. Balance through every step — hips under, chest tall, eyes up.
2. Speed into the move — don’t pause to step; accelerate through it.
3. An explosive final push — separate, don’t sidestep on the spot.

Coach’s tip: Count tight reps (6–8 at a time). Rest. Repeat. Quality beats volume.

The simple solution

Inside The Footwork Guide you’ll get step-by-step drills with clear video demos and a plug-and-play session plan so your child can practise with purpose, and actually see progress.

Want an even stronger rhythm? The RTA Squad gives players weekly skill plans, feedback from Head Coach Ben, and a structure that keeps progress ticking forward.

With consistent practice, your child will build the movement patterns that make attackers dangerous and defenders dependable. The kind of habits that show up in every match.

👉 Get the Footwork Guide now and give your child an edge this season.