Interesting history, but slight dull anacdotes, 11 Feb 2003
I enjoyed this book. A number of the stories are interesting from a historical perspective. However it is a far from a complete history (it does not set out to be) and the stories themselves are often rather dull. The stories build up, and then you realise they go no further.

Still they certainly avoid hyperbol and I would recommend it to a big fan of Rugby Union (no Rugby League at all).

Excellent read - short stories of Rugby through the ages, 13 Dec 2001
An entertaining book of funny short stories. The type of book that you can 'dip' into night after night.
Although meant for fans of the game, it can be enjoyed by non-rugby fans.
It starts from the early days of Rugby Union with the (dis) organisations trying to set up a world-wide game in the days when travelling was long and difficult. It takes us through to the professional era with stories about the modern teams & players we all know.
We meet the "characters" of the rugby world throughout this book.
My personal favourite is the Scottish player who won his first cap just before going off to fight in WWII. After the war he was invited to play again - it was expected that he would have brought the jersey he had worn 6 years peviousily! (washed of course!)

Interesting history, but slight dull anacdotes, 11 Feb 2003
I enjoyed this book. A number of the stories are interesting from a historical perspective. However it is a far from a complete history (it does not set out to be) and the stories themselves are often rather dull. The stories build up, and then you realise they go no further.

Still they certainly avoid hyperbol and I would recommend it to a big fan of Rugby Union (no Rugby League at all).

Excellent read - short stories of Rugby through the ages, 13 Dec 2001
An entertaining book of funny short stories. The type of book that you can 'dip' into night after night.
Although meant for fans of the game, it can be enjoyed by non-rugby fans.
It starts from the early days of Rugby Union with the (dis) organisations trying to set up a world-wide game in the days when travelling was long and difficult. It takes us through to the professional era with stories about the modern teams & players we all know.
We meet the "characters" of the rugby world throughout this book.
My personal favourite is the Scottish player who won his first cap just before going off to fight in WWII. After the war he was invited to play again - it was expected that he would have brought the jersey he had worn 6 years peviousily! (washed of course!)

Helped with the Basic's, 01 Dec 2008
I have utilised some of the training drills in this book to teach Tag Rugby, generally only 10-15% of the drills can be used with tag rugby, but most will be used next year in contact. A good book to start off with

Interesting history, but slight dull anacdotes, 11 Feb 2003
I enjoyed this book. A number of the stories are interesting from a historical perspective. However it is a far from a complete history (it does not set out to be) and the stories themselves are often rather dull. The stories build up, and then you realise they go no further.

Still they certainly avoid hyperbol and I would recommend it to a big fan of Rugby Union (no Rugby League at all).

Excellent read - short stories of Rugby through the ages, 13 Dec 2001
An entertaining book of funny short stories. The type of book that you can 'dip' into night after night.
Although meant for fans of the game, it can be enjoyed by non-rugby fans.
It starts from the early days of Rugby Union with the (dis) organisations trying to set up a world-wide game in the days when travelling was long and difficult. It takes us through to the professional era with stories about the modern teams & players we all know.
We meet the "characters" of the rugby world throughout this book.
My personal favourite is the Scottish player who won his first cap just before going off to fight in WWII. After the war he was invited to play again - it was expected that he would have brought the jersey he had worn 6 years peviousily! (washed of course!)

Helped with the Basic's, 01 Dec 2008
I have utilised some of the training drills in this book to teach Tag Rugby, generally only 10-15% of the drills can be used with tag rugby, but most will be used next year in contact. A good book to start off with

Simply The Best, 28 Apr 2008
The comment on the cover from NZ head of coaching says it all. 'This is my bible'. And it is so easy to understand and use. I don't just follow training plans, I understand the game because of this book. Apart from technical things like SAQ books, there is no point in having other coaching books once you have this one.

Unlikely to be Bettered, 18 Jan 2005
This is the best book on coaching I have ever come across. I coach young children but so much of the book applies to 9-year-olds as much as it does to adults. It is my bible, and I return to it again and again. Apart from Jim Greenwood's brilliantly analytical approach it is a deeply inspiring book. Greenwood believes that you must aim high, and then shows you how it can be done.

Passion with sense, 02 Jan 2005
If you play or coach rugby with passion, then this book will keep your spirit for the sport alive - while giving you the opportunity to step-back from your game with a true strategist. The book is written very calmly and simply, taking you step by step through the techniques used for the different positions, while emphasising every player's contribution, while still keeping an eye on the overall patterns of play. I bought and read this book as a player and am now using it as a coach. Recommended to both.

Total Rugby: A different perspective, 20 Jul 2002
After reading this book for the first time, it revolutionized my ethos on coaching rugby. This book extolls the virtues of every player contributing to defence, attack and support play. In the season that I have coached in this new way, my forwards have become faster and more skillful and my backs have become stronger and better tacklers. This has unified the team, there are no-longer forwards and backs, they are all rugby players.

The best in its field - by far, 13 Jun 2000
For anyone involved in coaching Rugby I would unhesitatingly declare this to be an ESSENTIAL companion. Its literally packed with useful info, tips, suggestions and technical data. I've found it stimulating and eye opening. It really is a book that supplies endless encouragement and insight. Indispensible.

Interesting history, but slight dull anacdotes, 11 Feb 2003
I enjoyed this book. A number of the stories are interesting from a historical perspective. However it is a far from a complete history (it does not set out to be) and the stories themselves are often rather dull. The stories build up, and then you realise they go no further.

Still they certainly avoid hyperbol and I would recommend it to a big fan of Rugby Union (no Rugby League at all).

Excellent read - short stories of Rugby through the ages, 13 Dec 2001
An entertaining book of funny short stories. The type of book that you can 'dip' into night after night.
Although meant for fans of the game, it can be enjoyed by non-rugby fans.
It starts from the early days of Rugby Union with the (dis) organisations trying to set up a world-wide game in the days when travelling was long and difficult. It takes us through to the professional era with stories about the modern teams & players we all know.
We meet the "characters" of the rugby world throughout this book.
My personal favourite is the Scottish player who won his first cap just before going off to fight in WWII. After the war he was invited to play again - it was expected that he would have brought the jersey he had worn 6 years peviousily! (washed of course!)

Helped with the Basic's, 01 Dec 2008
I have utilised some of the training drills in this book to teach Tag Rugby, generally only 10-15% of the drills can be used with tag rugby, but most will be used next year in contact. A good book to start off with

Simply The Best, 28 Apr 2008
The comment on the cover from NZ head of coaching says it all. 'This is my bible'. And it is so easy to understand and use. I don't just follow training plans, I understand the game because of this book. Apart from technical things like SAQ books, there is no point in having other coaching books once you have this one.

Unlikely to be Bettered, 18 Jan 2005
This is the best book on coaching I have ever come across. I coach young children but so much of the book applies to 9-year-olds as much as it does to adults. It is my bible, and I return to it again and again. Apart from Jim Greenwood's brilliantly analytical approach it is a deeply inspiring book. Greenwood believes that you must aim high, and then shows you how it can be done.

Passion with sense, 02 Jan 2005
If you play or coach rugby with passion, then this book will keep your spirit for the sport alive - while giving you the opportunity to step-back from your game with a true strategist. The book is written very calmly and simply, taking you step by step through the techniques used for the different positions, while emphasising every player's contribution, while still keeping an eye on the overall patterns of play. I bought and read this book as a player and am now using it as a coach. Recommended to both.

Total Rugby: A different perspective, 20 Jul 2002
After reading this book for the first time, it revolutionized my ethos on coaching rugby. This book extolls the virtues of every player contributing to defence, attack and support play. In the season that I have coached in this new way, my forwards have become faster and more skillful and my backs have become stronger and better tacklers. This has unified the team, there are no-longer forwards and backs, they are all rugby players.

The best in its field - by far, 13 Jun 2000
For anyone involved in coaching Rugby I would unhesitatingly declare this to be an ESSENTIAL companion. Its literally packed with useful info, tips, suggestions and technical data. I've found it stimulating and eye opening. It really is a book that supplies endless encouragement and insight. Indispensible.

Top coaching aid, 04 Dec 2006
An excellent, book. The drills cover many aspects of the game and with a little imagination can be adapted to suited any age range and ability. Some of the drills do need to be read carefully and introduced slowly to younger players.

the best rugby drills book by far, 25 Aug 2006
As a newly qualified coach to Rugby i decided to buy several of the drill books on offer to help me through the first season.

Out of all the books i purchased only 101 Rugby Training Drills could offer me as a novice to coaching the help i needed to create exciting and worhtwhile drills.

the diagrams and explanations as well as the key helped to set up the drills and guidance in the explanation section is fantastic.

The book is that good that the club has bought the book for every coaching team in the club. what more can i say!

You've got to have it, 10 Mar 2006
I coach junior rugby and this book has developed me and the lads so much. It makes training sessions so much fun because the boys and I are experiencing something new every month.
The book doesn't go into any great detail as to the theory of each excercise, it simply lays out specific drills detailing their key benefits, with clear pictorial aids.
Get it and get it now.

It Does Exactly What It Say's On The Tin!, 16 Sep 2005
After reading this book I was inspired to improve my rugby lessons. This book provides clear instructions and the equipment needed. The skills range from the basic to the technical so your skills can develop over time.

If you are a seasoned coach or new to the game this book will suit all!!

Indispensible Coaching Aid, 25 Jun 2003
Coaching rugby places enormous demands on you to constantly provide variety to prevent players getting bored. The RFU's coaching materials are good, but will only last you a season or two before you've tried all of the drills they suggest.

This book picks up where the RFU materials stop, and the book's title is exactly what you get - an A4-sized soft-back book with 2 drills per page. They are clearly laid out - as good, if not better than the RFU - and there is sufficient description to enable you to understand quickly without the burden of too much detail. It's the kind of book you can browse over breakfast on a Sunday morning when you need inspiration before going to the training ground.

A great resource for coaches at all levels and age groups, including seniors.

Interesting history, but slight dull anacdotes, 11 Feb 2003
I enjoyed this book. A number of the stories are interesting from a historical perspective. However it is a far from a complete history (it does not set out to be) and the stories themselves are often rather dull. The stories build up, and then you realise they go no further.

Still they certainly avoid hyperbol and I would recommend it to a big fan of Rugby Union (no Rugby League at all).

Excellent read - short stories of Rugby through the ages, 13 Dec 2001
An entertaining book of funny short stories. The type of book that you can 'dip' into night after night.
Although meant for fans of the game, it can be enjoyed by non-rugby fans.
It starts from the early days of Rugby Union with the (dis) organisations trying to set up a world-wide game in the days when travelling was long and difficult. It takes us through to the professional era with stories about the modern teams & players we all know.
We meet the "characters" of the rugby world throughout this book.
My personal favourite is the Scottish player who won his first cap just before going off to fight in WWII. After the war he was invited to play again - it was expected that he would have brought the jersey he had worn 6 years peviousily! (washed of course!)

Helped with the Basic's, 01 Dec 2008
I have utilised some of the training drills in this book to teach Tag Rugby, generally only 10-15% of the drills can be used with tag rugby, but most will be used next year in contact. A good book to start off with

Simply The Best, 28 Apr 2008
The comment on the cover from NZ head of coaching says it all. 'This is my bible'. And it is so easy to understand and use. I don't just follow training plans, I understand the game because of this book. Apart from technical things like SAQ books, there is no point in having other coaching books once you have this one.

Unlikely to be Bettered, 18 Jan 2005
This is the best book on coaching I have ever come across. I coach young children but so much of the book applies to 9-year-olds as much as it does to adults. It is my bible, and I return to it again and again. Apart from Jim Greenwood's brilliantly analytical approach it is a deeply inspiring book. Greenwood believes that you must aim high, and then shows you how it can be done.

Passion with sense, 02 Jan 2005
If you play or coach rugby with passion, then this book will keep your spirit for the sport alive - while giving you the opportunity to step-back from your game with a true strategist. The book is written very calmly and simply, taking you step by step through the techniques used for the different positions, while emphasising every player's contribution, while still keeping an eye on the overall patterns of play. I bought and read this book as a player and am now using it as a coach. Recommended to both.

Total Rugby: A different perspective, 20 Jul 2002
After reading this book for the first time, it revolutionized my ethos on coaching rugby. This book extolls the virtues of every player contributing to defence, attack and support play. In the season that I have coached in this new way, my forwards have become faster and more skillful and my backs have become stronger and better tacklers. This has unified the team, there are no-longer forwards and backs, they are all rugby players.

The best in its field - by far, 13 Jun 2000
For anyone involved in coaching Rugby I would unhesitatingly declare this to be an ESSENTIAL companion. Its literally packed with useful info, tips, suggestions and technical data. I've found it stimulating and eye opening. It really is a book that supplies endless encouragement and insight. Indispensible.

Top coaching aid, 04 Dec 2006
An excellent, book. The drills cover many aspects of the game and with a little imagination can be adapted to suited any age range and ability. Some of the drills do need to be read carefully and introduced slowly to younger players.

the best rugby drills book by far, 25 Aug 2006
As a newly qualified coach to Rugby i decided to buy several of the drill books on offer to help me through the first season.

Out of all the books i purchased only 101 Rugby Training Drills could offer me as a novice to coaching the help i needed to create exciting and worhtwhile drills.

the diagrams and explanations as well as the key helped to set up the drills and guidance in the explanation section is fantastic.

The book is that good that the club has bought the book for every coaching team in the club. what more can i say!

You've got to have it, 10 Mar 2006
I coach junior rugby and this book has developed me and the lads so much. It makes training sessions so much fun because the boys and I are experiencing something new every month.
The book doesn't go into any great detail as to the theory of each excercise, it simply lays out specific drills detailing their key benefits, with clear pictorial aids.
Get it and get it now.

It Does Exactly What It Say's On The Tin!, 16 Sep 2005
After reading this book I was inspired to improve my rugby lessons. This book provides clear instructions and the equipment needed. The skills range from the basic to the technical so your skills can develop over time.

If you are a seasoned coach or new to the game this book will suit all!!

Indispensible Coaching Aid, 25 Jun 2003
Coaching rugby places enormous demands on you to constantly provide variety to prevent players getting bored. The RFU's coaching materials are good, but will only last you a season or two before you've tried all of the drills they suggest.

This book picks up where the RFU materials stop, and the book's title is exactly what you get - an A4-sized soft-back book with 2 drills per page. They are clearly laid out - as good, if not better than the RFU - and there is sufficient description to enable you to understand quickly without the burden of too much detail. It's the kind of book you can browse over breakfast on a Sunday morning when you need inspiration before going to the training ground.

A great resource for coaches at all levels and age groups, including seniors.

great book helped me in all areas of my game, 04 Oct 2000
this book helps you with dribbling, shooting, lay-ups slam dunk everything you can think of a great buy for basketball lovers

BASKETBALL, 13 Sep 1997
THE GAME AND ITS USEFULNESS

Interesting history, but slight dull anacdotes, 11 Feb 2003
I enjoyed this book. A number of the stories are interesting from a historical perspective. However it is a far from a complete history (it does not set out to be) and the stories themselves are often rather dull. The stories build up, and then you realise they go no further.

Still they certainly avoid hyperbol and I would recommend it to a big fan of Rugby Union (no Rugby League at all).

Excellent read - short stories of Rugby through the ages, 13 Dec 2001
An entertaining book of funny short stories. The type of book that you can 'dip' into night after night.
Although meant for fans of the game, it can be enjoyed by non-rugby fans.
It starts from the early days of Rugby Union with the (dis) organisations trying to set up a world-wide game in the days when travelling was long and difficult. It takes us through to the professional era with stories about the modern teams & players we all know.
We meet the "characters" of the rugby world throughout this book.
My personal favourite is the Scottish player who won his first cap just before going off to fight in WWII. After the war he was invited to play again - it was expected that he would have brought the jersey he had worn 6 years peviousily! (washed of course!)

Helped with the Basic's, 01 Dec 2008
I have utilised some of the training drills in this book to teach Tag Rugby, generally only 10-15% of the drills can be used with tag rugby, but most will be used next year in contact. A good book to start off with

Simply The Best, 28 Apr 2008
The comment on the cover from NZ head of coaching says it all. 'This is my bible'. And it is so easy to understand and use. I don't just follow training plans, I understand the game because of this book. Apart from technical things like SAQ books, there is no point in having other coaching books once you have this one.

Unlikely to be Bettered, 18 Jan 2005
This is the best book on coaching I have ever come across. I coach young children but so much of the book applies to 9-year-olds as much as it does to adults. It is my bible, and I return to it again and again. Apart from Jim Greenwood's brilliantly analytical approach it is a deeply inspiring book. Greenwood believes that you must aim high, and then shows you how it can be done.

Passion with sense, 02 Jan 2005
If you play or coach rugby with passion, then this book will keep your spirit for the sport alive - while giving you the opportunity to step-back from your game with a true strategist. The book is written very calmly and simply, taking you step by step through the techniques used for the different positions, while emphasising every player's contribution, while still keeping an eye on the overall patterns of play. I bought and read this book as a player and am now using it as a coach. Recommended to both.

Total Rugby: A different perspective, 20 Jul 2002
After reading this book for the first time, it revolutionized my ethos on coaching rugby. This book extolls the virtues of every player contributing to defence, attack and support play. In the season that I have coached in this new way, my forwards have become faster and more skillful and my backs have become stronger and better tacklers. This has unified the team, there are no-longer forwards and backs, they are all rugby players.

The best in its field - by far, 13 Jun 2000
For anyone involved in coaching Rugby I would unhesitatingly declare this to be an ESSENTIAL companion. Its literally packed with useful info, tips, suggestions and technical data. I've found it stimulating and eye opening. It really is a book that supplies endless encouragement and insight. Indispensible.

Top coaching aid, 04 Dec 2006
An excellent, book. The drills cover many aspects of the game and with a little imagination can be adapted to suited any age range and ability. Some of the drills do need to be read carefully and introduced slowly to younger players.

the best rugby drills book by far, 25 Aug 2006
As a newly qualified coach to Rugby i decided to buy several of the drill books on offer to help me through the first season.

Out of all the books i purchased only 101 Rugby Training Drills could offer me as a novice to coaching the help i needed to create exciting and worhtwhile drills.

the diagrams and explanations as well as the key helped to set up the drills and guidance in the explanation section is fantastic.

The book is that good that the club has bought the book for every coaching team in the club. what more can i say!

You've got to have it, 10 Mar 2006
I coach junior rugby and this book has developed me and the lads so much. It makes training sessions so much fun because the boys and I are experiencing something new every month.
The book doesn't go into any great detail as to the theory of each excercise, it simply lays out specific drills detailing their key benefits, with clear pictorial aids.
Get it and get it now.

It Does Exactly What It Say's On The Tin!, 16 Sep 2005
After reading this book I was inspired to improve my rugby lessons. This book provides clear instructions and the equipment needed. The skills range from the basic to the technical so your skills can develop over time.

If you are a seasoned coach or new to the game this book will suit all!!

Indispensible Coaching Aid, 25 Jun 2003
Coaching rugby places enormous demands on you to constantly provide variety to prevent players getting bored. The RFU's coaching materials are good, but will only last you a season or two before you've tried all of the drills they suggest.

This book picks up where the RFU materials stop, and the book's title is exactly what you get - an A4-sized soft-back book with 2 drills per page. They are clearly laid out - as good, if not better than the RFU - and there is sufficient description to enable you to understand quickly without the burden of too much detail. It's the kind of book you can browse over breakfast on a Sunday morning when you need inspiration before going to the training ground.

A great resource for coaches at all levels and age groups, including seniors.

great book helped me in all areas of my game, 04 Oct 2000
this book helps you with dribbling, shooting, lay-ups slam dunk everything you can think of a great buy for basketball lovers

BASKETBALL, 13 Sep 1997
THE GAME AND ITS USEFULNESS

G.J. Mason is Ben Wilsons best friend, 31 Jul 2008
Mason is Wilsons best friend and as a 21st prop hardly an athlete. Be ashamed Gareth be very ashamed. Writing bogus reviews to big up your pal and seducing innocents into spending their hard earned cash, shame, shame.

what a book!!!, 05 Jun 2006
i'm a pro athlete and have been for nearly 10 years. i had fallen into the trap of doing the same exercises over and over again. rugby fitness has opened my eyes to that and has led me to re-think my pre-season regime. here's to improvements at all levels. raise a glass to ben wilson. superb.

Interesting history, but slight dull anacdotes, 11 Feb 2003
I enjoyed this book. A number of the stories are interesting from a historical perspective. However it is a far from a complete history (it does not set out to be) and the stories themselves are often rather dull. The stories build up, and then you realise they go no further.

Still they certainly avoid hyperbol and I would recommend it to a big fan of Rugby Union (no Rugby League at all).

Excellent read - short stories of Rugby through the ages, 13 Dec 2001
An entertaining book of funny short stories. The type of book that you can 'dip' into night after night.
Although meant for fans of the game, it can be enjoyed by non-rugby fans.
It starts from the early days of Rugby Union with the (dis) organisations trying to set up a world-wide game in the days when travelling was long and difficult. It takes us through to the professional era with stories about the modern teams & players we all know.
We meet the "characters" of the rugby world throughout this book.
My personal favourite is the Scottish player who won his first cap just before going off to fight in WWII. After the war he was invited to play again - it was expected that he would have brought the jersey he had worn 6 years peviousily! (washed of course!)

Helped with the Basic's, 01 Dec 2008
I have utilised some of the training drills in this book to teach Tag Rugby, generally only 10-15% of the drills can be used with tag rugby, but most will be used next year in contact. A good book to start off with

Simply The Best, 28 Apr 2008
The comment on the cover from NZ head of coaching says it all. 'This is my bible'. And it is so easy to understand and use. I don't just follow training plans, I understand the game because of this book. Apart from technical things like SAQ books, there is no point in having other coaching books once you have this one.

Unlikely to be Bettered, 18 Jan 2005
This is the best book on coaching I have ever come across. I coach young children but so much of the book applies to 9-year-olds as much as it does to adults. It is my bible, and I return to it again and again. Apart from Jim Greenwood's brilliantly analytical approach it is a deeply inspiring book. Greenwood believes that you must aim high, and then shows you how it can be done.

Passion with sense, 02 Jan 2005
If you play or coach rugby with passion, then this book will keep your spirit for the sport alive - while giving you the opportunity to step-back from your game with a true strategist. The book is written very calmly and simply, taking you step by step through the techniques used for the different positions, while emphasising every player's contribution, while still keeping an eye on the overall patterns of play. I bought and read this book as a player and am now using it as a coach. Recommended to both.

Total Rugby: A different perspective, 20 Jul 2002
After reading this book for the first time, it revolutionized my ethos on coaching rugby. This book extolls the virtues of every player contributing to defence, attack and support play. In the season that I have coached in this new way, my forwards have become faster and more skillful and my backs have become stronger and better tacklers. This has unified the team, there are no-longer forwards and backs, they are all rugby players.

The best in its field - by far, 13 Jun 2000
For anyone involved in coaching Rugby I would unhesitatingly declare this to be an ESSENTIAL companion. Its literally packed with useful info, tips, suggestions and technical data. I've found it stimulating and eye opening. It really is a book that supplies endless encouragement and insight. Indispensible.

Top coaching aid, 04 Dec 2006
An excellent, book. The drills cover many aspects of the game and with a little imagination can be adapted to suited any age range and ability. Some of the drills do need to be read carefully and introduced slowly to younger players.

the best rugby drills book by far, 25 Aug 2006
As a newly qualified coach to Rugby i decided to buy several of the drill books on offer to help me through the first season.

Out of all the books i purchased only 101 Rugby Training Drills could offer me as a novice to coaching the help i needed to create exciting and worhtwhile drills.

the diagrams and explanations as well as the key helped to set up the drills and guidance in the explanation section is fantastic.

The book is that good that the club has bought the book for every coaching team in the club. what more can i say!

You've got to have it, 10 Mar 2006
I coach junior rugby and this book has developed me and the lads so much. It makes training sessions so much fun because the boys and I are experiencing something new every month.
The book doesn't go into any great detail as to the theory of each excercise, it simply lays out specific drills detailing their key benefits, with clear pictorial aids.
Get it and get it now.

It Does Exactly What It Say's On The Tin!, 16 Sep 2005
After reading this book I was inspired to improve my rugby lessons. This book provides clear instructions and the equipment needed. The skills range from the basic to the technical so your skills can develop over time.

If you are a seasoned coach or new to the game this book will suit all!!

Indispensible Coaching Aid, 25 Jun 2003
Coaching rugby places enormous demands on you to constantly provide variety to prevent players getting bored. The RFU's coaching materials are good, but will only last you a season or two before you've tried all of the drills they suggest.

This book picks up where the RFU materials stop, and the book's title is exactly what you get - an A4-sized soft-back book with 2 drills per page. They are clearly laid out - as good, if not better than the RFU - and there is sufficient description to enable you to understand quickly without the burden of too much detail. It's the kind of book you can browse over breakfast on a Sunday morning when you need inspiration before going to the training ground.

A great resource for coaches at all levels and age groups, including seniors.

great book helped me in all areas of my game, 04 Oct 2000
this book helps you with dribbling, shooting, lay-ups slam dunk everything you can think of a great buy for basketball lovers

BASKETBALL, 13 Sep 1997
THE GAME AND ITS USEFULNESS

G.J. Mason is Ben Wilsons best friend, 31 Jul 2008
Mason is Wilsons best friend and as a 21st prop hardly an athlete. Be ashamed Gareth be very ashamed. Writing bogus reviews to big up your pal and seducing innocents into spending their hard earned cash, shame, shame.

what a book!!!, 05 Jun 2006
i'm a pro athlete and have been for nearly 10 years. i had fallen into the trap of doing the same exercises over and over again. rugby fitness has opened my eyes to that and has led me to re-think my pre-season regime. here's to improvements at all levels. raise a glass to ben wilson. superb.

informative and useful-well recommended, 07 Dec 2007
I played rugby for a fair few years and a learned a great deal of stuff. Interesting and amusing: Matt from Blue Peter interacts well and the video "works" I recommend this to all Minis & Juniors and those interested in improving at school rugby.
Incidentally, Jonny's kicking coach has some excellent tips and where else are you going to get the opportunity to get a lesson from someone of this stature? worth every penny: very pleased

Interesting history, but slight dull anacdotes, 11 Feb 2003
I enjoyed this book. A number of the stories are interesting from a historical perspective. However it is a far from a complete history (it does not set out to be) and the stories themselves are often rather dull. The stories build up, and then you realise they go no further.

Still they certainly avoid hyperbol and I would recommend it to a big fan of Rugby Union (no Rugby League at all).

Excellent read - short stories of Rugby through the ages, 13 Dec 2001
An entertaining book of funny short stories. The type of book that you can 'dip' into night after night.
Although meant for fans of the game, it can be enjoyed by non-rugby fans.
It starts from the early days of Rugby Union with the (dis) organisations trying to set up a world-wide game in the days when travelling was long and difficult. It takes us through to the professional era with stories about the modern teams & players we all know.
We meet the "characters" of the rugby world throughout this book.
My personal favourite is the Scottish player who won his first cap just before going off to fight in WWII. After the war he was invited to play again - it was expected that he would have brought the jersey he had worn 6 years peviousily! (washed of course!)

Helped with the Basic's, 01 Dec 2008
I have utilised some of the training drills in this book to teach Tag Rugby, generally only 10-15% of the drills can be used with tag rugby, but most will be used next year in contact. A good book to start off with

Simply The Best, 28 Apr 2008
The comment on the cover from NZ head of coaching says it all. 'This is my bible'. And it is so easy to understand and use. I don't just follow training plans, I understand the game because of this book. Apart from technical things like SAQ books, there is no point in having other coaching books once you have this one.

Unlikely to be Bettered, 18 Jan 2005
This is the best book on coaching I have ever come across. I coach young children but so much of the book applies to 9-year-olds as much as it does to adults. It is my bible, and I return to it again and again. Apart from Jim Greenwood's brilliantly analytical approach it is a deeply inspiring book. Greenwood believes that you must aim high, and then shows you how it can be done.

Passion with sense, 02 Jan 2005
If you play or coach rugby with passion, then this book will keep your spirit for the sport alive - while giving you the opportunity to step-back from your game with a true strategist. The book is written very calmly and simply, taking you step by step through the techniques used for the different positions, while emphasising every player's contribution, while still keeping an eye on the overall patterns of play. I bought and read this book as a player and am now using it as a coach. Recommended to both.

Total Rugby: A different perspective, 20 Jul 2002
After reading this book for the first time, it revolutionized my ethos on coaching rugby. This book extolls the virtues of every player contributing to defence, attack and support play. In the season that I have coached in this new way, my forwards have become faster and more skillful and my backs have become stronger and better tacklers. This has unified the team, there are no-longer forwards and backs, they are all rugby players.

The best in its field - by far, 13 Jun 2000
For anyone involved in coaching Rugby I would unhesitatingly declare this to be an ESSENTIAL companion. Its literally packed with useful info, tips, suggestions and technical data. I've found it stimulating and eye opening. It really is a book that supplies endless encouragement and insight. Indispensible.

Top coaching aid, 04 Dec 2006
An excellent, book. The drills cover many aspects of the game and with a little imagination can be adapted to suited any age range and ability. Some of the drills do need to be read carefully and introduced slowly to younger players.

the best rugby drills book by far, 25 Aug 2006
As a newly qualified coach to Rugby i decided to buy several of the drill books on offer to help me through the first season.

Out of all the books i purchased only 101 Rugby Training Drills could offer me as a novice to coaching the help i needed to create exciting and worhtwhile drills.

the diagrams and explanations as well as the key helped to set up the drills and guidance in the explanation section is fantastic.

The book is that good that the club has bought the book for every coaching team in the club. what more can i say!

You've got to have it, 10 Mar 2006
I coach junior rugby and this book has developed me and the lads so much. It makes training sessions so much fun because the boys and I are experiencing something new every month.
The book doesn't go into any great detail as to the theory of each excercise, it simply lays out specific drills detailing their key benefits, with clear pictorial aids.
Get it and get it now.

It Does Exactly What It Say's On The Tin!, 16 Sep 2005
After reading this book I was inspired to improve my rugby lessons. This book provides clear instructions and the equipment needed. The skills range from the basic to the technical so your skills can develop over time.

If you are a seasoned coach or new to the game this book will suit all!!

Indispensible Coaching Aid, 25 Jun 2003
Coaching rugby places enormous demands on you to constantly provide variety to prevent players getting bored. The RFU's coaching materials are good, but will only last you a season or two before you've tried all of the drills they suggest.

This book picks up where the RFU materials stop, and the book's title is exactly what you get - an A4-sized soft-back book with 2 drills per page. They are clearly laid out - as good, if not better than the RFU - and there is sufficient description to enable you to understand quickly without the burden of too much detail. It's the kind of book you can browse over breakfast on a Sunday morning when you need inspiration before going to the training ground.

A great resource for coaches at all levels and age groups, including seniors.

great book helped me in all areas of my game, 04 Oct 2000
this book helps you with dribbling, shooting, lay-ups slam dunk everything you can think of a great buy for basketball lovers

BASKETBALL, 13 Sep 1997
THE GAME AND ITS USEFULNESS

G.J. Mason is Ben Wilsons best friend, 31 Jul 2008
Mason is Wilsons best friend and as a 21st prop hardly an athlete. Be ashamed Gareth be very ashamed. Writing bogus reviews to big up your pal and seducing innocents into spending their hard earned cash, shame, shame.

what a book!!!, 05 Jun 2006
i'm a pro athlete and have been for nearly 10 years. i had fallen into the trap of doing the same exercises over and over again. rugby fitness has opened my eyes to that and has led me to re-think my pre-season regime. here's to improvements at all levels. raise a glass to ben wilson. superb.

informative and useful-well recommended, 07 Dec 2007
I played rugby for a fair few years and a learned a great deal of stuff. Interesting and amusing: Matt from Blue Peter interacts well and the video "works" I recommend this to all Minis & Juniors and those interested in improving at school rugby.
Incidentally, Jonny's kicking coach has some excellent tips and where else are you going to get the opportunity to get a lesson from someone of this stature? worth every penny: very pleased

Awesome Resource, 02 Apr 2008
Thing Rugby is am amazing book for any coach, player or even fan of rugby. It will help you develop as a player or coach. This is a resource no team should be without. One of it's primary focus's is to help you learn to think and play as a team, from the coach down to the reserves. Definitely a must read for any Rugby Enthusiast.

Think Like A Pro, 18 Sep 2005
There can be no denying that Jim Greenwood is perhaps the most respected coach in Rugby Union. There is a reason for this, and his books show this. Both Total Rugby and Think Rugby are based on principles and thought processes, not applications.

Think Rugby is, I believe, the better of his two titles - particularly if you are a player. The book will make you think like a pro. Greenwood does not give you a couple of applied examples and explain them and leave you to it - do not think that this is a 'moves' book. Far better is it for this fact. He explains the thought processes to use, he makes you work things out, thereby they stick longer. He does give some examples and explains them allowing you to adapt them or make up your own by using the same processes. The insight it gives could make the most lumbersome prop into a valuable TDM (tactical decision maker).

I would recomment this book, it transformed me from a player/spectator/wannabe coach with some basic ideas of the game, into a thinking TDM who tries to manipulate weaknesses into the opposition as much as look for their original weaknesses.

This book is a must for all practising and budding coaches, 03 Jun 2001
The title of this book does what it says, it makes you "Think Rugby". As a coach it has opened my mind to a new coaching philosophy. It is a magnet of a book, it keeps drawing you back for more! I can't wait for pre-season training to commence so that I can practice the concepts described in this excellent book. Buy it!!

Interesting history, but slight dull anacdotes, 11 Feb 2003
I enjoyed this book. A number of the stories are interesting from a historical perspective. However it is a far from a complete history (it does not set out to be) and the stories themselves are often rather dull. The stories build up, and then you realise they go no further.

Still they certainly avoid hyperbol and I would recommend it to a big fan of Rugby Union (no Rugby League at all).

Excellent read - short stories of Rugby through the ages, 13 Dec 2001
An entertaining book of funny short stories. The type of book that you can 'dip' into night after night.
Although meant for fans of the game, it can be enjoyed by non-rugby fans.
It starts from the early days of Rugby Union with the (dis) organisations trying to set up a world-wide game in the days when travelling was long and difficult. It takes us through to the professional era with stories about the modern teams & players we all know.
We meet the "characters" of the rugby world throughout this book.
My personal favourite is the Scottish player who won his first cap just before going off to fight in WWII. After the war he was invited to play again - it was expected that he would have brought the jersey he had worn 6 years peviousily! (washed of course!)

Helped with the Basic's, 01 Dec 2008
I have utilised some of the training drills in this book to teach Tag Rugby, generally only 10-15% of the drills can be used with tag rugby, but most will be used next year in contact. A good book to start off with

Simply The Best, 28 Apr 2008
The comment on the cover from NZ head of coaching says it all. 'This is my bible'. And it is so easy to understand and use. I don't just follow training plans, I understand the game because of this book. Apart from technical things like SAQ books, there is no point in having other coaching books once you have this one.

Unlikely to be Bettered, 18 Jan 2005
This is the best book on coaching I have ever come across. I coach young children but so much of the book applies to 9-year-olds as much as it does to adults. It is my bible, and I return to it again and again. Apart from Jim Greenwood's brilliantly analytical approach it is a deeply inspiring book. Greenwood believes that you must aim high, and then shows you how it can be done.

Passion with sense, 02 Jan 2005
If you play or coach rugby with passion, then this book will keep your spirit for the sport alive - while giving you the opportunity to step-back from your game with a true strategist. The book is written very calmly and simply, taking you step by step through the techniques used for the different positions, while emphasising every player's contribution, while still keeping an eye on the overall patterns of play. I bought and read this book as a player and am now using it as a coach. Recommended to both.

Total Rugby: A different perspective, 20 Jul 2002
After reading this book for the first time, it revolutionized my ethos on coaching rugby. This book extolls the virtues of every player contributing to defence, attack and support play. In the season that I have coached in this new way, my forwards have become faster and more skillful and my backs have become stronger and better tacklers. This has unified the team, there are no-longer forwards and backs, they are all rugby players.

The best in its field - by far, 13 Jun 2000
For anyone involved in coaching Rugby I would unhesitatingly declare this to be an ESSENTIAL companion. Its literally packed with useful info, tips, suggestions and technical data. I've found it stimulating and eye opening. It really is a book that supplies endless encouragement and insight. Indispensible.

Top coaching aid, 04 Dec 2006
An excellent, book. The drills cover many aspects of the game and with a little imagination can be adapted to suited any age range and ability. Some of the drills do need to be read carefully and introduced slowly to younger players.

the best rugby drills book by far, 25 Aug 2006
As a newly qualified coach to Rugby i decided to buy several of the drill books on offer to help me through the first season.

Out of all the books i purchased only 101 Rugby Training Drills could offer me as a novice to coaching the help i needed to create exciting and worhtwhile drills.

the diagrams and explanations as well as the key helped to set up the drills and guidance in the explanation section is fantastic.

The book is that good that the club has bought the book for every coaching team in the club. what more can i say!

You've got to have it, 10 Mar 2006
I coach junior rugby and this book has developed me and the lads so much. It makes training sessions so much fun because the boys and I are experiencing something new every month.
The book doesn't go into any great detail as to the theory of each excercise, it simply lays out specific drills detailing their key benefits, with clear pictorial aids.
Get it and get it now.

It Does Exactly What It Say's On The Tin!, 16 Sep 2005
After reading this book I was inspired to improve my rugby lessons. This book provides clear instructions and the equipment needed. The skills range from the basic to the technical so your skills can develop over time.

If you are a seasoned coach or new to the game this book will suit all!!

Indispensible Coaching Aid, 25 Jun 2003
Coaching rugby places enormous demands on you to constantly provide variety to prevent players getting bored. The RFU's coaching materials are good, but will only last you a season or two before you've tried all of the drills they suggest.

This book picks up where the RFU materials stop, and the book's title is exactly what you get - an A4-sized soft-back book with 2 drills per page. They are clearly laid out - as good, if not better than the RFU - and there is sufficient description to enable you to understand quickly without the burden of too much detail. It's the kind of book you can browse over breakfast on a Sunday morning when you need inspiration before going to the training ground.

A great resource for coaches at all levels and age groups, including seniors.

great book helped me in all areas of my game, 04 Oct 2000
this book helps you with dribbling, shooting, lay-ups slam dunk everything you can think of a great buy for basketball lovers

BASKETBALL, 13 Sep 1997
THE GAME AND ITS USEFULNESS

G.J. Mason is Ben Wilsons best friend, 31 Jul 2008
Mason is Wilsons best friend and as a 21st prop hardly an athlete. Be ashamed Gareth be very ashamed. Writing bogus reviews to big up your pal and seducing innocents into spending their hard earned cash, shame, shame.

what a book!!!, 05 Jun 2006
i'm a pro athlete and have been for nearly 10 years. i had fallen into the trap of doing the same exercises over and over again. rugby fitness has opened my eyes to that and has led me to re-think my pre-season regime. here's to improvements at all levels. raise a glass to ben wilson. superb.

informative and useful-well recommended, 07 Dec 2007
I played rugby for a fair few years and a learned a great deal of stuff. Interesting and amusing: Matt from Blue Peter interacts well and the video "works" I recommend this to all Minis & Juniors and those interested in improving at school rugby.
Incidentally, Jonny's kicking coach has some excellent tips and where else are you going to get the opportunity to get a lesson from someone of this stature? worth every penny: very pleased

Awesome Resource, 02 Apr 2008
Thing Rugby is am amazing book for any coach, player or even fan of rugby. It will help you develop as a player or coach. This is a resource no team should be without. One of it's primary focus's is to help you learn to think and play as a team, from the coach down to the reserves. Definitely a must read for any Rugby Enthusiast.

Think Like A Pro, 18 Sep 2005
There can be no denying that Jim Greenwood is perhaps the most respected coach in Rugby Union. There is a reason for this, and his books show this. Both Total Rugby and Think Rugby are based on principles and thought processes, not applications.

Think Rugby is, I believe, the better of his two titles - particularly if you are a player. The book will make you think like a pro. Greenwood does not give you a couple of applied examples and explain them and leave you to it - do not think that this is a 'moves' book. Far better is it for this fact. He explains the thought processes to use, he makes you work things out, thereby they stick longer. He does give some examples and explains them allowing you to adapt them or make up your own by using the same processes. The insight it gives could make the most lumbersome prop into a valuable TDM (tactical decision maker).

I would recomment this book, it transformed me from a player/spectator/wannabe coach with some basic ideas of the game, into a thinking TDM who tries to manipulate weaknesses into the opposition as much as look for their original weaknesses.

This book is a must for all practising and budding coaches, 03 Jun 2001
The title of this book does what it says, it makes you "Think Rugby". As a coach it has opened my mind to a new coaching philosophy. It is a magnet of a book, it keeps drawing you back for more! I can't wait for pre-season training to commence so that I can practice the concepts described in this excellent book. Buy it!!

nothing more than a picture gallery, 27 Feb 2002
i would categorise this book as something you would give to a first time visitor to our planet who is interested in rugby. it does nothing to improve your game, it simply tells you what rugby is. if you are an experienced player then stay clear

A great book for beginers and amateurs, 12 Jul 2001
I bought this book to help pick up on some of the fundamentals I had forgotten over 6 years of having not played. Packed full of great action pics and easy to follow rules section, makes this book a must for those wishing to gain an insight into the game.

A book that promises much but fails to deliver - just, 15 Mar 2001
I hoped that a book co-authored by one of rugby's best coaches would provide an insight into what is needed to bring out the best in players. Instead this book provides an excellent summary of all aspects of the game of rugby, including a simplified guide to the laws of the game, but fails to deliver that important guidance on how to coach players for today's rugby. As a result the book is a bit of a disappointment for anyone who has been involved with the game for a while but for the enthusiastic newcomer the simple and enthusiastic approach will appeal. Photographs are used well to illustrate the points made and the overall style makes the book one made for dipping in and out of.

Interesting history, but slight dull anacdotes, 11 Feb 2003
I enjoyed this book. A number of the stories are interesting from a historical perspective. However it is a far from a complete history (it does not set out to be) and the stories themselves are often rather dull. The stories build up, and then you realise they go no further.

Still they certainly avoid hyperbol and I would recommend it to a big fan of Rugby Union (no Rugby League at all).

Excellent read - short stories of Rugby through the ages, 13 Dec 2001
An entertaining book of funny short stories. The type of book that you can 'dip' into night after night.
Although meant for fans of the game, it can be enjoyed by non-rugby fans.
It starts from the early days of Rugby Union with the (dis) organisations trying to set up a world-wide game in the days when travelling was long and difficult. It takes us through to the professional era with stories about the modern teams & players we all know.
We meet the "characters" of the rugby world throughout this book.
My personal favourite is the Scottish player who won his first cap just before going off to fight in WWII. After the war he was invited to play again - it was expected that he would have brought the jersey he had worn 6 years peviousily! (washed of course!)

Helped with the Basic's, 01 Dec 2008
I have utilised some of the training drills in this book to teach Tag Rugby, generally only 10-15% of the drills can be used with tag rugby, but most will be used next year in contact. A good book to start off with

Simply The Best, 28 Apr 2008
The comment on the cover from NZ head of coaching says it all. 'This is my bible'. And it is so easy to understand and use. I don't just follow training plans, I understand the game because of this book. Apart from technical things like SAQ books, there is no point in having other coaching books once you have this one.

Unlikely to be Bettered, 18 Jan 2005
This is the best book on coaching I have ever come across. I coach young children but so much of the book applies to 9-year-olds as much as it does to adults. It is my bible, and I return to it again and again. Apart from Jim Greenwood's brilliantly analytical approach it is a deeply inspiring book. Greenwood believes that you must aim high, and then shows you how it can be done.

Passion with sense, 02 Jan 2005
If you play or coach rugby with passion, then this book will keep your spirit for the sport alive - while giving you the opportunity to step-back from your game with a true strategist. The book is written very calmly and simply, taking you step by step through the techniques used for the different positions, while emphasising every player's contribution, while still keeping an eye on the overall patterns of play. I bought and read this book as a player and am now using it as a coach. Recommended to both.

Total Rugby: A different perspective, 20 Jul 2002
After reading this book for the first time, it revolutionized my ethos on coaching rugby. This book extolls the virtues of every player contributing to defence, attack and support play. In the season that I have coached in this new way, my forwards have become faster and more skillful and my backs have become stronger and better tacklers. This has unified the team, there are no-longer forwards and backs, they are all rugby players.

The best in its field - by far, 13 Jun 2000
For anyone involved in coaching Rugby I would unhesitatingly declare this to be an ESSENTIAL companion. Its literally packed with useful info, tips, suggestions and technical data. I've found it stimulating and eye opening. It really is a book that supplies endless encouragement and insight. Indispensible.

Top coaching aid, 04 Dec 2006
An excellent, book. The drills cover many aspects of the game and with a little imagination can be adapted to suited any age range and ability. Some of the drills do need to be read carefully and introduced slowly to younger players.

the best rugby drills book by far, 25 Aug 2006
As a newly qualified coach to Rugby i decided to buy several of the drill books on offer to help me through the first season.

Out of all the books i purchased only 101 Rugby Training Drills could offer me as a novice to coaching the help i needed to create exciting and worhtwhile drills.

the diagrams and explanations as well as the key helped to set up the drills and guidance in the explanation section is fantastic.

The book is that good that the club has bought the book for every coaching team in the club. what more can i say!

You've got to have it, 10 Mar 2006
I coach junior rugby and this book has developed me and the lads so much. It makes training sessions so much fun because the boys and I are experiencing something new every month.
The book doesn't go into any great detail as to the theory of each excercise, it simply lays out specific drills detailing their key benefits, with clear pictorial aids.
Get it and get it now.

It Does Exactly What It Say's On The Tin!, 16 Sep 2005
After reading this book I was inspired to improve my rugby lessons. This book provides clear instructions and the equipment needed. The skills range from the basic to the technical so your skills can develop over time.

If you are a seasoned coach or new to the game this book will suit all!!

Indispensible Coaching Aid, 25 Jun 2003
Coaching rugby places enormous demands on you to constantly provide variety to prevent players getting bored. The RFU's coaching materials are good, but will only last you a season or two before you've tried all of the drills they suggest.

This book picks up where the RFU materials stop, and the book's title is exactly what you get - an A4-sized soft-back book with 2 drills per page. They are clearly laid out - as good, if not better than the RFU - and there is sufficient description to enable you to understand quickly without the burden of too much detail. It's the kind of book you can browse over breakfast on a Sunday morning when you need inspiration before going to the training ground.

A great resource for coaches at all levels and age groups, including seniors.

great book helped me in all areas of my game, 04 Oct 2000
this book helps you with dribbling, shooting, lay-ups slam dunk everything you can think of a great buy for basketball lovers

BASKETBALL, 13 Sep 1997
THE GAME AND ITS USEFULNESS

G.J. Mason is Ben Wilsons best friend, 31 Jul 2008
Mason is Wilsons best friend and as a 21st prop hardly an athlete. Be ashamed Gareth be very ashamed. Writing bogus reviews to big up your pal and seducing innocents into spending their hard earned cash, shame, shame.

what a book!!!, 05 Jun 2006
i'm a pro athlete and have been for nearly 10 years. i had fallen into the trap of doing the same exercises over and over again. rugby fitness has opened my eyes to that and has led me to re-think my pre-season regime. here's to improvements at all levels. raise a glass to ben wilson. superb.

informative and useful-well recommended, 07 Dec 2007
I played rugby for a fair few years and a learned a great deal of stuff. Interesting and amusing: Matt from Blue Peter interacts well and the video "works" I recommend this to all Minis & Juniors and those interested in improving at school rugby.
Incidentally, Jonny's kicking coach has some excellent tips and where else are you going to get the opportunity to get a lesson from someone of this stature? worth every penny: very pleased

Awesome Resource, 02 Apr 2008
Thing Rugby is am amazing book for any coach, player or even fan of rugby. It will help you develop as a player or coach. This is a resource no team should be without. One of it's primary focus's is to help you learn to think and play as a team, from the coach down to the reserves. Definitely a must read for any Rugby Enthusiast.

Think Like A Pro, 18 Sep 2005
There can be no denying that Jim Greenwood is perhaps the most respected coach in Rugby Union. There is a reason for this, and his books show this. Both Total Rugby and Think Rugby are based on principles and thought processes, not applications.

Think Rugby is, I believe, the better of his two titles - particularly if you are a player. The book will make you think like a pro. Greenwood does not give you a couple of applied examples and explain them and leave you to it - do not think that this is a 'moves' book. Far better is it for this fact. He explains the thought processes to use, he makes you work things out, thereby they stick longer. He does give some examples and explains them allowing you to adapt them or make up your own by using the same processes. The insight it gives could make the most lumbersome prop into a valuable TDM (tactical decision maker).

I would recomment this book, it transformed me from a player/spectator/wannabe coach with some basic ideas of the game, into a thinking TDM who tries to manipulate weaknesses into the opposition as much as look for their original weaknesses.

This book is a must for all practising and budding coaches, 03 Jun 2001
The title of this book does what it says, it makes you "Think Rugby". As a coach it has opened my mind to a new coaching philosophy. It is a magnet of a book, it keeps drawing you back for more! I can't wait for pre-season training to commence so that I can practice the concepts described in this excellent book. Buy it!!

nothing more than a picture gallery, 27 Feb 2002
i would categorise this book as something you would give to a first time visitor to our planet who is interested in rugby. it does nothing to improve your game, it simply tells you what rugby is. if you are an experienced player then stay clear

A great book for beginers and amateurs, 12 Jul 2001
I bought this book to help pick up on some of the fundamentals I had forgotten over 6 years of having not played. Packed full of great action pics and easy to follow rules section, makes this book a must for those wishing to gain an insight into the game.

A book that promises much but fails to deliver - just, 15 Mar 2001
I hoped that a book co-authored by one of rugby's best coaches would provide an insight into what is needed to bring out the best in players. Instead this book provides an excellent summary of all aspects of the game of rugby, including a simplified guide to the laws of the game, but fails to deliver that important guidance on how to coach players for today's rugby. As a result the book is a bit of a disappointment for anyone who has been involved with the game for a while but for the enthusiastic newcomer the simple and enthusiastic approach will appeal. Photographs are used well to illustrate the points made and the overall style makes the book one made for dipping in and out of.

Great Advice!!, 24 Dec 2008
I'm an American Expat new to the game and this book is perfect for the social rugby player. I'm in my early 40's and the workouts are explained in detail and you WILL see a difference in your fitness levels after a few weeks. I look forward to going back to the states soon and joining a social club. I'd like to thank the writers of this book first and foremost, for getting me in the shape I need to be in before I step onto the pitch and mix it up with my fellow ruggers.

This is a must buy book for anyone considering playing this great game.

Great Resource, 02 Apr 2008
This is a book to help you on the field and off the field. It will give you training programs for the season and the off season; Weights, Cardio, Windsprints and much much more. This book is clear, informative, encouraging and challenging. This is a resource no rugby player should be without.

Rugby training for real..., 21 Apr 2007
This is not a book about rugby tactics, skills and positional play of which there are many different good and bad books already in existance, this instead focuses on the kind of physical training needed to be done to be successful (or even just survive) in a rugby game.

Though in five chapters the book falls into roughly three areas; how to assess your current level of fitness and strength, what type of exercises should be done to improve your weaker areas and finally tips on nutrition to help you along. However this is not aimed at professionals or top players but rather the great mass of social rugby players that make up the grass roots of our game. Important themes for the amateur player are discussed such as the machines versus free weights arguements or how to do your training outside the gym if you don't have the finances or time to use one. Simple questions that many players may be embarrassed to ask team mates or gym buddies about are answered such as how to do a proper warm up and what plyometrics are. Finally the last chapter takes an interesting approach to nutrition accepting that alcohol and take-aways are part of the life of social rugby player, so therefore guides you to the best nutritional decisions to make if you are faced with a night out for a curry then the pub afterwards!

I think this book would be particularly useful to social players wanting to make simple and easy improvements to their lifestyle to help there rugby, be they young players just entering the adult game needing to 'beef up', older players wanting to try and keep up with the new kids, a player trying to break into the first team at a social club or a team thats decided this year if they put a bit more effort they can get to the local cup final.

I am a young, fairly recently qualified rugby coach and I have found this book useful for helping me give advice to my players (who are students so as such may not have the healthiest lifestyles). I imagine coaches of similar social orientated but competetive teams may also find this book useful, either for themselves or to recommend to their players.

Comprehensive, straightforward and versatile, 04 Mar 2006
Whether your using a gym, a field, your home or a combination of these its a great book for helping you get started on the basics of progressing with Rugby specific training. Good info, easy to follow and carry around - you can find good generic training info as well as specifics for e.g. sprint training, speed stamina, muscle building - no gimicks here, just solid advice.

Rugby for Real, 25 Aug 2004
Rugby for Real is a quality insight to the basic principles of training for Rugby union. It gives clear descriptions of the weights, drills and nutrition neeeded. It is also a well organised book and has a good, smart layout. it is one of the best rugby training books I have ever come across!

Interesting history, but slight dull anacdotes, 11 Feb 2003
I enjoyed this book. A number of the stories are interesting from a historical perspective. However it is a far from a complete history (it does not set out to be) and the stories themselves are often rather dull. The stories build up, and then you realise they go no further.

Still they certainly avoid hyperbol and I would recommend it to a big fan of Rugby Union (no Rugby League at all).

Excellent read - short stories of Rugby through the ages, 13 Dec 2001
An entertaining book of funny short stories. The type of book that you can 'dip' into night after night.
Although meant for fans of the game, it can be enjoyed by non-rugby fans.
It starts from the early days of Rugby Union with the (dis) organisations trying to set up a world-wide game in the days when travelling was long and difficult. It takes us through to the professional era with stories about the modern teams & players we all know.
We meet the "characters" of the rugby world throughout this book.
My personal favourite is the Scottish player who won his first cap just before going off to fight in WWII. After the war he was invited to play again - it was expected that he would have brought the jersey he had worn 6 years peviousily! (washed of course!)

Helped with the Basic's, 01 Dec 2008
I have utilised some of the training drills in this book to teach Tag Rugby, generally only 10-15% of the drills can be used with tag rugby, but most will be used next year in contact. A good book to start off with

Simply The Best, 28 Apr 2008
The comment on the cover from NZ head of coaching says it all. 'This is my bible'. And it is so easy to understand and use. I don't just follow training plans, I understand the game because of this book. Apart from technical things like SAQ books, there is no point in having other coaching books once you have this one.

Unlikely to be Bettered, 18 Jan 2005
This is the best book on coaching I have ever come across. I coach young children but so much of the book applies to 9-year-olds as much as it does to adults. It is my bible, and I return to it again and again. Apart from Jim Greenwood's brilliantly analytical approach it is a deeply inspiring book. Greenwood believes that you must aim high, and then shows you how it can be done.

Passion with sense, 02 Jan 2005
If you play or coach rugby with passion, then this book will keep your spirit for the sport alive - while giving you the opportunity to step-back from your game with a true strategist. The book is written very calmly and simply, taking you step by step through the techniques used for the different positions, while emphasising every player's contribution, while still keeping an eye on the overall patterns of play. I bought and read this book as a player and am now using it as a coach. Recommended to both.

Total Rugby: A different perspective, 20 Jul 2002
After reading this book for the first time, it revolutionized my etho