Leslie bringing expertise

SERIOUS FUN: Kids on the North Shore tackle the fundamental rugby skills programme delivered by the John Leslie "coaching the coaches" New Zealand tour that rolls into Whanganui next week.PHOTO/SUPPLIED

Former Highlander and Scotland rugby captain John Leslie will deliver his own special brand of coaching skills in Whanganui next week as part of a nationwide tour aimed at the grassroots junior ranks.

LeslieRugby, backed by CrestClean, is on tour to deliver 50 Junior Rugby Coaching Programme sessions to rugby clubs and schools throughout New Zealand stopping off at Tawhero School and Kaierau on Thursday next week and the Taihape Rugby Football Club the following day.

The programme is aimed at junior rugby coaches and/or parents keen on coaching the game.

It promotes fundamental skill development and makes it easier for junior team coaches to deliver a high-value practice.

The programme also ensures players are given an enjoyable and beneficial experience. Coaches are also given a pocket-sized skills and drills booklet .

During each session, run by Leslie himself, a team of 12-year-olds, pre-selected from each club or school visited, demonstrate 14 core skills while he explains his coaching philosophies and tips for keeping the energy high and the game fun for kids.

The drill-training plan, which is effective and easy to implement, is based on the core fundamentals of rugby. It features easy-to-understand diagrams for each of the core skills delivered. Leslie will coach the coaches at Tawhero School on Thursday, April 7, at 1pm and at the Kaierau Club at 6.30pm. The Taihape session is scheduled to kick off on Friday, April 8, at 6.30pm.