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Lesson 3 - Loop Passing to Outwit Defenders

Team Coordination

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Year 5

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Tag Rugby

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Big Question

How can we use different passing techniques to create attacking opportunities and score tries in tag rugby?

Learning Objectives

To learn and execute a loop pass to create attacking overlaps
To understand when, where and why to use loop passes in game situations
To apply loop passing effectively to outwit defenders and score tries

Key Outcomes

Students will be able to perform a loop pass accurately with a partner
Students will understand the tactical purpose of loop passing in tag rugby
Students will apply loop passing successfully in competitive game situations

Equipment & Resources Required

Rugby Balls

1 per 2 students (15 total)

Distribute around practice area perimeter

Alternative: Foam rugby balls for beginners, size 3 balls for smaller hands

Tag Belts

2 belts per student (60 total)

Different colours for teams, spare tags available

Alternative: Bibs tucked into shorts, velcro belts

Cones

40-50 cones

Mark boundaries, zones, and try lines clearly

Alternative: Markers, spots, or chalk lines

Bibs

15 (two colours)

Clearly distinguish teams during games

Alternative: Different coloured tag belts

Key Vocabulary

Loop Pass

A passing technique where the ball carrier passes to a teammate then runs behind them to receive a return pass

Overlap

Having more attackers than defenders in a specific area of the pitch

Support Player

A teammate positioned to receive a pass or provide an attacking option

Offload

Passing the ball just before being tagged to maintain possession

Try Line

The line that players must cross with possession to score points

Skill Progression Pathway

Understanding where pupils are coming from and where they're going

Prior Learning

Basic passing and catching skills
Understanding of tag rugby rules
Simple attacking and defensive concepts
Basic movement and support play

Current Skills

Loop passing technique execution
Tactical understanding of when to use loop passes
Creating attacking overlaps
Advanced support play and communication

Next Steps

Complex passing combinations (switch passes, dummy passes)
Advanced attacking patterns and set plays
Tactical decision-making under pressure
Leadership in attack coordination

Milestone Indicators

Consistent loop pass execution without dropping the ball

Recognition of appropriate moments to attempt loop passes

Successful creation of attacking overlaps

Effective communication during passing sequences

Key Teaching Points

Loop passing creates attacking overlaps by adding an extra player to the attacking line
Timing is crucial - pass just before being tagged to maintain possession and momentum
Communication between attackers is essential for successful loop passing execution
Support players must maintain pace and position to receive the ball effectively
Loop passes should only be used when tactical advantage can be gained
Quality of basic passing and catching underpins all advanced techniques
Reading defensive positioning determines when loop passing will be most effective

Common Misconceptions

Loop passes should be used in every attacking situation - actually they're only effective when creating an overlap
The ball carrier should stop after passing - they must continue moving to complete the loop
Loop passes work best in tight spaces - they actually need width to be effective
Only fast players can execute loop passes - technique and timing matter more than speed
Loop passing is too advanced for Year 5 - with proper progression it's entirely achievable
Defence can't stop loop passes - good defensive communication and positioning can neutralise them

SEN Adaptations

ADHD

Break activities into shorter segments, provide clear boundaries and expectations, use movement breaks effectively

dyspraxia

Allow extra practice time, use larger equipment, provide step-by-step visual guides, encourage rather than pressure

autism spectrum

Provide clear structure and routine, visual timetable of lesson stages, quiet area available if needed

visual impairment

Use brightly coloured balls and equipment, provide verbal descriptions of movements, buddy system for guidance

hearing impairment

Use clear visual demonstrations, hand signals for communication, written instruction cards available

physical disability

Modify to seated or supported versions, use larger/lighter balls, adjust distances and pace as needed

Cross-Curricular Links

English

Technical vocabulary development, clear communication and instruction-giving

Science

Forces in ball flight, momentum and acceleration in running, physics of collision and impact

Art

Movement patterns and flow, creativity in tactical solutions, visual awareness of space and design

Geography

Directional language, mapping movement patterns, understanding of space and positioning

PSHE

Teamwork and cooperation, resilience in face of challenges, leadership and communication skills

Teacher Guidance

Positioning

Move between groups during practice, central position during games for optimal visibility

Observation Focus

Watch for correct loop passing technique, tactical decision-making, and safe play

Intervention Points

Step in if technique breaks down, unsafe play occurs, or students become frustrated

Demonstration Notes

Use students to demonstrate good examples, freeze games to highlight teaching points, show common errors and corrections

Verbal Cues

•'Pass and loop!'
•'Read the defender!'
•'Quick hands!'
•'Support your teammate!'

Safety Considerations

Space & Surface Requirements

Space Requirements

Minimum 30m x 20m clear area, preferably grass or artificial surface

Surface Check

Dry, even surface free from stones, holes or other trip hazards

Equipment Safety

Safety Checks

•Check rugby balls are properly inflated and in good condition
•Ensure tag belts are secure but not overly tight
•Cones positioned safely away from main activity areas

Risk Management

Key Risks

•Collisions between players during passing practice
•Slips and falls on wet or uneven surfaces
•Inappropriate contact during tagging
•Ball strikes to head or body

Risk Mitigation

•Clear boundaries established and communicated
•Adequate spacing maintained between groups
•Progressive skill building from static to dynamic
•Regular monitoring of contact levels and game intensity
•Clear rules about appropriate tagging technique

Supervision & Emergency Procedures

Supervision Points

•Position for maximum visibility of all activity areas
•Monitor high-intensity game situations closely
•Intervene quickly if unsafe contact occurs
•Ensure students follow equipment handling procedures

Emergency Procedures

Stop activity immediately if injury occurs, assess and provide appropriate first aid, ensure other students remain safe and supervised