Leading From The Front

Thanks to James Parkes of Leeds Carnegie for delivering an excellent front row clinic at Ripon Rugby club tonight. James is a hooker in the current Leeds premiership side and offered valuable insights into the sometimes mysterious world of front row play. The session was well attended by coaches from various clubs/schools; there was also a large contingent of interested players from the University of York St. John. Ripon’s senior and development squads were also well represented, all keen to steal a march on future adversaries!

James concentrated (not surprisingly) on the basics of body and foot position and was keen to stress speed into the gap on engagement. He also provided very practical advice and insights for both loose and tightheads. He did broaden his session to look at the role of the locks and backrows in supporting the front row at scrum time.

The feedback was hugely positive and I know the younger players picked up useful practical tips from James that they are keen to utilise.