02/08/2026
Hey all.
Firstly, big thanks to you and your teams for competitive games each week. Walter and I have been speaking about the speed of the games.
This week, there are no games. We come together for February 20th.
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Officiating:
Ref's are not perfect! I'll be the first to say that. I thank you for working with the ref's and not against the refs.
I tend to be vocal on the field to help guide defense as to where the 5m line is. Or when there is a tough call (Touch Pass) or a close try.
Any questions please speak to me or Walter after games.
As we move into the last few weeks of the season, we wish to make sure players continue to up-skill their game. To help with this Walter and I are focusing on;
Offside.
- Wingers are often cheating. Any "lazy" retreating will be warned and if continued will be a penalty.
- Middles. Often get caught by fast teams. You need to retreat in a straight line and not deviate from it. Once you've made 5m the ref will call you onside, you're able to re-engage.
Unsporting behaviour.
- Let's eliminate any off the ball behaviour. If caught, the ref has the authority to send you off for a sub. Treat it like a yellow card.
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TOUCH TALK: Weekly tips on game play
What is a Positive (Good) vs. Aggressive (Illegal) touch. While "positive" is encouraged, an "aggressive" touch can sometimes cross the line into illegal, excessive force.
Positive/Active Touch (Allowed): A firm touch that slows the player down instantly, allowing the defense to set up a 5-meter retreat. It is a skill used to pressure the offense into errors.
Excessive/Illegal Touch (Penalized): Any touch that involves "excessive force," pushing, shoving, or slapping the ball out of the player's hands. A touch that forces the player over or hurts them will result in a penalty.
]Use a dominate touch tactic: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=eXBeH0agNY4
Subbing - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=IhEGzY4e4Sc
- I often see teams subbing at unideal times during the game leading to, often, a try as teams are caught short handed.
- Quick video to help your team's strategy on when to sub.
Touch is a game with unlimited subs. But you have to get them onto the field in a positive way - this video shows you how!