Walker joins Coaching Development team for special clinic

Gruff got the session underway with a classroom presentation on the Ospreys rugby philosophy and the vital role that kicking skills and tactics played in today's game. This was followed by a demonstration of some of the drills and conditioned games the Ospreys used in their training sessions, while Walker added a real insight into a top player's perspective of this critical facet of the modern game.

Ospreys Coach Development Officer, Tony Thomas, said: "It was an excellent evening that was well attended by coaches from across the region, and Gruff delivered an insightful session that definitely opened a few eyes about the role of kicking in the game currently. It was fascinating to also hear Nikki's views as a player currently involved at the highest level, on how training had changed dramatically in respect of the approach to the kicking game."

Nikki Walker said: "Current laws mean that the kicking game has changed beyond all recognition. The purpose of me attending the session was to be able to get across the players viewpoint on the subject. Gruff led the session, and I was able to support him and help to get across to the coaches present how it has impacted at the top level of the game, and what the kicking strategy is here at the Ospreys now given the law changes.

"I really enjoyed being part of the session, it was good to be able to assist with the ongoing development of some of the up and coming coaches of the region. For me personally, it's very much a first step towards securing my own future as a coach, which is something that is very much on my agenda at the moment. I'm sure that with the coaching development system being as strong as it is here, there'll be plenty more opportunities for me to get more coaching experience under my belt, which is something that I'm looking forward to."

Tony Thomas added: "We are also grateful to the boys of Swansea District U16's who provided the demonstrations. It is a credit to them and their coaches to see the skills and the attitude they displayed on the night. The District U16 team is scheduled to play Blues South U16s in the Final of the Welsh Inter District Cup and we wish them every success. The match takes place at Llanharan RFC at 7.15 next Monday, 14th December. If you want a real treat and would like to support the lads, why not go along and support them."

Any coaches interested in being involved in future coaching clinics should contact Ospreys Coach Development Officer Tony Thomas on tthomas@wru.co.uk