Page 125 - Mind, Body and Spirit 2015-16

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THE ARMY RUGBY STRENGTH AND CONDITIONING COACH POSITION
SSgt (SSI) D Bradley RAPTC
The Army Rugby Strength and Conditioning Coach is an interesting position that has many challenges hidden within. The requirements are driven by the Head Coach and his vision, which means remaining exible and realistic about what I think the team needs, alongside what the coach and the team think they need for themselves. My task is to communicate effectively to the coach and players, delivering Premiership Rugby standard S&C within the constraints in order to retain the Inter Services title.
SSgt Bradley Training Camp
On game day I provide a match speci c warm up and keep the players ready and warm in case of any injuries or replacements. I also provide players with the education to be able to move effectively (probably a rugby player’s biggest downfall). This is a massive challenge as players only see strength and power training as a means to be rugby ready and neglect some of the most basic training principles. To combat this I include lots of dynamic stretches and mobility within warm ups to help improve movement. Initially there was some resistance but after the player’s movements and ultimately performance improved the “buy in” has been great.
I also provide nutritional advice for game days and general eating habits for players. The amount of sugar provided for players pre match was unbelievable and a little behind the times. Taking away their jelly babies didn’t go down too well.
In addition I provide support to the Medical Team including WO1 (SMI) S Jackson RAPTC who has a cohesive and rst class approach with the service they provide. They ensure all players are looked after pre/post game and training to ensure the Head Coach can select the strongest starting XV. We keep good communication to ensure players have a smooth transition from injury to playing again. It is great having another RAPTCI on board to make sure we are guiding it in the right direction.
In closing I am very fortunate to ful l the role of Strength and Conditioning job with the Army Rugby Team and have enjoyed the highs and lows that come with it. The whole set up is amazing and I am intent on continuing to support Army Rugby for the foreseeable future.
SSgt Bradley & SMI Jackson at Twickenham
Brighton 7s Competition
Brighton 7s Fancy Dress
Lich eld RUFC
(NMA), Lich eld on Sat 12 Sep 15. After the service the team played Lich eld RUFC seconds and Veterans side in a 15 aside friendly xture. Lich eld played us in a well fought, competitively contested game in a great spirit. We were kindly hosted by the club and then bravely agreed to a night in Lich eld with the team. Yes there were some sore heads the next morning. The RAPTC won the xture 65-25.
Lich eld RUFC Sgt Clarkson and Son