Rugby League Coaching Manuals

Sky Sports - If England are to improve their chances for the 2013 World Cup and indeed improve the standard of the sport in this country, then everybody needs to recognise the need to increase our knowledge in several areas of the game. When England lost to New Zealand in the semi-final of last year's World Cup, it wasn't just Tony Smith's fault, nor that of his support staff.

Everybody connected with the game of rugby league was responsible in some small way for the national team's performance.

The 17 players wearing England jerseys are just the tip of the iceberg, who have practised and trained for over a decade with a variety of coaches and fitness trainers, and been treated by physios and doctors through a series of bumps, bruises and injuries.

If England are to improve their chances for the 2013 World Cup and indeed improve the standard of the sport in this country, then everybody needs to recognise the need to increase our knowledge in several areas of the game.

Throughout the 1980's and early 90's the game of rugby league led the way in its acceptance of Sports Science and the need to increase the awareness and knowledge of proper sports medicine. The time has come again for us to embrace a 'learning phase' and benefit from the research and developments made in both fields.

People often ask what we need to do to beat Australia. Well, matching them physically is a starting point and I'm delighted that the RFL have organised a conference to help to do this.