It's quite instructive to ask pupils what they like most about taking part in school sport. The Learning Objectives determined for them by the National Curriculum (acquiring and applying skill, understanding health and fitness) are predictably unimportant to teenagers. What do they value about team games? Why do they devote their leisure time to practices and matches, and why do many adults regard school sport as a lifetime highlight?

The answer lies predominantly in "mateship". The simple enjoyment of companionable activity, of striving together towards a common goal. The world of adult sport shares these values. It...

Background

As you may be aware, the RFU and Constituent Bodies have received a number of complaints over the last season relating to the prohibition on sports goggles in all contact rugby at all ages. Discussions and considerable efforts have therefore been taking place internally for some time and the RFU has been liaising closely with the Association of British Dispensing Opticians to develop a practical solution to provide a wider degree of flexibility to enable great social inclusion in Rugby Union.

The RFU has therefore decided to introduce in England a trial that would enable...

Everyone loves creative players. They are the ones who light up sport, provide the wow, the priceless, memorable moments. The flashes of genius that win the game. They are so important to sport, both the results and the beauty that underlies it. They are the household names. They are memorable. They are disproportionately important.

It would be logical therefore, if the development of creativity dominated the debate regarding sports coaching. In schools, clubs and National Governing Bodies. Creativity has everything: effectiveness, desirability, inspiration. But little attention.

Much coaching is aimed at the average player. Drills,...