The RFL has launched a new Level 1 Rugby League coaching qualification specifically designed for coaching young players under the age of 12.

The innovative award which has been put together in collaboration with leading education and sports specialists will ensure that children learn the appropriate core skills to aid their Rugby League development.

Vinny Webb, RFL Head of Coach Development said: “We have increasingly recognised that one system of coach education which trains all coaches in the same way irrespective of whether they coach young children or adults simply does not meet the needs of the sport.

“More importantly, does not serve the best interests of young players.”

The sport has commissioned extensive research into the needs of young players and this has demonstrated that they are deficient in one of the key requirements which will help them to play the game at the higher levels, namely movement literacy.

Dave Rotheram, RFL National Player Development Manager said: “Many players coming onto the talent pathway have been identified to have poor movement skills which then limits their technical and tactical abilities and also increases the risk of injury.”

Working with experts from education and sports science the RFL has therefore developed the new Level 1 with the express purpose of training coaches to develop better movement skills in young players, alongside the core skills that they need to play rugby league.

The programme also ensures that coaches have the appropriate skills to work with young children. They are provided with extensive resources in the form of movement skills cards and games cards specifically designed for younger players.

These coaching cards show appropriate training activities which are specifically designed for younger players.

England Rugby League Head Coach, Steve McNamara said: “The new qualification will enable coaches to deliver appropriate training sessions for young players to improve their development in Rugby League.

This will provide a great foundation for all young peoples’ participation in sport and in the long term the national team will benefit significantly from this.”

Coaches that hold current Level 1 Coaching Qualifications will not be affected by the new Level 1 Coaching award and will remain qualified to coach as at present.

The new Level 1 Rugby League Coaching Course consists of two separate days with approximately four weeks in between and costs £138 with £40 rebate on completion.

For full details about the course visit www.therfl.co.uk/coach