IPSWICH YM’s under-12s benefited from an advanced ruck and tackle session with highly-accomplished and regarded Level 3 coach, Martin Watson.

Watson has coached at club, district and county level and has seen ten of his district players graduate to the county stage at under-15 level.

The emphasis of the session was to carry out moves and techniques legally and to exploit the laws by getting to feet to play the ball quickly with fun and at a high tempo.

The coach devised a multi-phased training package that highlighted the technical skill and then placed it into specific playing conditions; the focus was to lift the boys’ skill level in this area for the 2012-2013 campaign and beyond.

“It was a great session and I was genuinely impressed with the standard of play by the young players. I can see why they have been so successful to date,” said Watson.

The training is designed for 18-year-olds but Watson was so confident in the boys’ ability that he held the session for the youngsters.

One of the many senior players who has benefited from Watson’s excellent coaching is Freddie Burns. Burns is the current Gloucester and England Saxon fly half, whose performances this season continue to attract attention from Stuart Lancaster and his selectors.

Very kindly, Freddie signed and had framed one of his England shirts, together with a personal message wishing all at Ipswich YM RUFC’s Youth & Junior Section the very best for the future together.

This will soon be presented to YM for display in the clubhouse.