Cool-down and review

Setup

1. Use the end of practice; players remove helmets if they are wearing them.
2. Coach stands in the middle of the area.

How it runs

1. Easy jog for one minute, then walk a lap of the area for one minute.
2. Form a circle round the coach for static stretches, 20–30 seconds each side.
3. Stretch the calves, hamstrings, quads, hip flexors (half-kneeling), glutes (figure-four) and shoulders (arm across the chest).
4. Review: ask what went well and one thing to work on next time. Keep it to two or three minutes.
5. Ask who has a knock or a sore spot. Anyone who hit their head, or feels dizzy or has a headache, tells a coach and sits out.
6. Drink water, then finish with a team break.

Coaching points

• Breathe slowly and hold each stretch still; no bouncing.
• Stretch to mild tension, never pain.
• Ask open questions and let players answer, rather than the coach talking.
• Praise effort and one specific skill from the session.

Common mistakes

• Skipping the cool-down when practice runs late.
• Rushing the stretches or holding them for only a few seconds.
• Players hiding a knock or a head knock so they can keep playing.