‘Peaking’ event a huge success
THERE was a large turnout in the Sportsground on Monday last, February 12, as coaches and support staff from youth teams attended a specialised workshop titled ‘Peaking to Perform: An interdisciplinary overview of maximising team performance’.
The IRFU-led event was aimed at providing schools and clubs with insight into what all team staff can do during competition to maximise their team’s ability to perform at their best.
The two-hour workshop took an integrated look at key performance areas of rugby coaching, athletic performance, nutrition and performance medicine with a specific view on best practice and recommended behaviours in and around match days.
There was an expert panel in attendance on the night to present on specialist topics and answer questions of the large attendance.
Among the contributors were High Performance Manager, Colin McEntee; Rod McLoughlin, Head of Medical Services; Martin Kennedy, National Talent Athletic Development Coach; Gavin Rackard, National Performance Nutritionist; and Matthew Wilkie, Head of Coach Development.
Connacht Rugby Coach Development Manager Eamonn Molloy was delighted with the turnout and the feedback received from participants.
“This workshop was a unique event as participants from right across the province had the opportunity to hear from so many high-level experts,” he said.
“With the large numbers in attendance, there will be a huge benefit to clubs and schools right across the province.
“The timing of the workshop was perfect as Cup Season is coming around and teams are trying to find that edge that will make all the difference on the field,” Molloy added.