Six steps to Six Nations

Striving for rugby success

The prevalence of sporting stars on our screens means that our boys are not short of athletic role models. The current Six Nations Championships, for example, are surrounded by extensive television and media coverage ensuring any and all legendary moments are documented across the global stage, available to access at a moment’s notice. But when it comes to making this dream a reality, it is often the foundations that an individual has in their sport that makes the difference.

We’re incredibly proud to see two Loughborough Grammar School alumni, Christophe Ridley (LGS 2011) and Andrew Jackson (LGS 2004) holding refereeing roles in this year’s Six Nations Championships. Andrew Jackson, who will be the Television Match Official (TMO) – responsible for watching the match on TV screens using multiple camera angles and passing on information to the match referee to help them make correct decisions – said: “In terms of rugby, I was first introduced to the sport at LGS having only played football prior to that. I was part of an all-conquering B team in Year 7 where we went a whole season without conceding a point! I took up reffing when I went to uni and immediately loved it. I rose through the ranks and did 35 Premiership games before moving into TMO’ing.”

“I’m very much looking forward to the Six Nations again having experienced it as an official for the first time last year. I’ve been involved in the various international windows now, including both legs of the 2025 Bledisloe Cup, but there’s something extra special about being involved in the Six Nations as that was the tournament that we all watched when growing up.”

Andrew Jackson (LGS 2004)

As a Level 4 Rugby Football Union coach with a professional background in the sport, I feel privileged to talk to the boys from a position of real-world experience and years of developed knowledge. My six tips for Six Nations success are designed to ensure that boys receive well-rounded advice; they are not only encouraged to strengthen their technique but also to prioritise their team mentality, stay calm under pressure and fuel their fitness.

Nail the basics

At the top level, the game is won by players who do the simple things under extreme pressure. They remember what they’ve been taught, return to their roots and stay consistent. Flash moments get headlines, but it is the basics that result in match wins.

Win the contact area

The Six Nations is physically demanding. If your team wins collisions and gets quick ball, everything becomes easier – attack looks sharper and defence spends less time scrambling.

Train your engine

Think fitness with purpose. The biggest difference between amateur and elite players is stamina. Balanced fitness doesn’t just help you run more; it helps you make better decisions when tiredness starts to creep in.

Improve your rugby IQ

Top players don’t just react, they anticipate. Good decision-makers control tempo, choose the right options and keep the team calm when the pressure hits.

Turn pressure into performance

Moments of Six Nations glory are often decided by how a player reacts under pressure. Whether it’s a last tackle, a high ball, a lineout call, or a final conversion, the best players stay accurate when it matters most.

Be the teammate coaches trust

International rugby is built on trust. Coaches pick players who deliver their job consistently, follow the plan, and raise the level of the group – not just those with sheer talent.