Movement Analysis
The main movements performed by a centre are tackling
opponents, kicking the ball for territory, passing, running and other agility actions such as cutting and checking to change direction.
These movements would utilise all major muscle areas of the body and combine
unidirectional, multidirectional and rotational movement. It is important for
the player to have excellent agility and speed to allow for precise, quick and
effective movement. A good level of cardiovascular fitness is also required in
order to have sufficient endurance to perform well for the entire 80 minute match.
Physiological Analysis
As a centre this player is vital to the team’s defence and
performs many tackles throughout a match, it is important to a very good
strength and power to ensure strong and effective tackles on opponents. The
player frequently uses anaerobic pathways throughout the match in the form of intermittent
efforts such as sprints, tackles and kicking. However aerobic pathways would
also be in use during the match as the there would be periods of the game where
the centre is not involved with high intensity play.
Injury Analysis
Common
injuries in rugby include hamstring strains, shoulder and finger dislocations,
ankle sprains and head injuries. Centres generally wear football style boots
with specific rugby studs, which are often longer than in football to allow for
better grip on wet and muddy pitches.
Evaluation of the Athlete
Training History
To evaluate the training background of the athlete a
musculoskeletal screen was completed; firstly a Functional Movement Screen was
performed followed by agility drills. It was found that the athlete performed
very well on the basic strength and reaction assessments. They also
demonstrated good technique and footwork whilst completing the agility drills.
However it was noted that the player had difficulty performing transitions
during the agility drills and also displayed poor balance.
Classification of Training Status
The
athlete is very experienced with use of free-weights and also resistance machines,
and is also comfortable lifting heavy loads showing good technique. Since this athlete performs at international
standard it should be assumed that he is at an Advanced training status as he
is an elite competitor.