By Brian Smith Head Coach Parramatta Eels , Written by Robert Rachow

"A lot of good work can be sadly and badly brought undone by poor decisions from the bench," says Smith.

Smith is a firm advocate of training in conditions that simulate match situations. At Parramatta, both the NRL squad and First Division team train together in mock games that incorporate the majority of elements expected in a real match. These drills provide the players, and the coach, with a template to follow or modify depending on the relevant situation. A template allows the coach to focus on other factors such as individual match-ups and specific patterns of play, while giving the team a mental checklist to grade their progress as well.

"Reacting and adjusting to differing circumstances like injuries, sin-bins and weather conditions doesn’t just come naturally," Smith reveals.

"Practising these situations at training allows you to react positively
when they happen in a game. And when they do happen it allows you to gauge your approach and either adjust it or reinforce it before the next game. It is a continuous learning cycle. In the past I have followed games by a set routine, but now I prefer to be a lot less rigid. You need to establish a feel for the game and consider all your options when any variables arise.

Of course with the advent of unlimited interchange, the number of variables has risen dramatically. Individual replacements may not be as critical as before, but the frequency and impact with which bench players rotate has certainly soared. The lateral thinking required to effectively and efficiently substitute players is only developed through a thorough understanding of the team’s direction and personal capabilities. At the precise moment of interchange the coaching staff must assess the amount of stress on the respective players, the amount of energy expelled, time needed for recovery, a suitable warm-up exercise and possible treatment for any injuries. All this without even considering tactical changes or specific instructions for the various players!

Deciding which players man the bench is almost as difficult as choosing the correct time to interchange them. Versatility, temperament and fitness levels all play a role in selecting those not in the starting thirteen. An injury to just one player may mean the entire team needs to be reshuffled or another player will figure in a significantly larger capacity than they have previously. Other issues to consider include the player’s level of nervousness, ability to control their nerves, and impact value."

Rugby League is truly a 17-man game and just because a player is on the bench, it doesn’t mean he is worse than anybody who is starting," Smith offers.