Technology and Communication

Teenagers communicate in much the same way as most modern adults. They will continue to use the more popular ways of keeping in touch such as texting, Facebook and video chat, but they also understand the need to pick up the phone or when to send an email. By the way, most teens think land lines and email are lame. And it might be helpful to know, more teens own a mobile phone than a computer.

Texting is very important to teens. Many teens say texting is so important that if it was no longer available their social life would end. And who says teens can be melodramatic?

Even with all this technology, face-to-face time is number one among teenagers, while texting comes second. So, you could try texting the teens training and game times to reinforce what was said at the last session or practice.

Having a private Facebook page just for your team makes a lot of sense – although it should be noted Facebook is becoming less popular among teens.

The good news is teenagers are able to accept change and adapt swiftly. So, setting something up that’s a little bit different won’t throw them. They believe they have a lot of stress in their lives and are always looking for ways to handle it better.

Teenagers often know more about technology than adults. And while advanced rugby skills and techniques might not have a place on the training field yet, the technology the older teams use can be useful for teenagers too.

So, think of ways to incorporate tech into your training - even if it is the most rudimentary tool like a TV and Video. It adds another tool to your coaching kit and enables you to demonstrate certain points in a variety of ways. You could try filming some of their training sessions or games and uploading them to YouTube to get a point across. Use an iPad for immediate coaching feedback or attach a GoPro to a player – they will definitely be keen for a second look at that!