Sessions that develop better tackle height

The RFU has brought forward plans to reduce the tackle height at age grade rugby to below the armpits.

Talking to experienced school coaches in particular, they don’t see much change in the impact on the game as a whole. However, it is an excellent opportunity to reexamine your tackle technique training.

Here are four session ideas to develop footwork, body shapes, target areas and finishes for a variety of contact situations.

Up and tackle develops side-on tackles, where most tackles are low. With players recovering from a prone position, it reduces the speed of play, giving the less-confident a better chance to complete a tackle.

Boxer tackles to build better tackle technique is a step-by-step process from footwork to contact. This is a good warm-up exercise to move into a contact section.

A senior’s favourite, I’ve found Tackle testing is also popular with younger players too. Players can co-coach as well, as the exercises offers a good audience view.

Finally, in Tackle balance, you can really focus on tackle height when the tackler is not completely in control of their approach angles.

Up and tackle

in Rugby drills, Tackling

Work on side-on tackles where the defenders are scrambling across to cover the attack. They will need to keep square so they don’t get sidestepped, and keep in the line with their team mates. Moving from a prone position means initially they will be disrupted and will have to find their positioning quickly. MORE

VIDEO: Boxer tackles to build better tackle technique

in Rugby coaching videos, Rugby drills, Tackling

Use this four stage exercise to build better tackle technique. By emulating a boxer, the tackler develops balanced footwork, staying square to the target, punching the hands forward and then, at the end engaging the shoulder. It help players become more confident in contact. MORE

Tackle testing

in Rugby drills, Tackling

Randomise your 1 v 1, 1 v 2 and 2 v 2 tackle training with this exercise. Its quick-fire nature gives players little chance to think and makes for an active session. MORE

VIDEO: Tackle balance

in Rugby coaching videos, Rugby drills, Tackling

Improve your players' ability to enter a tackle from a strong position, even though they may be off-balance. Use this exercise as a full contact activity or as part of preparation for a full defence session. MORE