EXPERT SESSIONS AND ADVICE FROM QUALIFIED AND EXPERIENCED GRASSROOTS RUGBY COACHES
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.
in Rugby drills, Tackling
Help players practise the risk and reward elements of attempting to turnover the ball in the tackle area. It starts with good tackling and then decisions on whether to compete for the ball. If the ball carrier is momentarily isolated, support players need to react quickly to secure the ball. MORE
in Tackling
Improve tackling by teaching players to make more shoulder contacts. Rolled up socks reduce the players’ inclination to grab in the tackle. Impact with the shoulder helps players make a stronger contact, but also be in safe position to complete the tackle. Rolled up socks are easier for players of all sizes. Rolled up bibs work equally well. MORE
in Rugby drills, Tackling
This activity works on the ball carrier sprinting for the line while the defender tries to intercept him. Getting to the tackle can be as important as making it. This session is mainly working on chasing tackles, so is quite low impact. MORE
in Rugby drills, Tackling
The front-on tackle also represents the best opportunity to dominate the ball carrier and win the battle for the gain line. This activity works on this. Develop players’ ability to come forward, with or without their team mates to make front-on tackles. MORE
in Tackling
Use this simple and quick to set up exercise as part of your tackling break out groups to work on good technique in a medium impact environment. Players need to constant exposure to tackling, especially where they have to use footwork to get close to make the best sort of impact. MORE
in Defence, Rugby drills, Tackling
This session works on players reading the situation and not being afraid to give up ground as long as the tackle is made. Sometimes the tackler needs to accept that he cannot “win” the contact, but still needs to bring the ball carrier to ground effectively. MORE
