Turn and tackle
in Tackling
Develop better footwork skills to get close to the ball carrier, plus good teamwork in this defensive reaction activity. This session builds a better defence by getting pairs of players to work together. MORE
EXPERT SESSIONS AND ADVICE FROM QUALIFIED AND EXPERIENCED GRASSROOTS RUGBY COACHES
An organised defensive system requires players to make front on tackles. This often means the defender has to adjust his position to make sure he is in a strong body shape to make the tackle. This session works on developing the required techniques through to a game situation.
Warm up time: 5-7
Session time: 5-8
Development time: 10-15
Game time: 15-20
Warm down time: 5-7
Use mirroring exercises and games with your players where one player follows another face-to-face. This will improve their footwork and understanding of where they need to be to make a strong tackle.
The ball carrier moves from left to right trying to get away from the defender. The defender has to aim to stay opposite him.
When the ball carrier thinks he is free he moves forward in a straight line to score. The defender has to get in front of him and make a two-handed touch on his chest. If the defender finds it difficult to start with, decrease the width of the channel.
The defender mirrors the attacker, who only moves forward when he thinks he has some space in front of him.
The tackler plants his lead leg close to the ball carrier and hits from low to high with the shoulder.
Play a four or five a side game of full contact rugby. When a defender makes a side on tackle the attacking team keep the ball. If they make a front on tackle possession is turned over and the game continues.
The attacking team have to make it as difficult as possible for the defenders to make front on tackles.
The tackler drives the ball carrier back and onto the ground ending up on top of him.