Low tackling

Low tackles stop the progress of ball carriers. While they are more difficult to avoid, they also require more courage on the part of the tackler. So use this session to encourage good technique, but also create greater confidence in the tackle.

Warm up time: 5-7
Session time: 8-10
Development time: 8-10
Game time: 15-20
Warm down time: 5-7

What to think about

This session uses a learning style that works backwards. That is, the practice starts with the tackle almost complete. It then develops with the previous element of the tackle technique being introduced. The sequence is:

1. In the tackle position just before taking the ball carrier to ground. Shoulder and arms are engaged with the ball carrier, with the head behind and foot close to the target.
2. The position just before stepping into the tackle. The tackler’s eyes are on the target, with the body bent at the hips and arms out ready to wrap around.
3. Moving into the tackle. Balanced running, on the balls of the feet, with eyes on the target.

Make sure step one is correct before moving on to step two, and so on.

set-up

1. Aim at the shorts with your shoulder.
2. Step in close to the ball carrier.
3. Keep your eyes open, drive in the shoulder, wrap around with the arms and hold tight!

What you get your players to do

Place one player, holding a ball in both hands and with his feet together, next to a ruck pad on the ground (optional). Put another player (the tackler) to the other side in a crouched position, with his front foot next to the ball carrier and his arms nearly, but not quite, wrapped around the ball carrier. Ask the tackler to grab and complete the tackle with the ball carrier falling into the ruck pad. Progress by:

1. The tackler has his arms at the side, before grabbing and tackling.
2. The tackler is one step away from the ball carrier, so he steps, grabs and tackles.
3. The tackler walks in to make the tackle.
4. The ball carrier walks and the tackler tackles him into the ruck pad.