EXPERT SESSIONS AND ADVICE FROM QUALIFIED AND EXPERIENCED GRASSROOTS RUGBY COACHES
Tackling drills are the single most important part of your training; it’s vital that you prepare your players to tackle safely. These tackling drills are tried, tested and proven to be the most effective ways to introduce and develop tackling skills.
in Footwork and evasion, Practice plans, Tackling
“Same shoulder, same foot” is one method of making a powerful tackle, because it maximises the power through the body and into the tackle. It requires good technique and good timing, both of which this session works on. MORE
The RFU coaching development arm has just launched a new e-learning course on tackling to help support coaches, players and referees. It works well as an introductory tool for those new to tackling, but actually, all will find this extremely useful. MORE
The tackler can play an important role in winning turnover ball, but only if he can get to his feet quickly after making the tackle. This sessions uses simple exercises to improve the reaction times of your tacklers. It will help them to get up and get back into the game, to “complete the tackle” and compete for the ball. MORE
in Defence, Rugby drills, Tackling
Shuffling and cross-over steps are essential skills for a defender to react to a change of direction of an attacker. Work on these in the development of your players’ tackling progression. MORE
in Defence, Rugby drills, Tackling
Tackling in pairs helps players work together to bring down the ball carrier, and gives weaker players the confidence to make a contribution in the tackle. MORE
in Defence, Rugby drills, Tackling
Complete the tackle by getting back into position to challenge for the ball, but under pressure. Know the tackle rights but also what the referee looks for. The tackler can’t enter the tackle contest from any angle. They must come through the “gate”, just any other player. They can also easily be penalised if they goes... MORE
in Defence, Rugby drills, Tackling
Help the second defender at the tackle situation choose whether to make a difference at the tackle or leave it alone to be ready for the next tackle. Defenders need to trust their team mates to make a tackle. They should only step in if they feel the tackler is beaten or they can create... MORE
All players can be more effective in the tackle area, but what are the top players doing that your players can also copy and use in games. Here are two ideas to work on in training... MORE
in Rugby coaching videos, Rugby drills, Tackling
Improve tackle technique and conditioning in this competitive drill. Note that you should encourage good technique throughout, penalising players who simply dive into the tackle tubes. MORE
in Attack, Rugby drills, Small-sided games, Tackling
Every player needs the confidence to carry the ball against all shapes and sizes. Use this activity to give your players lots of opportunities to test out what works. Because the players will face lots of different opponents they can try out different techniques to beat the player in front of them. Some of these... MORE
