4 tackling footwork activities

1. SQUARE BALL

A defender runs round into the box. Using, preferably, a ‘push off the chest pass’, the coach or another player aims to bounce a football (not a rugby ball) onto the chest of that player.

The pass must be made before the defender is closer than 3m away.

The defender scores a point for preventing the ball touching the chest, and three points for catching the ball without it touching the chest.

Key outcomes:

• Hands up
• Head up  
• Keeping square

2. CORNER PUSH

Ruck pad-holders stand on one corner of the box, with defenders on the opposite corner.

The pad-holder jogs into the middle of the box, keeping the pad facing up the pitch. At the same time, the defender jogs into the box and uses a two-hand push on the pad.

Develop with a strong shoulder drive, with a grab.

Key outcomes:

• Hands up  
• Keep square  
• Feet under body to make strong push

3. TWO-POLE

Two defenders come from the corner of the box to close down two attackers. The attackers can pass and dodge.

The defenders win by grabbing the ball. If an attacker turns towards the sideline, or runs backwards, they also lose.

Key outcomes:

• Getting square quickly 
• Teamwork and communication

4. UP AND SHOULDER

A defender lies on the ground. An attacker jogs along a line. 

The defender gets up and aims to get their shoulder into the shorts level of the attacker, with their arms wrapped around. 

The head must be behind the shorts. There’s no need to complete the tackle.

Increase the pace as players become more confident.

Key outcomes:

• Getting close
• Proper targeting