EXPERT SESSIONS AND ADVICE FROM QUALIFIED AND EXPERIENCED GRASSROOTS RUGBY COACHES
Target
The tackler targets the opposition player’s waist. He needs to get low in order to get under any potential hand off.
Keep moving
The tackler keeps moving forward and has to get in front of the ball carrier. Just before contact he should set himself in a strong crouched position with one foot slightly in front of the other.
Head up
The head stays up, with the eyes looking at the target until contact is made.
Shoulder, head, arms
Contact is made with the shoulder. The head tucks in tight to the hip and the arms form a tight band round the thighs.
Roll back
From the strong crouch position just before contact, the tackler rolls back using the ball carrier’s momentum to bring them to ground.
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 Email Newsletters, Tackling
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. 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
