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 Email Newsletters, Tackling
With the contact rugby not far away, you will be planning some form of tackling practice to fit into your training sessions. In these unusual times, you might find yourself almost reteaching tackling for some players. Even for more experienced players, they will need time to rediscover the safe, efficient and effective techniques and skills.... MORE
in Rugby drills, Tackling
If the tackler can get in front of the ball carrier just before the tackle, it’s easier to make shoulder contact. Young players in particular will benefit from this skill. This session develops simple defensive tracking skills so the defender gets in front of the attacker to make a two-handed touch. If they can do this, they should be in a good position to make a full tackle. MORE
in Rugby drills, Tackling
Work on what the tackler and tackled player do immediately after the tackle. Quick thinking players can create turnovers or prevent turnovers by their actions. This simple exercise can be built up over the season and aid basic tackle and post tackle skills. MORE
in Rugby drills, Tackling
Work on side-on tackles where the defenders are scrambling across to cover the attack. They will need to keep square so they don’t get sidestepped, and keep in the line with their team mates. Moving from a prone position means initially they will be disrupted and will have to find their positioning quickly. MORE
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
in Rugby drills, Tackling
Your approach to what you are looking for when you are coaching tackling will help you and your players focus on the right areas to improve their defensive capabilities. When I look at the tackle, I am predominantly outcome driven. If it works, then that is more important than if all the technical processes have been ticked off. MORE
