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.
Put two defenders at one end of the box facing away from an attacker at the other end. The attacker moves from side to side.
When you shout “TURN”, the defenders turn around and aim to touch-tackle the attacker before he makes it to the other end of the box. The ball carrier comes forward immediately.
DEVELOPMENTS
Initially develop by starting the attacker further forward, or even having two attackers, so defenders have to identify the ball carrier as well as then closing him down.
Allow full tackling.
Finally develop by working in a longer box, with the try line in the middle. The defenders turn to defend against one attacker coming from one end and then sprint back to defend against an attacker coming from the other end.
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
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
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
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
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
