Sessions that develop better tackle height

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.

Here are four session ideas to develop footwork, body shapes, target areas and finishes for a variety of contact situations.

Up and tackle develops side-on tackles, where most tackles are low. With players recovering from a prone position, it reduces the speed of play, giving the less-confident a better chance to complete a tackle.

Boxer tackles to build better tackle technique is a step-by-step process from footwork to contact. This is a good warm-up exercise to move into a contact section.

A senior’s favourite, I’ve found Tackle testing is also popular with younger players too. Players can co-coach as well, as the exercises offers a good audience view.

Finally, in Tackle balance, you can really focus on tackle height when the tackler is not completely in control of their approach angles.