Spin out of contact

WHY USE IT

Although spinning before contact slows a ball carrier down a little, and is less confrontational, there are occasions when it can allow them to break free from a defender and move into a space.

SET UP

Use a 10m square, with three tackle tubes 5m apart (as per the top illustration). You can use ruck pads, a static player or a circle of cones. Four balls are needed.

HOW TO PLAY

Activity: Set the tackle tubes in a triangle pattern, as shown. A player runs at the first tube and spins left or right. They then spin the opposite way as they approach the second tube, into the gap between the second line of tubes. This means they must step off both feet in quick succession.

Development: Get the ball carrier to change hands in between spins. Introduce players to replace tackle tubes – ask them to slap any ball they see to ensure the spin is technically correct.

COACHING POINTS

• Ask players to pivot on the foot area behind their big toe. This will ensure they have their heels off the ground and allows them to change direction in quick succession. Placing their whole foot on the ground will not make the spin as dynamic as it should be.
• Make each player aware of which side you feel they are weakest at – they can then concentrate on that while completing the activity.

1. The ball carrier, with the ball in two hands, attacks the first tackle tube

1. The ball carrier then spins left or right
   
   

1. They attack the next tube, spinning in the opposite direction, so they go through the middle of the tubes

2. Ensure the ball is carried in two hands and, just before the spin, the ball stays away from the pad/player throughout the movement. Doing this in a passive environment is good practice before they use 
   it in matches