Tackle session ideal for school coaches

Students and their parents are increasingly expressing their concerns around the tackle.

The new tackle laws have brought this into sharp relief. However, they offer a chance to allay fears and bring players back to the game. 

My approach, based on my coaching reflections, is that short sessions are best. The focus is to embed the skill of tackling.

This particular session looks at one aspect - a tight ear. Why? Because a tight ear means the shoulder is engaged.

At a walking pace, it allows players to learn the new requirements of the tackle-height laws safely and effectively. The player then adapts accordingly.

CHALLENGES

• A tall player learning to tackle correctly rather than through brute force.
• The defender growing in confidence with every tackle.

SET UP

One 15m box (adjust size to suit your numbers), one ball, coloured bibs (if available).

HOW TO PLAY

• Split into two teams, around eight players each. One group defends, the other attacks. 
• Rather than ’touch’ players to force a pass, defending players must connect their ear with the attacking player carrying the ball to count as a tackle. 
• Coach should act as a referee shouting ‘tackle’, if successful. If not, the attacking player can carry on walking forward.
• Attacking player should go down and present the ball for play to resume. 
• The next player passes the ball on. 
• The defensive team making six successful tackles results in a turnover. 

TECHNIQUE

• Get low in the tackle.
• Connect ear on hip. 
• Run straight.