Tackling from the hip

WHY USE IT

The best tacklers read the movements of the ball carrier and anticipate where they are going. This session improves anticipation skills by focusing on the core of the ball carrier.

SET UP

Some 7m x 4m corridors, a tackle tube and balls.

HOW TO PLAY

Activity: Split players into pairs; one player is the tackler, the other the ball carrier (a ball is optional). The pairs move around slowly. Shout “Tackle!” – the tackler moves into the ball carrier and lifts them up at the hips, using a ‘bear hug’. They take two steps and then put the player down on their feet. Reiterate the coaching points, swap round and repeat, until all players are comfortable with the techniques. Develop by having the ball carrier move around.

Development: A ball carrier is at one end of a 7m x 4m box; a tackler is at the other. The ball carrier tries to beat the tackler, while staying in the channel.

Game situation: Two attackers start at one end of a 10m square, with a feeder by a tackle tube just outside the square. Two defenders are at the other end. Feed the attackers and let play develop. Swap attack and defence after a try or infringement. Increase the width of the box, but bring in additional players only when the defenders are using the right techniques.

COACHING POINTS

• Stay upright and focused on the core of the ball carrier.
• Step in and dip down and up quickly.
• Lock the arms in contact. 

ACTIVITY

1. When you shout “Tackle!”, the tackler steps into the attacker

2. The tackler dips, bending at the knees

3. The tackler picks up the attacker, and then puts them down

DEVELOPMENT

1. The attacker aims to beat the ball carrier inside a narrow corridor
2. Use grab tackling to start with

GAME SITUATION

1. Two defenders come forward to protect their try line

2. Two attackers receive a pass from a receiver and aim to score over the far end