Can you show me how to tackle cleanly?

Rugby CoachCoach

Zul,

I think the best approach to take to tackling is that it is rarely done 'cleanly'. I'm not saying that players cheat, just that training ground tackles rarely equate to game time tackles.

For younger and new players, I would concentrate on confidence in the contact area. Start them off kneeling (adults too) and get them used to looking at the likely contact area (eyes open), connecting with their shoulder and that they get their arms around the ball carrier (wrapping up).

As players get more confident, I introduce wrestling games i.e. 1 player tries to remain on feet while other tries to get him to ground, both players on knees and 1 has to try to get to feet while the other has to stop him etc etc.

There are many fun games to introduce to keep it fun but educational and allow players plenty of opportunity to practice contact.

Rugby CoachCoach

building on from the first answer a circle of boys on one knee the opposite arm is held out horizontal and will be the "target" shoulder. 3 boys start outside of circle with a ball. first boy carries ball and runs at the target shoulder (see above) he is brought to ground by boy on knee and passes / pops / lays back ball for next boy who runs with ball to next boy around circle on his knee and process repeats. Good for tackle confidence and making tackled player thinking what he is trying to do with the ball, support running by players as well.

Rugby CoachCoach

Zul, I have just taken our Under 9's into contact and I have found it very useful to get them to think of 3 rules/guidelines%3A Get Close Get Low Squeeze Tight ("Ring of Steel") Explaining that they control the tackle - keeping their eyes open. Seems to be working. Good luck Tim