how do you side step properly

Simon JonesCoach, England

CJ

Here is a quick set of coaching hints for the Side Step:

The side step is used to fool the defender into trying to tackle the space where they thought you were going to be:

Key points:

• Run towards the defenders inside shoulder (this is the left side shoulder as they are facing you - if you are going to pass them to the right)
• Take short steps as you get near the defender to help you get the timing and balance right
• Change direction close to them by pushing sideways powerfully off the right foot to go left or the left foot to go right
• Think of your shoulders as the signal that fools the defender (they are facing the way you want the defender to think you are going but as you push off your front foot they turn to the new direction)

You have to be quick to accelerate away whilst the defender is wrong footed

I hope this helps you.

Simon

Josh MacyCoach, United States of America

One thing to look out for is hopping. Some players, especially ones with backgrounds in futbol, tend to hop. This is a weak move because both feet leave the ground, rendering the player vulnerable (if just for a second). Make sure they are taking powerful steps rather than small hops.

Gary DCoach, Northern Ireland

Hi cj,

Found a few video clips on the web:

http://www.expertvillage.com/video/3630_beginning-rugby-side-step.htm

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=QcbXLQxTGz8&feature=related

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=PdQyAJ9GMMA&feature=PlayList&p=5657B0EAD5B4A240&playnext=1&playnext_from=PL&index=68

Not exactly side step but related:

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=rvfngBZvESg&feature=related

Best Regards

Gary

Jeremy KerrTeacher, Ireland

As a lock I get a lot of stick about my ability to sidestep, but this footage helps me train it! [link removed] (check the bbc / sports acadmey) are some basic drills esp for the cover tackler coming in from the side at speed aiming for his man. get a line of attackers to run down a channel on a square grid, at the same time (or slightly delayed a defender leaves from the side (near the goal line) as the attacker nears the defender, use the tactics as outlined above to sidestep past the defender. This is a great way to start forwards thinking about evasion. hope it helps Jez