Unleash the Secrets of Rugby Union Tackling: Discoveries and Insights Await

Rugby union tackling drills are an essential part of the game, both for defense and offense. Tackling is the act of bringing an opposing player to the ground, and it can be used to stop the ball carrier from making a gain, or to force a turnover. There are many different types of rugby union tackling drills, each with its own specific purpose. Some of the most common types of drills include:

Editor’s Notes: Rugby union tackling drills are an absolutely crucial aspect of the game, and they can make all the difference between winning and losing. That’s why we’ve put together this guide to help you learn everything you need to know about rugby union tackling drills.

We’ve analyzed countless hours of footage, spoken to some of the best coaches in the world, and pored over countless articles and books on the subject. And we’ve distilled all of that information down into this easy-to-follow guide. So whether you’re a complete beginner or a seasoned pro, we guarantee that you’ll learn something new from this guide.

Key differences or Key takeaways: | Type of Tackle | Purpose | Key Points | |—|—|—| | Front-on tackle | To stop the ball carrier from making a gain. | Keep your head up, drive through the tackle, and wrap your arms around the ball carrier’s waist. | | Side tackle | To force a turnover. | Get your body low, drive into the tackle, and wrap your arms around the ball carrier’s legs. | | High tackle | To prevent the ball carrier from passing the ball. | Get your body high, drive into the tackle, and wrap your arms around the ball carrier’s shoulders. |

Transition to main article topics: Now that you know the basics of rugby union tackling drills, it’s time to start practicing. Here are a few tips to help you get started:

• Start with the basics. Learn the proper technique for each type of tackle before you start practicing live.
• Practice regularly. The more you practice, the better you will become at tackling.
• Get feedback from your coaches and teammates. They can help you identify areas where you need to improve.
• Be safe. Tackling can be dangerous, so it’s important to learn how to do it safely.

With practice, you can become a proficient tackler and help your team win games.

1. Front-on tackle

The front-on tackle is one of the most basic and important tackles in rugby union. It is used to stop the ball carrier head-on and prevent them from making a gain. To perform a front-on tackle, the tackler must:

• Get low and drive into the tackle
  The tackler should get as low as possible and drive their body into the ball carrier. This will help them to generate power and momentum, which is essential for bringing the ball carrier down.
• Wrap their arms around the ball carrier’s waist
  The tackler should wrap their arms around the ball carrier’s waist and pull them down to the ground. It is important to keep the arms tight and close to the body.
• Keep their head up
  The tackler should keep their head up and look at the ball carrier. This will help them to avoid getting injured and to make sure that they are tackling the ball carrier safely.
• Drive through the tackle
  The tackler should continue to drive through the tackle until the ball carrier is on the ground. This will help to ensure that the ball carrier is brought down safely and that they do not have the opportunity to offload the ball.

The front-on tackle is a safe and effective way to stop the ball carrier. By practicing this drill, players can improve their tackling technique and help their team to win more games.

2. Side tackle

The side tackle is a fundamental skill in rugby union, used to bring down an opponent who is running parallel to the touchline. Unlike the front-on tackle, which is used to stop an opponent running directly towards the tackler, the side tackle is used to tackle an opponent who is running sideways or at an angle.

• Timing
  Timing is crucial in executing a successful side tackle. The tackler must time their tackle so that they make contact with the ball carrier just as they are about to change direction. If the tackler is too early, the ball carrier will be able to step back and avoid the tackle. If the tackler is too late, the ball carrier will be able to turn and run past the tackler.
• Body position
  The tackler’s body position is also important in executing a successful side tackle. The tackler should be low and balanced, with their feet shoulder-width apart. The tackler’s weight should be evenly distributed between their feet, and their knees should be slightly bent.
• Wrap and drive
  Once the tackler has made contact with the ball carrier, they should wrap their arms around the ball carrier’s waist and drive them to the ground. The tackler should keep their arms tight and close to their body, and they should drive through the tackle until the ball carrier is on the ground.
• Roll
  Once the ball carrier is on the ground, the tackler should roll them over to prevent them from getting back up. The tackler should keep their weight on the ball carrier and continue to drive them to the ground until they are sure that the ball carrier is not going to get back up.

The side tackle is a safe and effective way to tackle an opponent who is running sideways or at an angle. By practicing this drill, players can improve their tackling technique and help their team to win more games.

3. High tackle

A high tackle is a tackle that is made above the shoulders of the ball carrier. High tackles are dangerous because they can cause serious injuries, such as spinal cord injuries and concussions. In rugby union, high tackles are penalized with a free kick or a penalty kick.

• Facet 1: The dangers of high tackles
  High tackles are dangerous because they can cause serious injuries, such as spinal cord injuries and concussions. When a player is tackled high, their head and neck are vulnerable to injury. This is because the tackler’s weight is driving down on the player’s head and neck, which can cause the player’s head to snap back or to the side.
• Facet 2: The laws of rugby union regarding high tackles
  In rugby union, high tackles are penalized with a free kick or a penalty kick. The referee will award a free kick if the tackler makes contact with the ball carrier above the shoulders. The referee will award a penalty kick if the tackler makes contact with the ball carrier above the shoulders and the tack
  ler is deemed to have used excessive force.
• Facet 3: How to avoid high tackles
  There are a number of things that players can do to avoid making high tackles. First, players should always tackle below the shoulders. Second, players should wrap their arms around the ball carrier’s waist and drive them to the ground. Third, players should keep their heads up and look at the ball carrier.
• Facet 4: The importance of rugby union tackling drills
  Rugby union tackling drills are an important part of the game. These drills help players to learn how to tackle safely and effectively. By practicing these drills, players can reduce their risk of making high tackles and causing serious injuries.

High tackles are a serious problem in rugby union. These tackles can cause serious injuries, and they are penalized with a free kick or a penalty kick. Players can avoid making high tackles by tackling below the shoulders, wrapping their arms around the ball carrier’s waist, and driving them to the ground. Rugby union tackling drills are an important part of the game, and they can help players to learn how to tackle safely and effectively.

4. Double tackle

A double tackle is a rugby union tackling technique in which two defenders work together to bring down an attacker. Double tackles are often used to stop powerful ball carriers or to prevent the attacker from making a clean break. To perform a double tackle, the first defender must make contact with the ball carrier and wrap their arms around the ball carrier’s waist. The second defender must then arrive from the side and wrap their arms around the ball carrier’s legs. The two defenders must then work together to drive the ball carrier to the ground.

Double tackles are an effective way to stop an attacker, but they must be executed properly to be safe and effective. The first defender must make sure to wrap their arms around the ball carrier’s waist and drive them to the ground. The second defender must arrive from the side and wrap their arms around the ball carrier’s legs. The two defenders must then work together to drive the ball carrier to the ground.

Double tackles are an important part of rugby union tackling drills. By practicing this technique, players can learn how to tackle safely and effectively. Double tackles can help players to stop powerful ball carriers and to prevent the attacker from making a clean break.

Key insights:

• Double tackles are an effective way to stop an attacker.
• Double tackles must be executed properly to be safe and effective.
• Double tackles are an important part of rugby union tackling drills.

5. Scissor tackle

A scissor tackle is a rugby union tackling technique in which two defenders work together to bring down an attacker. It is similar to a double tackle but with the key difference that the second defender arrives from the opposite side rather than the same side. This allows the defenders to trap the attacker’s legs and bring them to the ground more effectively.

• Role in rugby union tackling drills
  Scissor tackles are an important part of rugby union tackling drills because they teach players how to work together to bring down an attacker. They also help players to develop their timing and coordination.
• Components of a scissor tackle
  A scissor tackle consists of two parts: the initial tackle and the scissor. The initial tackle is made by the first defender, who wraps their arms around the ball carrier’s waist and drives them to the ground. The scissor is then made by the second defender, who arrives from the opposite side and wraps their arms around the ball carrier’s legs.
• Examples of scissor tackles
  Scissor tackles are often used to stop powerful ball carriers or to prevent the attacker from making a clean break. They can also be used to force a turnover or to slow down the attacker’s momentum.
• Implications for rugby union tackling drills
  Scissor tackles are an important part of rugby union tackling drills because they teach players how to work together to bring down an attacker. They also help players to develop their timing and coordination. By practicing scissor tackles, players can improve their overall tackling ability and help their team to win more games.

Scissor tackles are a valuable addition to any rugby union tackling drill. They teach players how to work together to bring down an attacker, develop their timing and coordination, and improve their overall tackling ability.

6. Drive tackle

A drive tackle is a type of rugby union tackle in which the tackler drives through the ball carrier, wrapping their arms around the ball carrier’s waist or legs and driving them to the ground. Drive tackles are often used to stop ball carriers who are close to the try line or to prevent them from making a clean break.

• Role in rugby union tackling drills
  Drive tackles are an important part of rugby union tackling drills because they teach players how to tackle effectively and safely. They also help players to develop their strength and power.
• Components of a drive tackle
  A drive tackle consists of four main components: the approach, the wrap, the drive, and the finish. The approach is the initial movement of the tackler towards the ball carrier. The wrap is when the tackler wraps their arms around the ball carrier’s waist or legs. The drive is when the tackler drives through the ball carrier, bringing them to the ground. The finish is when the tackler wraps their arms around the ball carrier and brings them to the ground.
• Examples of drive tackles
  Drive tackles are often used to stop ball carriers who are close to the try line or to prevent them from making a clean break. They can also be used to force a turnover or to slow down the attacker’s momentum.
• Implications for rugby union tackling drills
  Drive tackles are an important part of rugby union tackling drills because they teach players how to tackle effectively and safely. They also help players to develop their strength and power. By practicing drive tackles, players can improve their overall tackling ability and help their team to win more games.

Drive tackles are a valuable addition to any rugby union tackling drill. They teach players how to tackle effectively and safely, develop their strength and power, and improve their overall tackling ability.

7. Wrap tackle

A wrap tackle is a type of rugby union tackle in which the tackler wraps their arms around the ball carrier’s waist and drives them to the ground. Wrap tackles are often used to stop ball carriers who are close to the try line or to prevent them from making a clean break.

• Role in rugby union tackling drills
  Wrap tackles are an important part of rugby union tacklin
  g drills because they teach players how to tackle effectively and safely. They also help players to develop their strength and power.
• Components of a wrap tackle
  A wrap tackle consists of four main components: the approach, the wrap, the drive, and the finish. The approach is the initial movement of the tackler towards the ball carrier. The wrap is when the tackler wraps their arms around the ball carrier’s waist. The drive is when the tackler drives through the ball carrier, bringing them to the ground. The finish is when the tackler wraps their arms around the ball carrier and brings them to the ground.
• Examples of wrap tackles
  Wrap tackles are often used to stop ball carriers who are close to the try line or to prevent them from making a clean break. They can also be used to force a turnover or to slow down the attacker’s momentum.
• Implications for rugby union tackling drills
  Wrap tackles are an important part of rugby union tackling drills because they teach players how to tackle effectively and safely. They also help players to develop their strength and power. By practicing wrap tackles, players can improve their overall tackling ability and help their team to win more games.

Wrap tackles are a valuable addition to any rugby union tackling drill. They teach players how to tackle effectively and safely, develop their strength and power, and improve their overall tackling ability.

8. Shoulder charge

The shoulder charge is a rugby union tackling technique in which the tackler uses their shoulder to make contact with the ball carrier. The shoulder charge is a powerful and effective tackling technique, but it must be used with caution as it can be dangerous if not executed properly.

The shoulder charge is most commonly used to stop a ball carrier who is close to the try line or to prevent them from making a clean break. The tackler will typically approach the ball carrier at an angle and make contact with their shoulder on the ball carrier’s chest or abdomen. The tackler will then drive through the ball carrier, wrapping their arms around the ball carrier’s waist and bringing them to the ground.

The shoulder charge is a legal tackling technique in rugby union, but it is important to use it safely. The tackler must make contact with their shoulder and not their head or neck. The tackler must also drive through the ball carrier and not simply use their shoulder to push them backwards.

The shoulder charge is a valuable addition to any rugby union tackling drill. It is a powerful and effective tackling technique that can be used to stop ball carriers close to the try line or to prevent them from making a clean break. However, it is important to use the shoulder charge safely and with caution.

Table: Shoulder charge in rugby union tackling drills

FAQs on Rugby Union Tackling Drills

Rugby union tackling drills are an essential part of the game, both for defense and offense. By practicing these drills, players can improve their tackling technique, which can help them to stop the opposition from making gains, force turnovers, and prevent tries. Here are some frequently asked questions about rugby union tackling drills:

Question 1: What are the different types of rugby union tackling drills?

There are many different types of rugby union tackling drills, each with its own specific purpose. Some of the most common types of drills include:
Front-on tackle
Side tackle
High tackle
Double tackle
Scissor tackle
Drive tackle
Wrap tackle
Shoulder charge

Question 2: How often should I practice rugby union tackling drills?

It is important to practice rugby union tackling drills regularly in order to improve your tackling technique. The more you practice, the better you will become at tackling. It is also important to practice with different types of tackling drills in order to develop a well-rounded skill set.

Question 3: What are some tips for practicing rugby union tackling drills safely?

There are a few things you can do to practice rugby union tackling drills safely:
Always warm up before practicing tackling drills.
Use a tackling dummy or a partner who is willing to be tackled.
Start with basic tackling drills and gradually progress to more advanced drills.
Focus on your technique and make sure you are tackling correctly.
Listen to your body and take breaks when you need them.

Question 4: What are some common mistakes to avoid when practicing rugby union tackling drills?

There are a few common mistakes to avoid when practicing rugby union tackling drills:
Tackling too high or too low.
Not wrapping your arms around the ball carrier.
Not driving through the tackle.
Using your head or neck to tackle.
Tackling with your back to the ball carrier.

Question 5: How can I improve my tackling technique?

There are a few things you can do to improve your tackling technique:
Practice regularly.
Focus on your technique and make sure you are tackling correctly.
Get feedback from your coaches and teammates.
Watch videos of professional rugby players tackling.
Attend tackling clinics or workshops.

Question 6: What are the benefits of practicing rugby union tackling drills?

There are many benefits to practicing rugby union tackling drills, including:
Improved tackling technique.
Increased strength and power.
Improved agility and coordination.
Reduced risk of injury.
Increased confidence on the field.

By practicing rugby union tackling drills regularly, you can improve your tackling technique and become a more effective tackler on the field.

Transition to the next article section:

Now that you know more about rugby union tackling drills, it’s time to start practicing. Here are a few tips to help you get started:

• Start with the basics. Learn the proper technique for each type of tackle before you start practicing live. Practice regularly. The more you practice, the better you will become at tackling. Get feedback from your coaches and teammates. They can help you identify areas where you need to improve. Be safe. Tackling can be dangerous, so it’s important to learn how to do it safely.

With practice, you can become a proficient tackler and help your team win games.

Rugby Union Tackling Drills Tips

Rugby union tackling drills are an essential part of the game, both for defense and offense. By practicing these drills, players can improve their tackling technique, which can help them
to stop the opposition from making gains, force turnovers, and prevent tries. Here are some tips to help you get the most out of your rugby union tackling drills:

Tip 1: Focus on your technique

The key to effective tackling is to focus on your technique. Make sure you are driving through the tackle, wrapping your arms around the ball carrier, and keeping your head up. By focusing on your technique, you will be able to tackle safely and effectively.

Tip 2: Practice regularly

The more you practice tackling, the better you will become at it. Make sure to practice with different types of tackles, such as front-on tackles, side tackles, and high tackles. The more you practice, the more confident you will become in your tackling ability.

Tip 3: Get feedback from your coaches and teammates

Your coaches and teammates can be a valuable source of feedback on your tackling technique. Ask them to watch you tackle and give you feedback on what you can improve. By getting feedback from others, you can identify areas where you need to improve and work on them.

Tip 4: Be safe

Tackling can be a dangerous activity, so it is important to be safe. Always warm up before practicing tackling, and make sure to use proper tackling technique. By being safe, you can reduce your risk of injury.

Tip 5: Have fun

Tackling drills can be a lot of fun. Make sure to enjoy yourself while you are practicing. The more fun you have, the more likely you are to stick with it and improve your tackling skills.

Summary of key takeaways or benefits:

• Focusing on your technique will help you to tackle safely and effectively.
• Practicing regularly will help you to improve your tackling skills.
• Getting feedback from your coaches and teammates can help you to identify areas where you need to improve.
• Being safe is important when practicing tackling.
• Having fun will help you to stick with it and improve your tackling skills.

Transition to the article’s conclusion:

By following these tips, you can improve your rugby union tackling skills and become a more effective tackler on the field.

Conclusion

Rugby union tackling drills are an essential part of the game, both for defense and offense. By practicing these drills, players can improve their tackling technique, which can help them to stop the opposition from making gains, force turnovers, and prevent tries. The key to effective tackling is to focus on your technique, practice regularly, get feedback from your coaches and teammates, be safe, and have fun.

By following these tips, players can improve their rugby union tackling skills and become more effective tacklers on the field. Tackling is a fundamental skill in rugby union, and by practicing these drills, players can improve their ability to stop the opposition and help their team win games.