IRB Beginner's Guide to Rugby - IRB Rugby Ready

COACHING TIPS
Poorly executed tackles tend to be the result of poor positioning by the tackler rather than poor tackle
technique. Correct positioning can and should be practised. It involves the tackler closing down the ball
carrier’s space and then establishing balance and stability before stepping in close with the lead foot to allow
shoulder and arm contact, which should then allow leg drive in the tackle.
• Use the key points to improve the players’ tackle skills in a safe manner
• Focus on one or two key points at a time - don’t try to coach too many key factors at once
• Observe and analyse players to highlight good practice and correct faults
• Provide positive and constructive feedback to improve players
• Construct coaching sessions to encourage progressive development, and build confidence
• An example of the tackle progression for the side-on tackle is as follows:
- Ball carrier kneel - tackler kneel (only for side-on tackle to demonstrate head position)
- Ball carrier stand - tackler kneel (encourage leg drive)
- Ball carrier walk - tackler on one knee
- Ball carrier stand - tackler squat
- Ball carrier walk - tackler squat
- Ball carrier walk - tackler walk
- Ball carrier run - tackler run
• Avoid gender, size, age and experience mismatches when introducing and developing skills
• Ensure players practise in sufficient space to avoid accidental collisions with unseen players
REFEREE TIPS
View video examples at www.irbrugbyready.com/en/tackle
Visit the IRB’s Law Education web site at www.irblaws.com
Check that:
• The tackle is made below the shoulder line
• The tackler uses the arms to grab and hold the ball carrier
• If the ball carrier is lifted off the ground, they are brought back to ground safely
• The tackler releases the tackled player
• The tackled player passes, places or releases the ball immediately
• Both players get to their feet
• Arriving players enter the tackle zone through the correct gate
• Arriving players remain on their feet
Watch for:
• Players who charge or obstruct opponents who are not near the ball
• Dangerous tackles (in your judgement as the referee) and high tackles (as defined in Law). Dangerous and high
tackles must not be tolerated and must be sanctioned. Any tackles which make contact with the neck or head
should be dealt with strictly.
www.irbrugbyready.com
IRB Rugby Ready / Tackle
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