Players stand 5 metres apart, only the attacking player moves in this drill, the tackler remains still as their partner approaches.
As the player gets close the tackler should keep their head up and engage the runner with either their left or right shoulder.
Holding around their knees tightly and driving with their shoulder they should allow the player to fall over their shoulder to floor.
Defenders should:
Stay slightly crouched as they wait for tackle, keeping their feet moving at shoulder's width.
Sink hips in squatting action and keep their head up.
Place their foot between the legs of their partner and engage the same shoulder in the tackle (right foot and right shoulder).
Allow the player to fall past you and roll back over the player, pushing down with their hands on the tackled player. Using their hands on the tackled player press (like in a press up) to return to their feet and compete for ball again.
in more ways than one
sportplan_netball
in more ways than one
sportplan_rugby
Tacklers are aiming lower, so carriers who dip late put heads at risk. Teach footwork, a strong early body height and leg drive to win the collision safely.
The hooker's brake foot moved from trial into full law in July 2026. Here is how to coach it so your front row stays stable, legal and safe.
Your players can pass beautifully in a warm-up grid. Then a defender closes, their lungs are burning, and the ball goes to ground. Here is how to build catch-pass skills that hold up when it matters.
