Skip to content

Tackle Decision Reactions Drill

Description

Tackle technique drill focusing on decision-making and reaction to adjust feet and direction to make effective front-on tackle on correct attacker.

Purpose

Working on rapid decision-making and reaction to dynamic attacking threats. Changing of tackler's focus and direction based on coach's call. Aim is to complete an effective front on tackle on the correct attacker, and as close to 'gainline' (5m) as possible.

Learning Outcomes

  • Speed off the line in defence
  • Decision-making under pressure
  • Chopping feet to 'tread water' before committing to tackle
  • Body control for effective tackle execution depending on attacker speed/direction

Equipment

  • Cones
  • 2 x Tackle pads

Setup

  • Two players with bags on side-line (Attackers)
  • 1 Tackler on starter cone, 3m from 5m line
  • On whistle, both bag holders accelerate towards 5m line.
  • Coach behind tackler indicates which attacker to continue.
  • Attacker signalled breaks 5m line and other stops before the line.
  • Tackler sprints forward, makes tackle on attacker breaking 5m line.

Tackle Decision Setup