Tackling basics

Lesson Summary: This lesson plan titled "Tackling basics" in the field of Rugby is designed to teach students the fundamentals of tackling, including warm-up activities, technique demonstration, guided practice sessions, and cool-down activities emphasizing safety and proper form in a 90-minute session.
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Lesson Overview

Tackling basics

Welcome to an engaging lesson focused on mastering the basics of tackling in rugby. Throughout this 90-minute session, our goal is to equip students with the essential knowledge and skills needed to tackle effectively and safely in this dynamic sport. The lesson plan is designed to cover a comprehensive range of activities, starting with a dynamic warm-up to prepare students physically, followed by a detailed demonstration of proper tackling technique. Students will then engage in guided practice sessions to hone their skills in a controlled environment, emphasizing safety and correct form to prevent injuries. Lastly, a reflective cool-down activity will wrap up the lesson, ensuring students have the opportunity to internalize their learning and reinforce key concepts.

Key Objectives

  • Emphasize the importance of safety at all times during tackling drills
  • Ensure students have proper equipment such as mouthguards and appropriate footwear
  • Begin with a thorough warm-up to prepare students physically and mentally for the tackling drills
  • Demonstrate and explain proper tackling technique step by step before students practice
  • Monitor students closely during practice sessions to correct form and prevent injuries
  • Incorporate feedback and reflection during cool-down activities to reinforce learning and prevent muscle strain
Equipment required:
  • Rugby balls
  • Tackling pads or dummies
  • Cones for marking boundaries
  • Mouthguards for all students
  • Appropriate footwear for playing on the field
Step 1 of 4

Tackling basics

10 minutes
Lead students through a series of dynamic stretches and light cardio exercises to warm up their muscles and prepare them for physical activity.
Step 2 of 4

Tackling basics

15 minutes

Part 2: Demonstrating Proper Tackling Technique

In this part of the lesson, the focus is on demonstrating the proper technique for tackling in rugby. It is essential for students to understand key points such as body position, footwork, and target area when performing a tackle.

Begin by explaining and showing the correct body position for a tackle, emphasizing the importance of staying low and driving with the legs. Demonstrate how to position the head to the side to avoid injury.

Next, highlight the importance of footwork in a tackle. Show students how to step into the tackle with the front foot and drive their momentum forward.

Lastly, discuss the target area for a tackle, which is typically the midsection of the ball carrier. Emphasize the need to wrap the arms securely around the opponent to complete a safe and effective tackle.

Use visual aids and real-time demonstrations to reinforce these key points and allow students to ask questions for clarification. Encourage students to pay close attention to detail and practice the technique slowly and correctly before moving on to full-speed drills.

Step 3 of 4

Tackling basics

30 minutes

Guided Practice: Tackling Drills

Divide students into pairs and provide them with opportunities to practice tackling using tackling pads and proper safety equipment. Ensure that students understand the importance of safety and wearing the correct gear.

Encourage students to focus on their technique, such as body position, footwork, and target area. Walk around and provide individual feedback and guidance to help them improve their tackling skills.

Rotate pairs regularly so that each student has a chance to practice both tackling and being tackled. This will help them develop a well-rounded understanding of the skill.

Step 4 of 4

Tackling warmdown

10 minutes
Lead students through a series of static stretches and breathing exercises to cool down their muscles and reflect on their learning from the practice session. This cool-down activity is essential to help students gradually bring their heart rates down, prevent muscle soreness, and reflect on their tackling practice. Encourage students to focus on their breathing and relax their bodies as they stretch different muscle groups. This cool-down phase is crucial for injury prevention and allows students to internalize the lessons learned during the practice session.
Games
  • Game 1: Tackling Tag
    1. Divide the students into pairs, with one student as the tackler and the other as the runner.
    2. Set up a designated playing area.
    3. The tackler must tag the runner by touching them with both hands. This simulates a proper tackle without physical contact.
    4. If the tackler successfully tags the runner, they switch roles and continue playing.
    5. Encourage students to focus on proper technique and form while playing.
    6. Rotate partners and repeat the game for a set amount of time.
  • Game 2: Tackle Relay
    1. Divide the students into teams of 4-5 players.
    2. Set up cones or markers in a straight line, spaced about 5-10 meters apart.
    3. Each team forms a line behind the starting cone.
    4. The first player in line runs to the first cone, performs a proper tackle technique on an imaginary opponent, then runs back to tag the next player in line.
    5. Continue the relay with each player taking turns tackling and running.
    6. The team that completes the relay first wins.
  • Game 3: Tackle Drills
    1. Set up stations with different tackling drills, such as tackling pads, tackling dummies, or tackling bags.
    2. Divide the students into small groups and rotate them through each station.
    3. At each station, students practice proper tackling techniques under the guidance of a coach or teacher.
    4. Encourage students to focus on body positioning, footwork, and follow-through during the drills.
    5. Rotate groups through the stations to give everyone a chance to practice.