Rugby Tackling

Question
QUESTION: Hi,im 14 and about 1.68 metres.I can easily tackle from the side at a persons thighs but i have trubble when someone charges at me head on,do i turn and tackle from the side? or do i run into his knees????

ANSWER: tackling head on is no different from side of back tackling, basically its all in the mind. From the side or front its easy because you cant see the persons face. So the solution to this is to look at the body of the person and aim low legs or ankles. When I was coached playing Rugby League the coach always said to take the opposition player out of the game by not letting him get in your head....Tackling is not a magic trick its you against him! if you think he is better than you, he will get past. Hit him hard the first time and he will be reluctant to go through you.  

The best way to develop tackling skills is to practise against a partner in a kneeling position and then gradually progress to walking, jogging and finally full-paced full contact with Body Suits and shields and then full tackling. Another consideration is to introduce tackling on soft ground or spongy gym mats.

Hope that helps

---------- FOLLOW-UP ----------

QUESTION: Yea thanks but im asking do i turn aside and then tackle from the side at the thigh or do i run at him head on until he turns aside?

Answer
Ok, If it was me...I would move up on the running player as soon as I could and aim for his middle or ankles (this is head on)usually going really low will make a player hesitate or will make him try to step you. When you are aiming for the middle make sure your legs are bent, your back is straight and your head is up. You are aiming to hit his middle or ankles with your shoulder. As he get closer, get ready to move your head to the side and aim your should into the middle, driving with your legs. (almost like a dive) if you move up quick enough you will stop him cold and drive him back.

The important parts are 1, body position & timing. Don,t make him come to you, as this will build up momentum for him, try to cut down his options.

If he is big and has a habit of fending of players, you will need to go lower. If he still breaks through double team him with another player.

Hope that helps