HOW TO TACKLE THE PROBLEM

Tackling is a basic skill that every player must be able to execute properly. Otherwise the consequences will be disastrous. With youth football coaching drills, I would like to focus on three methods of tackling.

THE BLOCK TACKLE:

 

The block tackle is used when confronting an opponent head on. Timing is crucial and players need understand when to make this tackle. If the opponent is off balance or has allowed the ball to run too far in front, then making a block tackle is simple. The technique works as follows:

1)      Ensure that the non-tackling foot is firmly on the ground to act as an anchor.

2)      Let the tackling foot make contact with the middle of the ball like you would a side-foot pass.

3)      Keep your body forward and your knees bent.

4)      Ensure that your knee and ankle are locked and that you are balanced.

5)      Commit to the tackle and put a foot under the ball to lift it away.

THE POKE TACKLE:

The poke tackle is simply knocking the ball away from the opposing attacker so that it either goes out of play or you are able to win the ball back. This is an effective tackle as it throws the attacker off guard and can allow for a counter attack. It’s done as follows:

1)      Approach the attacker from the side.

2)      Use the foot nearest to the ball.

3)      Extend the foot from the side or through the opponent’s legs.

4)      Stab the ball away using the toes to kick near its center.

5)      Ensure that the body is balanced and avoid tripping up the opposing player.

THE SLIDE TACKLE:

The slide tackle is similar to the poke tackle and is effective in tacking the ball away from opposing attackers who you know are very fast. The tackle is done as follows:

1)      Run towards the person you want to tackle.

2)      Try to lead with the foot that is nearest to the opponent and ball. This allows you to reach the ball quickly.

3)      Slide down to the ground extend your leg out, poking the ball away from the opponent. Hit the ball from the front and onto the opposing players legs.

4)      Ensure that contact is made with the ball to avoid committing a foul.

REMEMBER – It’s not just your defenders that need to know how to tackle. Every player must tackle opposing players and ensure that the pressure is always on your opponents.

Cheers for now.

Mike