Tackling drills proving a big hit for Molloy
AT the beginning of the 2017/’18 season, Connacht Rugby held the inaugural TackleSmart Workshop with over 120 coaches from across the province in attendance.
The workshop was designed to address player safety concerns by emphasising the importance of coaching tackle technique.
Connacht Rugby Coach Development Officers delivered the practical element of the workshop, demonstrating the various games and drills that can be used to improve the fundamentals of the tackle.
The key components of the workshop included the ‘Clenched fist Tackle Drill’ – encouraging players to hit with their shoulder then wrap their arms – and the ‘Swiss Ball Tackle Game’ which promotes low tackling.
The ultimate success of the TackleSmart workshop will be the number of coaches introducing the various activities to their sessions throughout the province with an impact already being seen.
Connacht Rugby Coach Development Manager Eamonn Molloy has been delighted with the impact that the workshop has already made.
“The response has been overwhelming positive with some clubs already introducing the ‘Swiss Ball Tackling Drill’, to encourage players tackle low,” he said.
“Others are actively promoting the concept of players holding tennis balls when tackling to discourage players from grabbing jerseys and instead focus on the tackling technique. These examples are innovative ways of developing safe tackle technique.”
In commending clubs for the engagement levels so far, Molloy added: “Well done to all coaches who are actively promoting their players in correct tackling technique, it transforms their experience of the game.”