Kneeling Tackle Progression

Setup

Cones on soft flat grass, an optional ball, and a partner of similar size and experience. Agree a stop word before you start.

How to run it

1. The tackler starts on their knees with attackers beside cones 2m away, and makes three tackles - two side-on and one front-on - before rotating.
2. Keep your eyes on the hips as the attacker approaches, place your head behind them for a side-on tackle and to one side for a front-on, make firm contact with the shoulder and thrust your arms forward around them.
3. Progress only one stage at a time and hold each for at least two full sessions: both kneeling, then tackler kneeling with the attacker walking, then jogging, then running, then repeat all of it from a crouch.
4. Practise both shoulders equally - a player who can only tackle off one side ends up with their head on the wrong side under pressure.