Managing the Tackle

Defining the tackle?

The Gate…

What the Tackler Wants?

Stop ball carrier’s progress Steal the ball Slow the opposition’s ball and wait for

help

What the Tackler Can Do:

Release the tackled player and move away

Regain feet and play ball directly, no need for “gate” (first tackler only)

Leave tackle/ruck area and get onside

What the Tackled Player Wants

Recycle the ball to teammates Not let opposition steal the ball Hang on until help arrives

What the Tackled Player Can Do:

Pass the ball, without delay Post the ball in any direction (can score) Release the ball, get up and play the ball Roll away

Arriving players

Arriving players: Defenders want to

Poach the ball Slow down the attackers ball Kill the ball Ruck over and win the ball Set defense to stop pick and drive or SH

pick

Arriving players: Support players want to

Clear away defenders Seal the ball from opposition “Tip” possible poachers so they must release Pick and Drive Set up and secure Ruck for next phase

Referee, What To Do?

Be close, and early! Was it a legal tackle? (high, dangerous, complete?) Watch for the first offence ( 1 - tackler, 2 - tackled

player, 3 - arriving players) Watch players arrive through the “Gate” Verbalize command words:

Tackler release!, or Blue #8 roll away Release, no hands! Ruck! Watch for the intent to spoil, no sympathy

Referee Hints

Set standard early Use player numbers 75% and up Get Captains involved for repeated Loud commands to let all know of control Keep feet moving, don’t get caught at the

side! Attacking side 90%, 5% move from attack to

defend, 5% defending (scoring) Be decisive

7 Reasons to Use Player #!

Puts onus on offender Adds professionalism instead of “hey you” Credibility, if you just use color there are 14 others

not offending that disagree Lets opposition know you have the problem Reduces the use of Boots Helps with management at next stoppage Helps you remember repeat offenders Gets results

How to remember #’s

Pre-game put a face/identifier to numbers 6-7-8

As tackle is happening check #’s

After ruck check #’s of people you missed

Practice and set goals

Is Blue player off-side?