Transition Front Block Tackle

Objective

• -Teach a safe, strong front block tackle
• -Time the tackle to the attacker's touch
• -Build confidence in the duel

Setup

1. 1Two facing lines six yards apart with a ball in the middle in a 22 x 16 yards area.
2. 2Mark a second target area at the opposite end so the practice can flip direction instantly.
3. 3One ball per pair.

How to play

1. 1Both players walk in and make a controlled block tackle on the ball.
2. 2Build the speed up gradually across the sets.
3. 3Finish with the winner driving the ball out of the area.
4. 4Coach serves a loose ball into the middle and both teams react to win it.
5. 5On every turnover the winning team has six seconds to attack the opposite target.

Progressions

• +Cut the counter window to four seconds
• +Raise the demand once the group is consistently successful

Regressions

• -Freeze the play for two seconds after each turnover to reset shape
• -Simplify the area or the service until success returns

Variations

• -Coach can serve a second ball to force an instant re-transition
• -Run the practice on the opposite side of the pitch

Common mistakes

• -Soft ankle causing injury risk
• -Tackling with the toe
• -Stopping to appeal instead of reacting to the turnover