Tackling in first-grade football might not appear dangerous, and in the short term it rarely is. But the rise of concussions in collegiate and professional football has raised alarm not just for the safety of the game itself but also for the way tackling habits are taught. The importance of proper tackling skills has trickled down to the youngest levels of competitive football, where players start developing habits in the ways they approach a tackle. Young players need to learn that using their head to tackle is dangerous to the tackler and tackled alike, and safer alternatives need to be used.
Step 1
Instruct players to lead with their shoulder, not with their head. Some contact to the head is inevitable, but the way helmets are constructed today presents the opportunity for defenders to launch themselves at offensive players like human missiles. Players in the first grade won't be able to generate this force, but they still can injure their heads by repeatedly using them to strike other players. Striking first with the shoulder puts your arms and body closer to the offensive player, putting you in a better position to bring down the opponent.
Step 2
Perform drills in which players practice wrapping their arms around the players they are trying to tackle. This will let the defender get control of the opposing player. Offensive players will struggle to break free from a tackle when the defender gets both arms around the torso. At best this will lead to a solo tackle, and at worst it will slow down the offensive player while other defenders catch up to complete the tackle.
Step 3
Use small tackling dummies to illustrate to young players how to run through a tackle and keep their feet moving. Younger players will have a tendency to stop at the point of contact, which makes the tackle easier to break. Tackling dummies are soft when tackled but help players practice a key fundamental: Continuing their momentum as they contact the offensive player. If a defender keeps running and stepping after contact is made, it will create a consistent force that offensive players will struggle to overcome.
Tips and Warnings
- Make sure players are wearing helmets and mouth guards properly before contact is made in practice. Failure to do so can result in a serious injury.
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