Fear is an issue that football players must contend with at all levels of the game. It is most prevalent at the youth level when players have to go on the field and face hard physical contact on an every-play basis. Some players will thrive on this contact, while others will tend to shy from it. Youth coaches have to encourage contact and help make the game fun for youngsters. Experienced players might face fear issues as well and can prepare for it by getting stronger and by talking out their fears.
Step 1
Provide young players with solid tackling drills that can be run in the form of games. One of these games is "Bull in the Ring." One player has the football and his teammates circle around him. The player with the ball spins around so that he faces everyone in the circle at one point or another. The coach will shout out "go" as he spins and the player will run straight at the teammate he is facing and try to run past him. The defensive player tries to tackle him and also becomes the next player with the ball. Every player should get a chance to run with the ball and every player should get a chance to make the tackle. This game helps players get over their fear of being hit.
Step 2
Realize that every player who ever put a ball under his arm and put on shoulder pads and a helmet has been tackled. You are not alone. Playing football is not easy and the contact is forceful. However, the rewards can be fulfilling when you give your best effort and play for your teammates -- football is a team game. When you run hard and get hit, your teammates will recognize your effort and appreciate it.
Step 3
Drive your shoulder into your opponent when you are running with the ball. It's not just about avoiding contact when you are running with the ball or have just made a catch: Sometimes you can initiate contact and knock down the tackler. Take a lower angle so your shoulder is at the level of the defensive player's midsection. That way you avoid the pain of being tackled. If you do go down on the ground, it will be the result of getting dragged down and not absorbing a big hit.
Step 4
Talk to a friend, teammate or professional about the fears you have about being hit. When you verbalize your fears, you might get suggestions on how to overcome your problems. Just verbalizing them might help you dissipate those fears. In some cases, your fears will not disappear. Football is a tough and violent game, but talking about those fears, especially with experienced players, will help you come up with ways to play successfully despite those fears.
References
- "Play Football the NFL Way"; Tom Bass; 1991
- "Inside the Helmet"; Peter King; 1993
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