Tackling is one of the most important skills in rugby and a fundamental part of the game. You simply cannot play rugby without tackling. Not only is it essential for effective defense, but learning proper tackling technique is also crucial for your own safety and the safety of others.

Good tackling requires commitment, confidence, and sound technique. Hesitation often leads to missed tackles and increases the risk of injury. Start by learning the correct body position and technique in training, then gradually build confidence until tackling becomes second nature.

Before learning more about tackling, all players, coaches, and parents should familiarize themselves with the World Rugby Laws relating to the tackle. These laws clearly explain what constitutes a legal tackle and what players are permitted to do before, during, and after a tackle. We offer some basic information here.

What Is a Tackle? A tackle can only be made on the ball carrier. A tackle occurs when the ball carrier is held by one or more opponents and is brought to ground. This means the ball carrier has at least one knee on the ground, is sitting on the ground, or is lying on top of another player who is on the ground.

Once a tackle is completed: The ball carrier must immediately release or pass the ball. The tackler must release the ball carrier. The tackler must move away from the tackle area.
This allows other players to compete for possession and continue play, often resulting in a ruck.

Illegal Tackles: Player safety is a top priority in rugby, and World Rugby regularly updates the laws to make the game safer. Some common illegal tackles include:

• High Tackle: A tackle where contact is made above the line of the sternum. High tackles are strictly penalized and can result in yellow or red cards depending on the severity.
• Tip Tackle: A tackle where a player's hips are lifted above their head and they are driven or dropped toward the ground. These tackles are considered extremely dangerous and often result in severe sanctions.
• No-Arms Tackle (Shoulder Charge): A tackle where the defender leads with the shoulder and fails to attempt to wrap the ball carrier with their arms. Players must always attempt to use their arms in a tackle.
• Chop Tackle Without Arms: A low tackle can be effective and legal, but only if the defender wraps with their arms. Driving into a player's legs or lower body without attempting to wrap is illegal and dangerous.

What Happens After the Tackle?: Once a legal tackle has been completed, players from both teams may compete for possession of the ball. When one or more players from each team, who are on their feet, in physical contact, and close around the ball on the ground, a ruck is formed. Open play has ended. The laws and techniques relating to this next phase of play are covered in the Ruck section.

Remember: rugby is not about making the biggest hit. The best tacklers are those who consistently use safe, effective technique to stop the opposition and help their team regain possession.