Skill Practice Description
• Play a game of touch or grip tackle.
• At the coach’s discretion, call “slow ball!” or “freeze” and allow the attack to form a diamond behind the 1st or 2nd receiver. Then call “Play!”
• The defence will also be organised but this will be the case in a full game.
• Allow the game to progress and shorten the time they have at the slow ball scenarios.
• Don’t be concerned if there are not four players in the formation as long as there is at least a second tier of support.
• As players become competent at forming the shape in front of the tackle line, the coach may develop the ability to form again, having made a line break.
• Develop the game into full contact.
Key Coaching Points
• Holding spaces open.
• Ball carrier to watch the defensive shape and not look round for the support.
• Listening and cooperation. Play with the eyes in front and the ears behind.
• Intuitive decision making.
• Support to hold depth and not arrive at the tackle line flat.
