tackling

Tackling is a term used in many contact sports to describe an action intended to stop an opponent by bringing them to the ground or otherwise halting their forward progress. A tackle combines contact, control, and often the contest for possession, and is typically executed with the shoulder and arms while aiming to minimize injury to both players. Safety and fair play are central to tackling technique.

In American football and Canadian football, a tackle ends the ball carrier’s advance and may change possession if the ball is fumbled. In rugby union and rugby league, a tackle stops the runner and creates a ruck or contest for the ball. In association football (soccer), a tackle is a challenge to win the ball from an opponent, sometimes with legal sliding or foot-work.

Technique emphasizes body position, timing, and control. Key elements include keeping a stable stance and low center of gravity, presenting the shoulder to the opponent, and wrapping the arms to secure contact and control. The head should stay to the side of the contact zone, not down the line of impact, to protect the neck and avoid dangerous contact. Drive through with the legs to finish the tackle rather than merely brushing the opponent.

Rules and safety measures regulate tackles to reduce injury risk. Illegal tackles include high tackles above the shoulders, helmet-to-helmet contact, spear tackles, and tackling a defenseless player. Penalties may include yardage loss, loss of possession, or ejection. Proper coaching emphasizes safer technique, head-up alignment, and controlled contact, along with conditioning and fair play standards.

Training typically uses progressions from non-contact form drills to pad and live drills, focusing on form tackling, wrap techniques, and controlled aggression. Variations include wrap tackles and arm tackles, practiced under supervision to minimize risk while building skill.