🏒

Lesson 6 - Tackling Techniques

Tactical Awareness

•

Year 5

•

Hockey

•

55 min

Big Question

How do we choose the right tackling technique to win possession whilst maintaining fair play?

Learning Objectives

To master open stick (block) tackle technique for defensive situations
To develop jab tackle skills for quick ball recovery
To understand when to apply different tackling techniques in game situations

Key Outcomes

Students will demonstrate correct body position and timing for open stick tackles
Students will execute effective jab tackles from both sides of their body
Students will select appropriate tackling techniques based on game situations

Equipment & Resources Required

Hockey sticks

30 (1 per student)

Check all sticks for damage, ensure appropriate length for students

Alternative: Floor hockey sticks, adapted sticks for different heights

Tennis Balls

Softer balls reduce injury risk whilst learning

Alternative: Foam balls, hockey balls for advanced groups

Dish Cones

Use bright colours for clear visibility of boundaries and goals

Alternative: Spot markers, bibs as goal markers

Key Vocabulary

Open stick tackle

A defensive technique where the stick is placed low to create a barrier, preventing the attacker from advancing

Jab tackle

A quick, sharp movement to dispossess an opponent by jabbing the stick at the ball

Tracking

Following an opponent's movement whilst maintaining defensive position

Timing

Choosing the exact moment to execute a tackle for maximum effectiveness

Possession

Having control of the ball and being able to play it effectively

Skill Progression Pathway

Understanding where pupils are coming from and where they're going

Prior Learning

Basic stick handling and dribbling skills
Understanding of attacking and defending roles
Ability to control ball whilst moving

Current Skills

Open stick (block) tackle technique
Jab tackle from both sides
Tactical decision making in defensive situations

Next Steps

Advanced tackling in pressured game situations
Combination defending with teammates
Leading defensive strategies in full games

Milestone Indicators

Consistent successful tackles in 1v1 situations

Quick decision making between tackle types

Maintaining possession after winning the ball

Key Teaching Points

Timing is crucial - don't position too early for open stick tackles
Jab tackle should be like a 'snake strike' - quick in and out movement
Wide grip on stick provides better control during tackles
Maintain balanced, crouched position for effective blocking
Choose tackle type based on situation - jab for moving opponents, block for head-on approaches
Safety first - sticks below waist height at all times
Track opponents closely to create tackling opportunities

Common Misconceptions

That harder tackles are more effective - emphasise technique over force
That you should tackle immediately when near opponent - teach importance of timing
That only one tackle type works - demonstrate appropriate use of both techniques
That defending means staying in one position - teach active tracking and movement
That losing the ball means failure - frame as learning opportunity and part of game

SEN Adaptations

ADHD

Short practice bursts with regular changes, clear boundaries and rules, immediate positive feedback for good technique

dyspraxia

Break down movements into smaller steps, use larger equipment initially, extra practice time for coordination development

autism spectrum

Provide clear structure and routine, visual schedule of lesson phases, quiet space available if needed

visual impairment

Use brightly coloured balls, provide verbal descriptions of tackle positions, pair with sighted partner for guidance

hearing impairment

Use clear visual demonstrations, hand signals for instruction, written technique reminders on display

physical disability

Adapt grip positions for limited mobility, use seated versions where appropriate, modify tackle techniques for wheelchair users

Cross-Curricular Links

Maths

Measuring distances for goal spacing, timing tackle attempts, counting successful tackles in games

Science

Forces and motion in ball movement, reaction times in defensive situations, biomechanics of stick positioning

Geography

Spatial awareness, direction and positioning on playing area, mapping movement patterns

PSHE

Fair play and respect, working cooperatively with partners, managing competition emotions, resilience when losing possession

Teacher Guidance

Positioning

Move constantly between groups, positioning to see all students, intervene early if unsafe practice observed

Observation Focus

Watch for correct technique, safe stick handling, fair play, appropriate intensity level

Intervention Points

Step in immediately for unsafe stick use, over-aggressive tackling, or students struggling with basic technique

Demonstration Notes

Use exaggerated movements for clear visibility, demonstrate common mistakes as well as correct technique, involve confident students in demonstrations

Verbal Cues

•'Stick low, stay balanced!'
•'Time it right - wait for your moment!'
•'Snake strike - quick in and out!'
•'Fair play everyone - controlled tackles only!'

Safety Considerations

Space & Surface Requirements

Space Requirements

Minimum 30m x 20m for full class, clear of obstacles

Surface Check

Dry, even surface free from debris or hazards

Equipment Safety

Safety Checks

•All hockey sticks checked for damage before lesson
•Tennis balls used instead of hockey balls to reduce injury risk
•Cones checked for sharp edges or damage

Risk Management

Key Risks

•Stick contact with other students
•Collisions during tackling practice
•Falls during quick direction changes

Risk Mitigation

•Strict stick height rule enforced (below waist)
•One-on-one tackling only during games
•Adequate spacing between practice pairs
•Progressive skill building from slow to game pace

Supervision & Emergency Procedures

Supervision Points

•Position for clear sight of all practice pairs
•Monitor stick height consistently
•Watch for over-aggressive tackling

Emergency Procedures

Stop activity immediately, assess injury, provide appropriate first aid, contact school office if required