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Tackle Height and Tackle Success-An Analysis of 52,204 Tackle Events
S Hendricks1,2, K Till2, S Scantlebury2,3
1Division of Physiological Sciences and Health Through Physical Activity, Lifestyle and Sport Research Centre, Department of Human Biology, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Cape Town, Cape Town, South Africa.
European Journal of Sport Science
|July 12, 2025
Summary
Active shoulder tackles are most successful across all rugby levels, especially in junior play. Arm tackles are least effective, with contact height influencing success rates differently by age group.
Area of Science:
- Sports Science
- Biomechanics
- Rugby Union Performance Analysis
Background:
- Tackle success in rugby union is crucial for game strategy and player safety.
- Understanding the impact of contact points and tackle types on success is vital for coaching.
- Previous research has not comprehensively analyzed tackle success across various playing levels and contact heights.
Purpose of the Study:
- To compare the probability of tackle success based on contact height and tackle type in rugby union.
- To analyze these probabilities across seven different playing levels, from U12 to Senior Elite.
- To identify optimal tackle techniques and contact points for improved performance and player development.
Main Methods:
- Analysis of 51,106 tackles from 271 video-recorded male rugby union matches.
- Inclusion of seven playing groups (U12, U14, U16, U18 Amateur, U18 Elite, Senior Amateur, Senior Elite).
- Multi-level logistic regression modeling, accounting for situational variables like tackle direction and player numbers.
Main Results:
- Active shoulder tackles demonstrated the highest probability of success across all levels and contact heights.
- Arm tackles consistently showed the lowest probability of success.
- In junior levels, shoulder contact yielded higher success rates than mid-torso or leg contact; this difference diminished at senior levels.
Conclusions:
- Coaches should prioritize training active shoulder tackles for optimal success.
- Tackle training should be tailored to age groups, considering the varying effectiveness of contact points.
- This research provides actionable insights for improving tackle technique, training design, and player development in rugby union.
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