Optimising tackle technique and building confidence in contact with Andy Ryland

In this informative episode of the Pacey Performance Podcast, host Rob Pacey is joined by Andy Ryland, Senior Manager of Education and Training at USA Football. They delve into the critical aspects of tackle technique in rugby and American Football, and the importance of building confidence in contact situations across sports. 

Andy, with his rich background in both American football and rugby, shares invaluable insights into the differences and similarities in coaching styles and tackle techniques between the two sports. The discussion emphasizes the evolution of tackle technique, focusing on neck safety and the reduction of head and helmet impacts. Andy highlights the significance of proper head placement and shoulder contact to minimize injuries.

The episode also explores how technical models for coaching certification can enhance safety and tackle effectiveness in football, alongside conditioning drills like grappling and tumbling to build athlete confidence. Additionally, they discuss the importance of neck strengthening exercises in contact sports and the role of social media in learning tackle techniques.

Throughout the episode, Andy also addresses the unique challenges faced by youth athletes in contact sports, emphasizing the reduced exposure to rough play in modern childhood and its impact on their ability to handle physical contact in sports. This insightful discussion extends to the significance of incorporating elements like hand fighting and physicality into speed training, which not only builds technical skill but also psychological resilience in young athletes. Furthermore, the podcast highlights how drills and conditioning, including innovative neck strengthening routines, can be customized for various sports to enhance safety and performance.

This episode is not just for those in collision sports but highly relevant to those working in sports like soccer, backetball and ice hockey where building confidence in contact situations is crucial.

Main talking points:

• Emphasis on safety in tackling technique.
• Evolving rugby tackle techniques for neck safety.
• Implementing coaching certification for safety in football.
• Conditioning and grappling for contact confidence.
• Confidence building in contact through various drills.
• Importance of neck strengthening in contact sports.
• Youth's decreased exposure to physical play.
• Streamlining progression in contact and collision.
• Adapting tackling drills across different sports.
• Developing reaction skills in contact situations.
• Incorporating physicality into speed training.