Teaching Football Skills Tackling Skill Progression – Tackling Your Athlete Can: Execute a front block tackle; upper body leans into tackle, applying maximum force, aiming to block ball, rather than kick it. Know when to use appropriate tackle technique. Execute a side block tackle; player maintains good balance with outstretched leg. Successfully focus, track and close down on opponents dribbling the ball. Player has good coordination to make good strong contact on the ball using inside of foot. Not easily fall for fakes. Move quickly to close distance to opponent with ball. Focus attention on ball, not opponent’s body. Put weight behind tackle. Totals Never Sometimes Often Special Olympics Football Coaching Guide Created: February 2004 83