Special Olympics Football Coaches Quick Start Guide Skill Progression Executes a front block tackle; upper body leans into tackle, applying maximum force, aiming to block ball, rather than kick it. Knows when to use appropriate tackle technique. Executes a side block tackle; player maintains good balance with outstretched leg. Successfully focuses, tracks and closes down on opponents dribbling the ball. Player has good coordination to make good strong contact on the ball using inside of foot. Does not easily fall for fakes. Moves quickly to close distance to opponent with ball. Focuses attention on ball, not opponent’s body. Puts weight behind tackle. Tackling Faults & Fixes Error Defender gets beat because of giving opposing player too much space. Defender chases player and cannot catch opponent. Opposition player runs past player because of missed tackle. Correction Encourage defender to stay close to opposing players and to run with them. Always stay between your goal and player. Time tackle so that you are sure of winning ball. Drill/Test Reference Have defenders concentrate on the player they are defending and not other parts of the field. Teach positional sense. 1. 2. Teach players to properly time tackles. Do not commit too early. Football Quick Start Guide – September 2004 51