How to Slide Tackle - Part 1

A slide tackle is a defensive play to win the ball when you are just out of reach to get the ball from a standing position. When possible you should stay on your feet and defend from a standing position. When it’s a last resort or when the situation calls for it, you should slide tackle. 

For the hook tackle it’s used to hook the ball away from an attacker’s feet. Typically it works when an attacker is dribbling side by side with you.

Key Points

Key Point #1 - Slide with your leg closest to the ball. This will get your foot to the ball faster versus using your foot farthest away from the ball. 

Key Point #2 - Lock your ankle and curl your foot back towards your shin. This creates the “hook” in your foot to steal the ball. 

Key Point #3 - Time your tackle. You want to time the tackle when the attacker has their lead dribbling foot in full stretch and their foot is touching the ball.

If you catch the attacker at this point in their dribble you will time it perfect because they won’t be able to take another touch. 

If they look like this and aren’t in full stride with their dribble then when they see you slide tackle they are in position to quickly take a touch sideways or forward to avoid your tackle. 

Can’t repeat this enough. Timing is so important! Takes practice, patience and experience.

It’s not a perfect science, but it increases your chances of winning the ball.

Key Point #4 - Pop Up quick pushing off the ground with your hands if needed. Get up quick from a tackle and you will look legit. Not to mention you will be ready to make a pass or dribble right away. 

If you miss the tackle so what! That happens. React positive and hustle back on defense. 

Key Point #5 - Listen to your gut. Don’t over think the hook slide tackle. You shouldn’t be running next to an attacker thinking, should I do it now? How about now? What about now? When your gut tells you to do it, do it! Don’t over think it. 

Key Point #6 - Be confident. Have no doubt in your mind that you will win the ball. Yes, you won’t win it every time but mentally you need to believe you will. No doubt! Believe in it®!!

Key Points on what NOT TO DO

Do NOT try to hurt anyone. Do NOT try to foul. Yes, tackle hard and put fear into your opponents, in a politely classy kinda way, but don’t ever try to hurt anyone. Be respectful of your fellow players and their careers. 

For the hook tackle, it’s more of a graceful tackle versus a tough hard tackle anyway. 

Equipment Needed

For this exercise you will need a ball and two cones. If you have a partner that would help too!

Exercise Player Can Do

First start off by getting this technique down. Practice a few reps of going to the ground from a stand still. 

Once comfortable pass the ball to the cone in front of you about 10 yards. Sprint to it and imagine an attacker is dribbling it. Then do the hook slide tackle, win the ball and sprint back to your start cone. 

By adding the positive reaction of sprinting back after you win it this will help you react quicker in games. 

Do 5 reps, then repeat a few sets.

If you have a partner, then have your partner dribble to the top cone and you hook tackle it away from them when you time it right. Then sprint to start cone. Do a few reps then switch.

What Player Could Be Doing Wrong

Some things that could be going wrong. If you keep missing the ball then your timing is off. Make sure you time it so the attacker is fully out stretched with their touch. 

Bonus Tip

Wear warm up pants and practice on soft, wet grass when possible. If you practice on hard grass, dirt or concrete you are going to be hurting after!

This Video Covers:
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