EGO COMBAT JOURNAL / RUGBY
Choose contact equipment around your players, your drills and the way your coach runs each session.
A tackle shield is a training tool for a particular session, not a substitute for coaching. When choosing equipment, begin with your players and the drills your coaching team intends to run.
Define the purpose of the drill
Contact practice can involve different body positions, movement patterns and levels of intensity. Tell your supplier whether you need a shield for stationary partner work, moving drills or another specific use. Product names alone are not enough to establish whether a shape is right for your session.
Consider the player and the holder
The person holding the shield needs to handle it comfortably as well as present it correctly. Compare dimensions, weight, grip layout and intended user group on the individual product page. Junior and senior equipment should be assessed against the actual participants and the coach’s plan.
Shape and handling matter
Flat, curved and other shaped shields offer different contact surfaces. Look at the complete construction, including handles, seams and the area presented to the player. Choose for a clear training purpose rather than assuming that the largest or heaviest option is automatically the best fit.
Look after shared equipment
Follow the product’s cleaning and storage instructions. Check handles, seams and the cover before sessions and remove damaged equipment from use. Outdoor training also makes it worth planning where wet or dirty equipment will be cleaned and dried after practice.
Build a useful enquiry
Include the age group, approximate number of players, the types of drills and whether the equipment will travel between venues. If you want club colours or branding, send your logo and quantity at the same time so the specification can be discussed as one project.
Contact drills should be organised and supervised by an appropriately qualified coach. The equipment and progression need to suit the participants and session.
Explore rugby training equipment or discuss your club’s requirements.