Avoid These Common Mistakes in Rugby League 3 Man Tackles | The Contact Room

In rugby league, mastering the three-man tackle is essential for defensive dominance — but the third man in often gets it wrong. This video dives deep into the role of the third tackler, revealing technical adjustments, common mistakes, and best practices to help you control the ball carrier’s lower body, stay active in the game, and slow play-the-ball effectively.

🏉 You’ll Learn:

What makes an effective 3-man tackle

Why rushing in or targeting the lower back reduces tackle efficiency

How to break posture at the hip hinge instead of the glutes

Why staying on your feet keeps you “in the game”

Key coaching cues to improve third-man timing and positioning

💪 Who It’s For:

Rugby league players developing advanced defensive skills

Coaches building tackle systems and defensive structure

Athletes focused on controlling contact, slowing tempo, and winning the ruck

⚠️ Key Takeaways:

The third tackler should never be a passenger — apply smart force to assist the primary tacklers

Use proper contact principles: foot/knee/shoulder alignment still applies

Avoid low dives that remove you from the play — stay upright and engaged

🎯 Add this to your weekly tackle progression or pre-season contact prep for better team coordination and defensive flow.

#RugbyLeague

If you want more drills, resources and ideas we have a growing library on our website at www.tackleuniversity.co

We're also giving coaches and players the opportunity to follow along with our pro athletes' exact strength and conditioning regime from anywhere in the world, in real time, over on the superb TrainHeroic platform. Sign up here: https://marketplace.trainheroic.com/w...