Getting hit in the face in rugby?

Question

how do i avoid getting hit in the face when i tackle in rugby because it happened twice in practice at school.

Answer 1

Don't tackle like a football player!  

Use the 'cheek to cheek' method of tackling - your cheek and their butt cheek. Your head should be past their hip on the side you are approaching the tackle from.  Practice this very slowly, walking into the tackle, then pick up the speed.  You actually rarely see rugby players tackling with their face - tends to put you on your butt instead of the other guy, and it hurts.  See any of the tackling videos on the internet.   Your inside shoulder should take the brunt of the tackle, not your face.  You will get smacked once in awhile, but it should be rare.  

Sounds like you just need a lot of rugby tackling practice. This is hard if you have played football (gridiron) before.... the only players that have that problem on our team are ex-football players.  

Good luck...  stick with it.

Answer 2

Sometimes this will happen.  It's a tough sport that doesn't use a helmet.  It's like asking, "How do I avoid tearing my ACL when playing rugby?"  Sometimes things happen.

Answer 3

dont be a sally take one for the team

Answer 4

awww poor you. but if you enjoy playing rugby i suppose it doesnt matter how many times you get hit in the face.

Answer 5

wear a facemask. otherwise, suck it up

Answer 6

you don't... it's rugby. I lost a few teeth playing that sport and let me tell you that will not be your only injury. Why do you think they drink beer AFTER the game?