Society

Duke Wilson

Coaching Communication and Safe Tackling in Rugby and Football

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I am a Professional Communication student at Toronto Metropolitan University with a strong interest in marketing, media, and strategic communication. I have gained experience through internships in construction, real estate, and brand development, including roles with Ledcor and Westbeach. Through these experiences, I’ve developed skills in communication, problem-solving, and project coordination. I’m particularly interested in how messaging influences behaviour and decision-making, and I am interested in moving into venture capital, where I can evaluate opportunities, support early-stage companies, and contribute to strategic growth.

This research examines how coaching communication influences the teaching and learning of safe tackling in rugby and football. While safety discussions in contact sports often focus on rules and equipment, this study shifts attention to how coaches communicate technique, provide feedback, and frame risk for athletes. Using a qualitative approach, the study draws on semi-structured interviews with coaches and analysis of coaching materials to identify patterns in instructional language and safety messaging.

The findings suggest that rugby coaching tends to emphasize technical precision and body positioning as the foundation of safe tackling, while football coaching more often focuses on rule compliance and maintaining control. Differences were also observed in communication style, with rugby coaches using more player-centred feedback and football coaches using more directive instruction. Overall, the study highlights that coaching communication plays a meaningful role in shaping how athletes understand and perform tackling, and suggests that improving communication practices may support safer sport environments.

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