If you are a current THSCA member and have forgotten your THSCA Member ID you can call our office at 512.392.3741 or email us at info@thsca.com.

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If you are not a current THSCA member and cannot access the ATAVUS tackle training using your THSCA member number, please visit this PDF link for further information from the UIL on how to obtain your ATAVUS ID through the UIL Portal via Register My Athlete so you can still complete training online for free before July 1, 2019: 
https://www.uiltexas.org/files/athletics/Online_Certification_Procedures.pdf

 

1. Why Atavus?
For the last three years, Atavus has focused solely on tackling, and through their work, they have developed a systematic approach and process to teach tackling. When we considered all our options, in order to have a lasting impact, we knew we needed to work with experts who could not only teach the technique but provide the additional resources and expertise coaches have been asking for.

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2. How is this different? What makes the Atavus technique special?
What separates the Atavus tackling system is that we have taken a comprehensive look at contact in and around the tackle. As a result, we have produced the best resource for educating both players and coaches, and it help programs at every level. It is not age specific and can cross over into multiple sports.

 

The technique focuses on making contact with the shoulder and keeping the head out of the tackle. The goal is to have controlled movement, make effective contact and to maximize both power and control.

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But the Atavus System is more than just technique and drills. We have developed a system that engages the athletes through a player-centered approach and increases motor skill retention using a progression-based approach that incorporates varying levels of contact. As a result, the coaches have more confidence teaching, which increases the players confidence in execution.

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3. What is included in this certification? 
The certification includes introducing concepts that every coach should know in order to effectively coach tackling. The initial certification will be in person. After completing and passing the certification, coaches will have access to the Atavus Digital Coaching Academy. The Atavus Digital Coaching Academy provides coaches access to Technical Drills, Decision-Making Drills, Game-Based Drills, Certification test results, and additional coaching resources to help reinforce the certification process and provide instruction in teaching safer and more effective tackle drills.

 

4. What do coaches have to do to be certified?
The certification process will be available in two formats. The first and initial option is an on-site training, consisting of a presentation followed by a live assessment which must be passed to receive certification. The second option is an online platform, which allows coaches to achieve certification at their own pace but consists of a similar educational presentation and final assessment.

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5. If I purchase the Online Training Program and watch it, am I certified? 
No. Whether coaches choose the on-site training or online version, in addition to the presentation, coaches must pass an assessment in order to receive certification.

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6. What will this cost the high school coach in Texas?
If you choose to participate in the certification course at coaching school it is free to all registered attendees. Atavus online training model will also be free between April 1, 2019 and July 1, 2019. Certifications will be valid for two football seasons after 2019. If you complete the training in 2018 it will be good until 2021. Beginning August 1 there will be a fee associated with online tackle training.

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7. Has this been done before?
No this is the first mandatory tackling certification implemented by any state.

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8. What coaches will need to be tackle certified?
ALL Football Coaches msut be certified by August 1, 2019.

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9. Why make this certification mandatory not optional like other coaching certifications?
Simply stated the UIL Legislative council thinks that making this an optional certification would not convey how strong we feel about taking necessary steps to protect the game of football and make it safer. 

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10. Can I access the Atavus Digital Coaching Academy prior to attending the in-person tackle presentation and assessment?
No. Whether coaches choose the on-site training or online version, beginning in April of 2019, coaches must first pass the Tackle Certification assessment in order to access the Atavus Digital Coaching Academy.

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11. Why does THSCA believe this is the best way to tackle?
We think it’s mandatory to take the head out of the tackle and after vetting companies, Atavus stands alone in its research, drills and knowledge in the art of tackling.

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12. Who is keeping up with the certifications?
All CCP certifications will be logged in Register My Athlete on the UIL Portal. Atavus will relay all those persons who have passed certification at a THSCA in-person training to RMA for verification.
 

13. Can I complete ALL of my required CCP courses including the Tackling Certification at coaching school?

Yes. However, all sessions will have limited seating so we suggest you arrive early to registration to pick-up tickets for those that require a ticket for admission. The other CCP courses that do not require a ticket will also have limited seating and we will close those doors when we reach capacity. We will have staff on hand in the registration hall to answer any CCP questions you may have.

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14. What else does Atavus provide?
Those coaches who have passed the certification test will have online access to additional Atavus materials including training videos and drills. For a fee Atavus will analyze and keep up with your tackling throughout the season and/or come on to your campus and teach tackling to your staff and team. On campus training sessions do not suffice for CCP Certification. 

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15. Do they just teach Hawk Tackling?
They do not teach Hawk Tackling. This is a misrepresentation of their tackling style. After researching this company we trust that you will have a better understanding.

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16. Who else is using it?
Many major universities…You can visit the Atavus website for a complete list.

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17. Will there ever be another company that’s allowed tackle certify?
The THSCA and the UIL will continue to vet companies and provide the certification rights to the company they feel is the best source for safe tackling.

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18. When and where will I get my results from the Tackling Certification?

If you have completed an in person training you can login at www.atavus.com/texas to view your results and print your certificate. In the event you have not passed the certification test you will be given options for next steps. If you choose to take the exam online through ATAVUS, results will be immediately available.

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19. Is the tackling free online?

Online training is currently $35 per coach and will resume online on July 21, 2021.