Kicking Tips by Nick Novak 1 of 2

Step 1

Focus on the holder's finger which is on the spot. Think about swinging smoothly and hitting the target beyond the uprights. The brain will remember exactly the location of the target you pick, so when you drop your head after picking the target, there is no reason to look up during the approach or after the ball has left your foot. The entire movement is predicated on keeping your head down and focusing on making good ball contact. The mind is clear and very confident. Know exactly where the ball needs to go and how to do it. The only thing to think about during a game or competition is hitting the target. At no point do you think about mechanics during competition of any kind. The only time to think about mechanics is during practice.

Step 2

The Jab-step: The jab is a very short step. Your weight is on the ball of your front foot, and the back foot (right foot) is pushing your body forward getting the momentum going. The left foot initiates the movement. For a right footed kicker the left foot leads off. The left foot is pointed at your plant spot. Always keep your right shoulder inside of the ball. I have always taken a 2 1/2 step approach. Some people take 2 steps to the ball; either way works. Approach the ball in an even plain, do not bounce or move side to side. Keep your hips open until contact and take them through the ball. After the ball has left your foot, make sure your hips and shoulders are going to the target. Inconsistencies arise If you waiver too far off the target line. I take 3 steps back and 2 over.

Step 3

The second step is getting the body in position to take off and explode through the ball. The second step is about a yard longer then the jab step. When you take the three steps back from the ball after picking the spot, take two steps to the left at a 90 degree angle. The angle from the ball to my final position in the stance is about 45 degrees. Try to keep your upper body still during the approach, keep a big chest and focus on the spot. Don’t bounce the head up and down, keep it still. Use the arms for balance; the left arm for a right footed kicker is doing most of the work. Keep the right arm close to your body. The goal is to be as efficient as possible, so you do not want any unnecessary motion.

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