Height and Accuracy Drill: Mastering the Upright
The Height and Accuracy Drill is designed to refine a kicker’s ability to consistently achieve sufficient height and accuracy on their kicks. By focusing on striking the ball cleanly and imparting the necessary backspin, this drill aims to improve both short and long-range field goal accuracy.
Purpose
- Height and Distance: Develops the kicker’s ability to generate consistent height and distance on their kicks.
- Accuracy: Enhances the kicker’s precision and ability to place the ball between the uprights.
- Striking Mechanics: Reinforces proper kicking technique, including contact point, follow-through, and ball rotation.
Description
Drill Setup
- The kicker places the football on the tee, or the holder places the football on the tee 7 yards from the goal post upright.
- The football is placed on the same line as the goal posts (end line).
- Mark a 4 yards x 4 yards area with 4 cones about 40-45 yards from the tee in extension of the baseline on the other side of the field goal.
Drill Execution
- Kicking Position: The kicker sets up at the designated kicking position, following their normal pre-kick routine.
- Ball Placement: The holder places the ball on the tee – or the kicker positions the ball with a kicking holder before setting up.
- Execution: The kicker aims to strike the ball cleanly, imparting enough backspin to achieve the desired height and accuracy.
- Target Area: The kicker concentrates on hitting the ball towards the upright of the goal post, aiming to hit the upright as high as possible – if he misses, the ball should land in the marked 4×4 yard landing area.
Coaching Points
- Striking Mechanics: Emphasize proper kicking technique, including a smooth approach, consistent contact point, and follow-through.
- Ball Placement: Encourage the kicker to focus on striking the ball in the center of the sweet spot to optimize height and accuracy.
- Follow-Through: Reinforce the importance of a consistent follow-through to maintain balance and accuracy.
- Mental Focus: Emphasize the importance of concentration and visualization throughout the kicking process.
- Data Tracking: Encourage the kicker to track their performance, identifying strengths and areas for improvement.
Equipment
- Footballs
- 4 Cones
- Kicking Tee (if you’re allowed to use one)
- Kicking Holder (optional)
By consistently practicing the Height and Accuracy Drill, kickers will develop the skills and confidence needed to make clutch field goals in pressure-filled situations.
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