The 1/2 step approach (or short jab) initiates forward momentum which enables the following steps to be quicker and thus, enhances leg speed during the kick. This step is taken with the non-kicking foot; it is this short jab which is omitted during the 2-step approach. The next step is taken with the kicking foot. This is a full one step, and it builds momentum in preparation for the plant. Note that just prior to the plant step, the kicking leg will naturally draw back and bend at the knee.
plant STEP
This step is very important because it not only provides support, but also gives direction to the kick. As the planting step is taken, it should pivot and be placed in the general direction of the target. The exact distance the foot plant should be from the ball varies with the individual.
When using a tee, the middle of the foot is typically aligned with the ball and positioned 6 to 10 inches to the side of the ball. The distance of the plant from the ball is based on personal preference and can be determined by the use of a shorter tee or by spotting the ball on the ground.
COACHING POINT:
If the ball is spotted on the ground the plant foot should be placed slightly forward to compensate for the lowering of the ball.
note: The plant foot becomes a natural guide, supporting the entire body as it "torques" toward the target generating increased leg speed.
COACHING POINT:
The kicker should land on his heel initially when making his plant. The will aid balance and help in the correct distribution of body weight.
foot/ball IMPACT
As the kicking foot starts in the downward arc towards the ball, the upper body will pivot (torque) in the direction of the plant foot. When foot/ball contact is made, the impetus of the body (including the plant foot, hips and leg swing -- ALL) should be focused directly toward the target.
foot POSITION
As contact is made with the kicking foot, the ankle should remain locked in place with the toes depressed and in a pointed position. (The exact foot position should be determined by the individual as there are various ways to kick the ball successfully).
COACHING POINT:
The kicker's leg should swing in a sweeping type motion from the hip. Do not lean back or forward during the kick.
Kick through the football and simultaneously bring your arm (opposite the kicking leg) across your chest in a parallel and upward "sweeping" motion. At impact, your hips should square up in the general direction of the target. As your foot goes through the ball and your kicking leg reaches maximum follow-through your hips should continue forward in a "thrusting" motion enabling optimum power through the ball.
follow THROUGH
The kicker should always kick through the football. The key to the follow through is to finish with the kicking and planting foot aiming in the general direction of the target. By concentrating on the proper body position after the kick, the kicker will promote the correct plant, body position and leg swing prior to and during the kick. As he kicks through the ball, the kicker's movement should carry him upward, onto the toes of the non-kicking foot and forward beyond the placement (tee).
note: Due to the "torque effect" of the body that is created by the angle of approach, plant and leg swing,, the "skip" step of the plant foot will not only go forward, it will drift slightly away from the target line (opposite the kicking leg) and land with the toes pointed of the direction of the skip. The "skip" step is crucial in allowing proper transfer of energy and therefore maximizing power!