STRAIGHT-ON STYLE KICKING

target ZONE

The target zone is a precise area above the crossbar, beyond and between the uprights.  It should be a stationary object such as a flagpole, score board, etc.  Focusing on a precise area directs all kicking motion toward the target and thus aids in the accuracy of the kick.

sweet SPOT

The sweet spot of the ball for straight-on style kickers is located approximately 1 1/2 inches down from the ball's widest segment.  Kicking this area of the football is most effective for achieving the greatest height and distance.

proper ALIGNMENT

There are numerousways a kicker can align properly.  The kicker should develop a consistent method to mark his steps off and thus achieve proper depth and alignment.  Most importantly, the marking off of steps should be done the same way every time!

3 steps BACK DETERMINES DEPTH

The kicker must first position himself at the point of placement (tee or spot the ball will be held) and locate his target zone.  He should then take the initial (3) steps back keeping the kicking leg, point of placement and target zone all in direct line.  The plant foot (non-kicking foot) should be placed parallel to the kicking foot and also pointed straight ahead towards the target.  It is important for the kicker to "toe the line" once the steps are completed.  In other words, the kicking foot, point of placement and the target zone all should be aligned on the same imaginary line.

In order to achieve the proper depth, the kicker should mark his steps off every time!  This will allow the kicker to start and finish in the same position each time and also prvide consistency in the meeting of the foot with the ball.   

the STANCE

A good stance will allow the kicker to get the ball off (kicked) quickly and accurately.  The two recommended ways to position the feet are:

1.  Kicking foot forward.  This stance is best for toeing the line.

2.  Feet parallel.

foot POSITION

body POSITION

The entire body (hip/shoulders) should be directly facing and square to the target.  The body weight is forward and concentrated on the balls of the feet.

COACHING POINT:

The purpose of the forward body lean is to aid the forward momentum on the initial step.  The amount of the body lean is determined by the individual.

After the target zone has been picked, the head should be placed down and remain down throughout the entire kicking motion.  The eyes should be focused on the point where the ball is to be spotted.  To help you relax, take a deep breath and release it slowly.  Total concentration is a must!

ball POSITION

The hold should be straight up and down with the laces ideally facing the target.  The laces should not face the kicker.   

     COACHING POINT:

When tilting the football backward the holder decreases the exposed portion of the sweet spot.  An erect placement will allow the kicker to see the entire football, thus enabling him to hit just under the ball's middle to get maximum height and distance.

total TIME

Kickers should be continually timed, not only to get the ball off quickly, but also enable them to develop a proper rhythm and thus improve consistency.  The total time from snap to kick should be from 1.25 to 1.4 seconds for high school players and 1.25 to 1.3 seconds for college and professional kickers.

The steps for extra points and field goals are the same.  They should be smooth, aggressive and straight (towards the target zone).

The first step is with the kicking foot.  It varies from a short jab step to a half (1/2) step, equivalent to about half the length of a normal stride.  The first step is important not only in determining the direction of the kick, but also the position the second step (plant foot) is to be placed.