Tuesday, October 1, 2013

Special Teams: Placekicking for Holders

As the holder, you must position yourself on the opposite side of the kicking tee (or the spot you'll place the ball) from the kicker. Once even with the tee, kneel down with your back knee on the ground seven yards from the center. The foot of your front leg should be up with your toe pointed directly at the goal post. From this position, lean slightly forward toward the center.

Next, put your back hand on the center of the "tee" and extend your front hand and arm toward the center. This front arm and hand, palm down, is the top portion of the center's target and should be even with the middle of your chest. Ask the kicker if he is ready to proceed. When he tells you he is:

1. Bring your other hand off the ground and form a complete target for the center's snap
2. Touch your thumbs together to catch the ball correctly
3. Be prepared for the snap to come at any time

It would be ideal if the ball zipped into your hands at the frame you created as a target every time. In the real world, this won't always be the case - you must be prepared to catch the snap no matter where it comes in. Your first job is to make the catch and get the ball down on the "tee". As you do:

1. Use one smooth motion in placing the ball on the "tee"
2. Turn the ball so that the laces are facing straight at the goal post while you are bringing the ball down
3. In the event the laces aren't pointed correctly, use your front hand to rotate the ball slightly to the proper position as the ball is being placed
4. Place the index finger of your back hand lightly on the top point of the ball to balance it at the correct position for the kicker to strike

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