Special Teams - Placekicking

For you to perform a successful kick, your teammates must do their job just as well as you do yours. It's a total team effort.

Your blockers must be able to hold off the defenders from getting to you and blocking the kick.

The center must make a strong and accurate snap.

The holder needs to catch the snap and properly place the ball on the spot.

You need to maintain focus and kick the ball soundly and accurately.

As a placekicker, you are in the unique position of being able to score points whenever you take the field. This opportunity comes with increased pressure and responsibility that you must recognize and accept.

Your teammates have worked long and hard to put the ball in the best position for you to make your kick. All their work gets wasted if you are unable to perform your job successfully - it's vital you strive to be the very best kicker you can be.

As a placekicker, it's likely that you're a soccer-style kicker. It's important that your stance is comfortable and that you consistently adopt the same stance every time out.

1. Stand straight up and step forward with your non-kicking foot (the plant foot)
2. Have the heel of your plant foot just ahead of the toe of your kicking foot
3. Position your feet so that they are no wider apart than your hips
4. Maintain equal weight on both feet
5. Slightly bend both knees
6. Bend forward at the waist
7. Move your shoulders far enough forward so that they are in front of your hips
8. Relax your shoulders
9. Allow your hands and arms to hang down comfortably
10. Focus on the kicking tee/holder's hands and be prepared to attack the ball

If you practice each of these techniques away from the field, they will feel more natural and comfortable with the pads on on the field.

Stop by next time as we address the approach to the ball.