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Class III: Kicking

Of the three PUNT, PASS & KICK skills, kicking is the most natural technique for a child. Most players have kicked soccer balls or played kick ball in gym class and are familiar with the motion. They often have a basic understanding of how to approach a ball and kick it off the ground.


Difficulties arise when a child has to kick a football off of a tee and in getting used to the smaller size of a football.

To help players learn how to kick a football:
  • Place the ball on the tee at a slight angle toward the kicker, with the laces facing out.
  • Demonstrate how to kick off soccer-style by taking a three- or four-step running start, beginning at an angle to the ball, rather than directly behind it.
  • Finish the run by placing the non-kicking foot right next to the football. This foot should be pointing toward the target.
  • Continue the kick by swinging the kicking leg across the body. As the kicking foot hits the ball, the toe should be pointed down, and the laces of the kicking shoe should contact the ball about one-quarter of the way up the ball.
  • Remind players to keep their head down and watch their foot hit the ball before following through.

Tip: Getting Flexible

Warming up prepares the body for what’s to come and improves overall performance by making muscles aware of the type of movement they will soon be doing. Keeping joints flexible with a full range of motion is important in promoting overall health, balance, mobility and posture, and in preventing injuries.

Lesson 3: Training

Training means practice, practice and more practice. Training also means putting safety first. Make sure players stretch and warm up before practice and teach them about staying hydrated. Remind them that even the best athletes didn't become great overnight and that while training is hard work, the pay-off is great.

Related Drills

Jingle-Jangle
Blast Off