Feedback is an important component of learning how to kick. When providing feedback to a player we suggest the below guidelines are followed. One option you can consider is using an iPhone/iPad (or similar) to film a player’s kicking technique to provide immediate feedback. When a player can see themselves in action, they can believe and understand what they are doing.
Here is a range of suggestions for words to use with players at the elite level. Remember to not utilise these all at once. Based on what you see, select the most appropriate feedback (one or two items at a time)
- Relax and be calm (you are in the bubble)
- Let outside influences go
- Face up or get back off the mark quickly – give yourself time to set up and get the hands ready
- Let your feet dance – take short steps and set your hips toward the target
- Scan quickly to find your target – have the ball ready to kick then go back to the basics
- When running fast, keep the ball slightly outside your kicking leg
- Run at the target – and don’t run offline
- Watch the target, then watch the ball and trust your kick
- Concentrate every time and make your kick count
