The 'Key Ingredients' of Kicking

Stuart Lierich - Specialist Kicking Coach

Coach the PlayerNot the Program

–Stuart Lierich

"Everything Matters"

Whole of Body MovementNot merely a swing of the leg...

The Kicking Engine

Trunk

Hip Flexors (Psoas)

Quadriceps (Rectus Femoris)

Flexibility in Front, Strength at Back

Contact QualityBall & Foot

Practical Considerations

Less fixation on grip

Smaller ball

External focus to improve (outcomes)

Impact LinePath of Kicking Knee, Foot & Ball

Practical Considerations!

Any Practice Promoting Change of Direction

Running Kicks - Left/Right...Bomb or Corner...Running Shot or Centre Field Pass

"Gates" analogy

Ball Set is Key

Transfer of WeightTaking Momentum Through The Impact

Practical Considerations!

2-3 steps post kick

Airport Runway

Channel

Self Awareness is Key

Further Factors

Priming the Kicking Leg/Leg Drive

Role of Support Foot

Aiming Strategies (Place Kicking)

Practice DesignSmooth Seas Don't Make Skilful Sailors

Practical Considerations

Variability

Context

Challenge

Perception/Cues

Constraints

Benefits of Modified GamesHighlight Micro-Situations

Manipulate Constraints

More Players Involved

More Individual Attention

Creating a Learning Environment For optimal development & performance

It's All About Transfer

Coaching or Telling?

Empowerment as a Tool

Instruction & Feedback