| The qualities of a top-notch place-kicker can be | | | | desirable physical qualities but they also need the |
| broken down into both physical and mental | | | | following personality traits. A principal quality of any |
| preparation. Without these attributes, a kicker will | | | | player is the ability to be coached. Listening and |
| have difficulty developing their kicking game and | | | | following a coaches' instructions and responding |
| coping under pressure. | | | | positively to feedback can help any football player |
| The qualities of a top-notch place-kicker can be | | | | improve their game. Each athlete must have the |
| broken down into both physical and mental | | | | desire to master the basic fundamentals. Along with |
| preparation. Without these attributes, a kicker will | | | | their desire, the athlete must be dedicated. Can they |
| have difficulty developing their kicking game and | | | | sharpen their techniques on the everyday basis? Can |
| coping under pressure. | | | | they push themselves to reach new goals? |
| A good place kicker possesses the following physical | | | | Most importantly a place-kicker must be able to |
| characteristics: flexibility, leg speed, balance, | | | | perform under pressure. For instance, Adam Viniteri |
| coordination and consistency. Let's talk about why | | | | of the New England Patriots, recently won two super |
| each characteristic is important. | | | | bowls on last minute field goals. His performance |
| Flexibility enables the kicker exceptional range of | | | | under pressure has earned him the respect and |
| motion and follow through as he attempts field goals | | | | recognition as the best place-kicker in the NFL. Adam |
| and kickoffs. With a greater range of motion, the | | | | Viniteri's success is due to his nerves of steal and |
| kicker will increase their efficiency in their kicks. | | | | overwhelming self-confidence. Kickers need to exude |
| Flexibility is also important especially during a long | | | | confidence every time they go on the field without |
| football season to help prevent muscular and joint | | | | hesitation or fear. Projecting self-confidence involves |
| injuries. | | | | visualization, positive approach and mental toughness. |
| Speed of their leg snap is another essential factor | | | | For example, if a kicker can first visualize in his mind |
| because it determines the power and distance of | | | | that he can make a kick before he attempts it, he |
| their kick. With proper guidance a kicker can transfer | | | | will more than likely make that kick. A positive |
| their leg strength into a quick, explosive force. | | | | approach and mental focus are also two essential |
| Overall balance is vital for good results. When a | | | | qualities because as a kicker, you cannot be |
| kicker is about to make initial contact on a football | | | | distracted by your past performance. A kicker must |
| they are balancing on one foot. Balance and | | | | live for your next kick. Even if you have won the last |
| coordination are key to achieving a perfect kick. If a | | | | game on a game-winning kick, missing the next extra |
| kicker does not start in good balance he will have a | | | | point does not help your team. If you miss a field |
| difficult time finishing on balance. It will also determine | | | | goal you cannot beat yourself up, you need to focus |
| how consistent a kicker will become. | | | | at the task that lies ahead. |
| The kicker must also have the ability to control their | | | | Establishing a strong physical and mental foundation is |
| body during the kick. Along with timing and direction, | | | | essential for kickers and punters. This type of |
| this is referred to as coordination. Coordination of the | | | | foundation can differentiate a kicker over his |
| arms and legs, leg speed, upper body and balance, all | | | | competitors. By differentiating yourself, you can take |
| play an important role in kicking. Again, this will help | | | | your kicking game to the next level. Focus on your |
| determine how consistent a place-kicker will perform. | | | | goals and instill a system that will work for you. |
| Not only does a place-kicker need to have these | | | | |