Boosting 4A Kicker Range: Oaks Christian Lions' Pre-Season Drill
As the 2026 season approaches, Oaks Christian Lions' special teams coach, John Smith, is focusing on building the kicking range of his 4A kickers. One key drill to achieve this goal is the 'Step-Back, Plant, and Strike' progression. Start by having your kicker stand 30 yards from the goalposts. On the first set, have them kick from the 30-yard line, focusing on proper footwork and technique. For the next two sets, increase the distance by 5 yards, but require the kicker to step back 2 yards before planting their non-kicking foot. This drill translates to game performance by improving accuracy and range under pressure. Aim for 3 sets of 5 reps, with a 2-minute rest between sets. Coach your kicker to maintain balance and follow through on the kick.