Kicking into Gear: St. Augustine Purple Knights' Kicking Drill
The St. Augustine Purple Knights' coaching staff has developed a drill to improve the accuracy and power of their kickers. The 'Target Takedown' drill involves 3 sets of 10 reps, with a 2-minute rest in between sets. Players start 15 yards from a target (a large cone or marker) and are given a snap from a holder. They must kick the ball through the target, focusing on proper footwork and follow-through. Coaching cues include 'plant and strike' for the initial foot strike and 'follow through to the target' for a consistent kicking motion. This drill translates to game performance by improving kickers' ability to make high-pressure kicks from varying distances, a crucial aspect of 4A football. By incorporating this drill into their pre-season training, the Purple Knights' kickers will be ready to take on the competition.