Punting Perfection: A Pre-Season Drill for 4A Kickers
As the Wise Pumas prepare for the upcoming 4A season, special teams coach, John Smith, emphasizes the importance of precise punting technique. To improve hang time and accuracy, Coach Smith recommends the 'Step-and-Plant' drill. Divide the kickers into pairs, with one player as the snapper and the other as the punter. Set up a 20-yard target zone. On the coach's signal, the punter takes 3-5 steps back, then plants their non-kicking foot 6-8 inches behind the ball. As the snapper snaps the ball, the punter focuses on a smooth, follow-through motion. Aim for 3 sets of 10 reps, with a 2-minute rest between sets. This drill translates to game performance by improving the punter's ability to generate power and control, resulting in longer hang times and more accurate kicks.