Kicker Prep: Building Leg Strength for Muskegon Big Reds and Beyond
At the start of the pre-season, kickers at Div 2 programs like Muskegon Big Reds need to focus on building leg strength and power. One effective drill to incorporate into your training is the "Ladder Hop with Resistance Band." Set up a ladder on the field and have the kicker stand at one end. Loop a resistance band around their ankle and attach it to the ladder. On the coach's signal, the kicker hops through the ladder, focusing on quick footwork and explosive power. Complete 3 sets of 10 reps, resting for 30 seconds between sets. As the kicker hops, emphasize the importance of keeping their knee bent and their weight forward. This drill translates to game performance by improving agility and power on kickoffs and punts. It also enhances the kicker's ability to maintain balance and control under pressure.