Speed and Agility for 6A Kickers: The 'Ladder to the Top' Drill
For 6A kickers looking to improve their speed and agility, the 'Ladder to the Top' drill is a game-changer. This high-intensity workout targets the quick changes of direction and rapid acceleration required to succeed in the kicking position. The drill consists of 3 sets of 5 reps: 1) Lateral shuffles through a ladder, focusing on quick footwork and body control (30 seconds); 2) Box jumps out of the ladder, emphasizing explosive power and speed (30 seconds); 3) Carioca drills through the ladder, simulating the quick changes of direction seen on the field (30 seconds). Coaches should emphasize proper footwork, staying low, and explosive power. This drill translates to game performance by improving a kicker's ability to quickly react to changing situations and rapidly accelerate downfield.