Beginner - One-step kick

ONE-STEP KICK TECHNIQUE

As mentioned previously when you start it is important to go through each step one at a time and not rush through them all at once. If you miss a step it makes it difficult to master a good kick. Follow the steps below to improve your one-step technique.

1. Look at the Target, then watch the ball
2. Turn the ball to point down at 90 degrees
3. Have the laces facing outwards and your hands on the side of the ball
4. Turn the wrist down and ensure your fingers are pointing downwards
5. Spread the fingers out on the ball to make sure you have a strong grip
6. Look and search for your target, set the feet quickly
7. Look at the sweet spot whilst keeping the ball in place so that it drops at 90 degrees to the ground
8. Guide the ball down with one hand (same hand as kicking leg)
9. Bend your arms and hold the ball in line with the kicking leg (the spin line should be facing upright)
10. Take one step and kick the ball (Head towards the target by stepping forwards on the left and kick on the right). Ensure the correct contact point with the foot via connection with the red dot (sweet spot).
11. Have your leg swing and follow through straight at the target

💡Note: You may need to assist the player in demonstrating the steps involved or show them the instructional video. Hold a player’s hand and guide them through the steps. You may need to assist with each step involved until the player understands and then shows some success. Praise and feedback even on minor improvements are vital.

Common problems players have mastering the one-step kick

There are a number of common errors that players commit with the one-step kick. These are highlighted by the images below.

Incorrect grip and fingers not spread

Solution / Drill

• Ensure correct ball size for player
• Size 2 for Juniors | Size 4 for Women | Size 5 for Seniors
• Spread fingers, cover more surface area with the hand on the ball.

Holding the ball too high

Solution / Drill

• Hold ball lower
• The closer you push the ball down to your foot the less room for error

let's the ball drop, has no hand on the ball

Solution / Drill

• You must guide the ball down with one hand (the same hand as your kicking leg)
• Guide the ball down (refer to seated drill)

Leaning back - leads to poor connection with the foot

Solution / Drill

• Momentum and body weight goes forward
• Step forward towards the target even after you kick