by Aubry Hoffman

Created on: October 26, 2008   Last Updated: October 30, 2008

Kicking a field goal may not seem complicated to the average football fan but to those that play the sport kicking a field goal is an art to be perfected. Learning how to kick a field goal requires you to learn the basic technique and then practice as often as possible.

To kick a proper field goal you need to determine where to place the ball. If you kick with your right foot you should line up the ball with the right upright and vice versa for the left foot. This is because the ball has a tendency to pull toward the foot you have planted on the ground.

If someone is holding the ball for you they need to hold it nearly vertical, leaning the top towards you by about 15 degrees. Place your plant foot, or non kicking foot, next to the ball with the toes of your plant foot pointing at the upright. Remember, the ball will tend to go in the direction your toes are pointing. Next, take three big steps back and one side step in the direction of your plant foot. This is the distance required for a kick.

On your approach, you want to head straight at the ball, do not circle or bend your stride. Your plant foot should be even with the ball and your kicking leg should swing from the hip and towards the ball. Your leg should snap straight at the knee when contact is made with the ball and you must follow through with your kick, your leg swinging straight at the upright.

Your kicking foot should have its toes pointed down and you should strike the lower half of the middle of the ball with the top of your foot. Keep your eye on the ball the whole time to ensure a good strike. Use power but keep in mind too much force will cause the ball to pull too far in one direction.

Learning how to kick a field goal is about proper technique and practice. Who knows, with a little practice, you may be the one leading your team to its next victory.

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