Not many people know that there is a "free kick" rule in American Football. Whenever there are two minutes or less in a half, a punt returner can let the referee know that they are going to "fair catch" a punt and that they would like to execute a "free kick." This free kick allows for a kicker to attempt a field goal without a rush. Opponents must line up at least 10 yards away from the spot of the kick. The kicker can then take as many steps as they'd like to try and make the field goal which will result in three points if the kick is good.
In Rugby, there is a designated player that takes all of the free kicks. Unlike American Football, after the kick, the rugby kicker doesn't go off the field and grab a cup of Gatorade. They must stay on the field and continue playing. So, on top of having to be an accurate kicker, they must run, catch, pass like everyone else on the "pitch."
As we exchanged philosophies, we discovered the rugby kickers approach the ball at a much more wider angle than American kickers. They also take many more steps to the ball. Therefore, there is more room for error. Their belief is that they can get better torque on the ball with their hips. I explained that the principles are the same, consistent set up, distance from the ball, and approach to effectively transfer one's energy into the ball. However, I felt that if trained properly, we could improve their accuracy rate.
Our first couple of sessions took place on the field. I had NFL prospects John Koker and Jared Ballman demonstrate American Football kicking. John Koker has one of the smoothest forms that I have seen. Both John and Jared have strong legs. My point to the Italian coaches was that you can still use your hips when kicking the American style, which uses a more narrow angle approach, and still generate solid power and accuracy.
Besides John and Jared, Dallas Cowboys' punter Mat McBriar was getting a light punt in as he prepared for the Pro Bowl. There is a "spiral" kick in Rugby, but it is used while the player is running. All and all the Italian coaches were able to see first hand proper kicking and punting techniques.
Our next session was focused on tackling. Former NFL long snapper and Husted Kicking coach Mitch Palmer spent a couple of hours reviewing with Daniele and Philippe proper tackling techniques. During this session Mitch also demonstrated snapping a football. In rugby, there is a throw-in where one player is hoisted up in the air by a couple of team mates to receive the ball. They were impressed with how the football was handled and the smooth technique used to generate power and accuracy while long snapping. Who knows, maybe they will start throwing the ball in with the new technique...
Our last couple of sessions were focused on Sport Psychology and Position specific training for kickers. While I was playing in the NFL, I spent a few years training under Mackie Shilstone. Mackie had developed a training program specifically for kickers. Focusing on the core, a stable torso, speed and flexibility, this program significantly improves the necessary muscles utilized while kicking field goals. There were many great exercises that Mackie taught me that I was able to show and teach Philippe and Daniele.
My time spent coaching Daniele and Philippe were great. I learned a great deal about rugby and was able to share with them through proper demonstration American Football kicking. I have no doubt that they left with a great understanding and appreciation for the craft. I look forward to the opportunity to visit Italy and see how they are implementing our style of kicking with the National Team as well as the younger players in their academies across the country.
