In the Australian football league (AFL), it’s all about the kick. It’s the way to take a mark, and the only way to score a goal. Learning how to kick an AFL ball effectively is key to a good match.
The most basic kick that every player should master is the drop punt, which is done by dropping the ball so that its end hits the lower laces of your boot, causing the ball to spin end-over-end. While it sounds simple, there is a lot of technical skill that goes into it to ensure an accurate hit. You have to hold the right posture, have the proper grip and release, and follow through with your kick.
It also helps to have the right AFL gear from Intersport, like a great pair of football shoes (be sure to find out if FG/AG boots are for AFL!) and a regulation AFL ball.
Types of AFL Kicks
Any footy player should learn the different ways to kick an AFL ball with the aim to master those kicks, understanding that good kicking skills are the greatest weapon in the AFL. Here are the most common types of AFL kicks, how to do them, and when to use them:
Drop Punt
The drop punt is the most common and effective way of kicking in the AFL. It’s easy to execute, done by holding the ball evenly on each side and then releasing it for a kick. It’s very accurate, particularly over longer distances, and if you can get the ball spinning end-over-end as it flies, it’s easy to receive.
To kick a drop punt, line up your body with your hips square towards the direction of your target and with your head slightly slanted over the ball. Hold the ball vertically at ninety degrees with the nose (‘cross’) end of the ball facing the ground and the lacing facing forwards. Spread your hands evenly on either side of the ball, with your thumbs pointing naturally towards the top without touching the main seam. Guide the ball down with the same hand as your kicking foot until it’s positioned in front of your thigh (or just above knee height). Keeping the ball upright, release it when the kicking foot is raised into the kick. Fully extend your foot and ankle on impact to follow through.
The drop punt can be used in almost any match situation, whether the player is on the run or lining up for the shot.
Torpedo
A torpedo is similar to a drop punt, except the hands are placed on each side of the ball with one hand slightly higher than the other. The ball is dropped onto the foot with a slight turn, allowing it to turn on its axis in the air like a torpedo, hence the name. This kick is effective at travelling long distances but is a little more difficult to catch from the receiving end. That said, it’s great to use to kick over zonal defences or to score from a long-range out.
Check-Side
The check-side, also known as a ‘banana kick,’ happens when the ball is dropped at a forty-five-degree angle across the boot. It’s hard to pull off, but when done right, the ball spins sideways in the air, making it look like a banana. It’s useful when you need to make a goal from a tight angle, so it’s often performed near the boundary line.
Dribble
A dribble is used to move the ball along the ground, done by kicking it end-over-end so that it spins forward. To do it, you have to grip the ball at an angle (about forty-five degrees, similar to a banana kick) and make sure that it bounces off the ground after leaving the foot.
The kick is often used to pass the ball to another player to make a goal from a narrow-angle (even tighter than what you’d use a check-side for) near the post.
Place
A place is uncommon today, particularly because it takes some time to prepare. It involves placing the ball on the ground, standing up vertically on a mound, with the player then kicking it off the ground.
It used to be done to shoot goals or to restart players, but nowadays, it’s more typically done in the middle of the match.
Gearing Up for the AFL With Intersport
Kicking is footy’s most basic skill. There are plenty of ways to kick an AFL ball, and each one requires a certain level of technique to master. Whether you’re practising or playing, you’ll want to ensure that you’re always at your best, which you can do with the best AFL gear from Intersport. From balls to footwear to headgear, Intersport has everything you need!
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