"Whether you think you can, or you think you can't, you are probably right!"  - Henry Ford

     The mental aspect of kicking does not start when the coach calls for the field goal team.  By the time you are called on to attempt the game winning field you have already been there 1000 times before.  Not physically, but mentally.

     Complete confidence in your ability to perform will lead you to success.  But, how do we gain confidence?

Ask yourself these three basic questions:

1. Do you visualize yourself in successful situations?
2. Do you feel nervous or anxious when asked to kick a field goal?
3. Do you know how to tune out distractions and have complete focus?

At West Coast Kicking Academy you will learn how to think like a kicker.......It is a position unlike any other in sports.  These concepts and drills will be covered in your training:

1. How to visualize.
2. How to prepare yourself on game day.
3. How to control and channel your nervous tension.
4. Developing a positive, confident mindset.
5. Developing a consistent routine.

Target Point:

"Aim small, miss small" - Mel Gibson (The Patriot)

     If you don't have a goal in mind you can never accomplish it.  The target point is important because it gives your mind a focal point and goal to reach.

1. Choose a small non moving target.
2. With normal weather conditions, the target should be directly between the uprights.
3. The target should be higher than the uprights.

NOW, CHALLENGE YOURSELF TO HIT THE TARGET........NOT TO MAKE THE FIELD GOAL!!! 

Alignment:

     Your alignment is like a the foundation of a building.  If the alignment is off then you cannot build on top of it.  No matter where you are on the field, you should always align yourself with the target point!!  Do not be lazy about this.......it could cost your team the game!!!!! 

***Consistency and Routine***

What is the purpose of taking steps?  Is it simply to look like you know what you are doing?

There are three reasons to take steps during your alignment:

1. So your alignment is correct.
2. So you always are the same distance from the ball no matter where you are on the field.
3. So you can relax.

Ask yourself these four questions:

1. Are your steps the same every time?
2. Are they repeatable under stressful situations?
3. Are you aligned properly?
4. Are you close enough to the holder so your timing will allow the ball to not get blocked?

In order for your steps to accomplish these goals, you must do the following:

1. Take normal steps backwards, do not reach or lunge.
2. Draw a straight line from your kicking foot through your target point.
3. Lock your hips.
4. Step at a 90 Degree Angle to the side.

The 90 Degree Angle is important because every kick should be a straight kick.  No matter where you are on the field you will be lined up in the same spot.