Kick (football)

A kick in association football (soccer) is the act of striking the ball with the foot. It is the most fundamental and frequent action performed by players to move the ball, and is crucial for all aspects of the game, including passing, shooting, clearing, and tackling.

Types of Kicks

Kicks can be categorized based on the part of the foot used, the ball's state, or the intended trajectory and purpose:

• Instep Kick (Laces Shot): Utilizes the top of the foot (laces area) for power and long-range shots or passes. It generates significant force and a relatively straight trajectory.
• Inside of the Foot Kick (Push Pass): Employs the large surface area on the inside of the foot for accuracy, control, and short to medium-range passes. It's often used for precise through balls or keeping possession.
• Outside of the Foot Kick: Uses the outer edge of the foot to impart curve or swerve to the ball, often to bend around defenders, create crossing opportunities, or for quick, unexpected passes.
• Toe Punt: While generally discouraged in modern football for passing due to lack of control, it involves striking the ball with the very tip of the boot. It can be used for quick, unexpected shots in congested areas or for urgent clearances.
• Chip Shot: A kick designed to lift the ball with a high, arcing trajectory, typically to lob it over an opposing player, often a goalkeeper, into the net.
• Volley: A kick performed when the ball is in the air and has not yet touched the ground. It requires precise timing and technique.
• Half-Volley: A kick executed just as the ball bounces off the ground, often used when there isn't enough time to control the ball.
• Punt: Specific to goalkeepers in association football (and a common action in other codes like Australian rules football), this involves dropping the ball from the hands and kicking it before it hits the ground to clear it a long distance downfield.
• Place Kick: A kick taken when the ball is stationary on the ground, such as for a goal kick, free kick, penalty kick, or kick-off.
• Bicycle Kick (Overhead Kick): An acrobatic move where a player leaps into the air, leans backward, and kicks the ball over their own head, often used for spectacular shots on goal or clearances.
• Scorpion Kick: Another highly acrobatic move where a player, usually facing away from the goal, dives forward and kicks the ball backward over their head with their heels.

Technique

Effective kicking technique generally involves:

1. Approach: Taking a few steps towards the ball to generate momentum.
2. Plant Foot: Placing the non-kicking foot beside the ball, pointing towards the target. This foot provides balance and stability.
3. Striking Surface: Choosing the appropriate part of the kicking foot based on the desired power, accuracy, or curve.
4. Body Position: Leaning slightly over the ball for power, or leaning back to lift the ball.
5. Follow-Through: Continuing the kicking motion in the direction of the target after contact, which ensures full power and accuracy.

Role in the Game

Kicking is the primary method of ball distribution, attack, and defense in football. Mastery of various kicking techniques is a hallmark of skilled players, allowing them to control the tempo of the game, create scoring opportunities, and deny opponents.

See Also

• Football (soccer)
• Passing (football)
• Shooting (football)