How to Kick for Goal (Rugby)

Last Updated: September 16, 2021

Kicking a field goal is one of the most important aspects of rugby as games nowadays are decided by penalty goals and conversions. A good goal kicker can usually be guaranteed a place on the team. You will need a lot of objectives to cover and a lot of materials like, A rugby ball,a rugby tee,a field,rugby boots and a rugby goal.

Steps

1
Warm-Up. It is very easy to strain ligaments in your leg while goal kicking so being warmed up and stretched is essential.^{[1]
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2
Place the ball on a tee. There are numerous types of tees available and you can even use a mound of sand but ideally you want the ball leaning slightly forward, to expose the sweet spot, with a seam pointed at your target. Aim to just to the right of the posts. Point your non kicking leg to the middle of the posts.^{[2]
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3
Step away from the ball preparing your run up. This is all about personal preference. You may take 3 long steps backwards, look at the goal to make sure you are lined up correctly, and then take 2 long steps to the right, if you are a left footer. If you are a right footer, you may want to step to the left, but it is up to you. And if you prefer a different style, that's fine too: do whatever works for you.^{[3]
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4
Focus your energy into your kicking leg. You can do this lots of ways such as swinging your arms or clapping your hands together.
5
Begin your run up to the ball. As you approach the ball try to plant your non-kicking foot as close to the the tee as you can.^{[4]
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6
Shift your weight onto your non-kicking foot, and allow your kicking leg to swing through striking the ball.^{[5]
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7
Strike the ball with your instep on the sweet spot of the ball. The sweet spot is located about 1/3 up the ball.
8
Follow through with your foot for maximum height and distance.

Community Q&A

Question

How can I maximize the distance?

Community Answer

Take a longer run up. Do some leg exercises to build up your quads, calves and hamstrings.
Question

Can I kick if I am a flank?

Community Answer

Yes. If you are the best kicker on your team, then you will be the one to kick for points.
Question

Can I kick for a goal if I am playing the prop?

Community Answer

Yes. It doesn't matter what position you play.