Catching the kicked ball

Players should:

• communicate with team mates to confirm they will be attempting the catch, e.g. “Jim's ball”
• move under the ball and keep eyes on it at all times
• assess whether the ball can be caught by staying on the ground or by jumping into the air to catch it
• if staying on the ground to catch:

• • move forward underneath the ball and adopt a strong, stable stance
  • position with their shoulder and hip towards opponents
  • extend their arms in the direction of the ball, keeping elbows together
  • catch the ball at eye level, watching it into their hands, arms and eventually into the body
  • be ready to move/play the ball/take contact as soon as the catch has been made

• if jumping into the air to catch:

• • move forwards onto the descending ball
  • time jump into the air taking off from one foot
  • non-take-off leg can be used to protect from opposition - lead with the knee
  • brace for potential collision with competing players
  • extend their arms in the direction of the ball, keeping elbows together
  • catch the ball at eye level, watching it into their hands, arms and eventually into their body
  • be ready to move/play the ball/take contact on landing