Download this page as a PDF HERE
Kicking a ball is a skill that can be difficult for a person who is blind or visually impaired. Here are several possible equipment adaptations that may help:
- Use a large and colour-contrasted ball or one with a sound source in it.
- Use a ball that is soft or partially deflated to prevent it from hurting the foot or travelling too far.
- Place the ball on a small flat cone or a slightly raised area to prevent it from moving around when practising.
- Paint or create a tactile target on the ball itself to help with a better and more efficient kick.
- Vary the size of the ball
- Create a large targeted area to kick the ball towards. Use sound or light to help with targeting.
- Use a sound emitting target such as hanging bells on a net to create some auditory feedback on the success of the kick.
Activities:
1) Kicking a Ball
Note: Check out the NW Association for Blind Athletes’ video HERE and supporting document HERE.
a. Divide the kick into the steps:
- Stand behind the ball.
- Step and plant the non kicking foot beside the ball.
- Point in the direction of the target.
- Swing back with the kicking leg, then make impact with the ball with the inside of the foot, following through with the leg past the striking point.
b. Once comfortable with the technique, you can introduce kicking towards a target, kicking in motion, and small sided games.
More Games/Drills to Support Kicking a Ball
(see Games & More section in this manual for descriptions):
• Soccer
• California Kickball
• Distance Kick