The Art of Goalkicking

The Art of Goalkicking is a forensic analysis of the multiple processes that go into the most important, yet so often misunderstood, component of Australian football—accuracy in front of goal. Drawn from David Wheadon’s extensive career as an assistant coach at many AFL clubs—and as a teacher of the next generation of coaches—the book explains how and why the most accurate goalkickers succeed over long careers. Importantly it describes the mechanics that underpin accurate kicking, provides solutions for players whose accuracy is below the required standard, examines the mental issues that can bedevil individuals, and outlines routines that can improve accuracy for all players, not just designated kickers. The Art of Goalkicking is a three-part guide, covering: • techniques and practice routines; • the art of teaching; • the art of learning. The Art of Goalkicking is a must-have resource for players and coaches; and for the fans, it explains WHY even the best of the best miss important shots on goal.

About the Author

David Wheadon has been involved in coaching in the AFL since 1985 in the fields of strategy development and teaching skills. He has been on coaching staffs during premiership years at Essendon and Geelong. Since 2009 he has been the mentor of the AFL Coaches and Players Associations’ Next Coach Program a program that has produced five senior coaches (two premierships) and numerous assistant coaches in the AFL and in other competitions around Australia. His most recent book is The Art of Coaching (Slattery Media, 2014). Other books have been Drills and Skills in Australian Football (1988, 2nd edition 1989, republished 2008), Tactics in Modern Football (1990, 2nd edition 1991), and Football Skills (1996).