What are the Biomechanical principles involved with an AFL set shot?

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Down by a few points as the clock ticks down late in the fourth quarter of the most important game of the season. The ball sits in your hands as you trudge back off the mark. 35 metres out on a slight angle is what stands in the way of you, the sweet taste of victory beckons as does the embarrassing feelings of failure if you miss. The kick is on the way and it is a Whilst not all set shots at goal are as important as the one described in the introduction, they all serve the same purpose, the chance to put a valuable six points on the board for your team. Such an important skill requires the specific execution of several biomechanical principles allowing the kick to sail over the umpires hat. This blog will investigate the biomechanical principles involved with an AFL set shot and will provide the reader with a strong physiological and biomechanical understanding of what it takes to successfully kick the goal from your set shot. The Answer: The answer to this biomechanical question, as previously mentioned, requires the combination and key execution of several biomechanical principles in order to effectively kick the set shot through for a goal. The following sub-headings will outline these principles and will provide the reader with a strong understanding of what is required to kick an AFL set shot. What affect does the Angle of Elevation have when kicking a set shot at goal? The angle of elevation of the AFL set shot is a critical biomechanical principle that needs to be executed to the best of the players ability in order to kick the set shot through for a goal. Of course, if the AFL set shot is kicked at an angle that is too low there is a strong risk that the ball will be smothered and/or may not travel the entire distance to goal (McLester., & St. Pierre, 2008, p. 272). On the other hand, if the angle of elevation from the kick is too high then it is likely that the kick will travel higher than longer and also will not make the distance required for goal (Linthorne., & Patel, 2011, p. 1). Due to limited resources in the field of AFL biomechanics it was necessary to explore other sports with regard to angle of elevation of kicking a ball, which led me to find an investigation studied by Linthorne & Patel, (2011, p. 1) investigating the appropriate angle of elevation for a soccer punt kick. The research found through a series of testing that the approximate optimum angle of elevation was between forty and forty five degrees. Whilst this information is suggested for a soccer punt kick, the principle strongly applies for an AFL punt kick as they are both similar in technique and flight path, the main difference being ball shape and its differing affect against air/wind resistance. The reason why this number is not a specific number is due to the varying conditions that can affect the angle required to kick the goal. An example of using a forty degree angle may be because the footballer is kicking into a strong wind and does not want the ball to be effected by this outside force therefore punches the ball at a lower angle. Or alternatively, there may be a taller opponent on the mark, a ruckman for example. Therefore a kick of perhaps forty five degrees is more accurate as it allows the extra height to get over the man on the mark and still enables the ball to carry the distance required. The diagram of the NFL punter provides a similar example for an AFL player regarding the important relationship optimum angle has with regard to distance. The optimum angle allows for the trajectory to travel the distance required in this case the goals.

Diagram # 1 (University of Utah, 2012).

How does the body use Force Summation to kick the football? To kick a football through the goals from a set shot requires a specific amount of force to be placed on the ball. This force is generated and placed on the ball through a specific biomechanical principle known as force summation. Force summation occurs through three specific phases; they are the preparation phase, the action phase and the recovery phase (Capel., & Whitehead, 2010, p. 57). These three important phases allow the body to transfer energy and force from the major muscle groups of the body through to the smaller muscle groups to apply force on the implement, in this case kicking the football (Bartlett, 2007, p. 77). In the preparation phase the athlete places the body in an advantageous position to begin the action phase. In this phase the footballer is maximising the range of movement of his centre of mass allowing him to be balanced. Also in this phase the player takes a large step to create a larger leg swing also known as increasing the acceleration path (Bartlett., Gratton., & Rolf, 2010, p. 1345). The preparation stage is a vital component of force summation. This part of the muscular sequence/player technique has to be executed successfully so that the rest of the skill follows. The planted leg provides the kicker with a strong base of support and the head remains forward, resulting in the players centre of gravity remaining in front of them so that the kicker does not lose balance during the action phase. This is ensured because the players base of support remains within the centre of gravity throughout the entire kicking process. This image can be seen in picture one of diagram two at the bottom of this section. The action phase is where the larger muscle groups begin the movement of the force summation. These movements begin in the core muscles, gluteus maximus, hamstrings and quadriceps of the kicker (slow movement) as the player begins to swing his leg in the kicking motion in order to make contact with the football (Bartlett, 1999, p. 159). The force then follows from large muscle movements through to the smaller muscles groups and gains more force and speed during this phase (fast movement). These smaller muscle groups include the calf and muscles groups in the ankles and feet (Bartlett, 1999, p. 159). This is where the lower leg swings through late and fast in order to make contact with the ball in the centre of the foot. The energy and force transferred throughout the body is then implemented on the football propelling it forward toward the goals. This sequence can be seen in images three four and five of diagram number two (below). The last phase is the recovery phase also commonly known as the follow through in AFL set shot kick. This stage involves the controlled deceleration of the muscle groups involved returning them back to rest. The follow through is an important asset of the AFL set shot because without a follow through strains and other types of soft tissue injuries to the muscle groups may occur (Zatsiorsky, 2000, p. 374). If this phase is completed successfully then the force summation routine can be completed several times throughout the day. Also the follow through can have a large impact on the accuracy of the kick, following through towards the target provides the ball with the direction in which to travel which is essential for kicking set shots. This action can be seen in image number six of diagram number two below.

Diagram # 2 (Scott, A, 1965, p. 34)

What impact does the force placed on the football have during a set shot? Whilst this may be a strange point to discuss when referring to key biomechanical principles involved with a set shot, this specific one should not be overlooked by any means. This principle involves the use of Newtons Second law of Acceleration. Newtons second law is The acceleration of an object is proportional to the net force acting on it and inversely proportional to the mass of the object: F =ma (Blazevich, 2012, p. 45). The concept F = ma stands for [force = the mass of an object (football) multiplied by its acceleration (leg swing)]. The mass of the football and the amount of acceleration that the leg can generate (through force summation) are what creates the force to be placed on the ball at the point of contact (Westphal, 2008, p. 8). If not enough power is placed on the ball then it is highly likely that the ball will not travell the required distance to achieve the goal. Even if the angle of elevation is optimum, the ball will still not travel the required distance without a sufficient amount of force being placed on the ball resulting in a touched ball or even a mark to the opposition. Because the mass remains consistent with the football (approximately 200 grams) this means that the acceleration is the alternative that is subject to change in the F=MA equation. Whilst there is no limit on how far you kick the ball through the goals, placing too much force on the ball can obscure technique and possibly result in a missed attempt at goal. In the aim to create greater acceleration through the leg swing there is the realistic possibility that the player may change the correct technique that is used in order to kick the ball. A bigger back swing of the leg requires quicker acceleration before the point of contact which makes it more difficult to effectively time the ball and make contact with the specific part of the ball required for goal. Missing the required spot on the football by a margin even as small as a centimetre can drastically change the flight path of the ball affecting the score outcome.

Which part of the ball does the Point of Contact have to occur for an accurate set shot at goal?

There are several different techniques that can be employed to kick a football; however, the specific type of kick that will be explored is the drop punt. The drop punt is the preferred kick of choice when attempting a set shot (unless on an acute angle) because of its higher scoring ratio accuracy over other types of kicks at goal. To achieve a drop punt the player has to kick the ball on the under side of the centre of the football, in the bottom third of the football along the stitching line that dissects the middle of the ball. This allows the kicker to distribute the force summation through the centre of the axis of the ball and will give the football every chance of travelling straight and hopefully through the big sticks. Also at the point of contact Newtons First Law of Inertia occurs. Newtons first law states every body in its state of rest or motion of constant velocity will remain in this state until acted upon by another force (McGinnis, 2013, p. 205). Whilst the object is not at rest it is dropped at a constant rate and is then acted upon by the foot of the player in the point of contact (when ball and foot meet). As mentioned it is this stage where the transfer of force occurs as outlined above. The reason the player kicks the football in this specific spot is because of the trajectory path the ball takes as well as the backspin that occurs from making contact with this part of the ball. This part of the ball has a lower surface area which means it is easier to effectively time the middle of the football. Timing the lower-middle of the football in the middle of the kickers foot will make the ball travel in a forward/straight direction, this largely occurs due to the backspin that occurs after this connection with the foot. The backspin placed on the ball allows it to remain in the air for a longer period of time as well as propelling the football in a straight direction as the ball moves through the air resistance. This can be described through the assistance of the Magnus effect. The back spinning ball causes lower pressure on top of the ball propelling it slightly in an upright direction travelling against gravity (as indicated in diagram three). The football follows the direction of high pressure to low pressure which allows the football to travel a longer distance than compared to if it was kicked in a top spinning motion which can be essential when trying to obtain an extra few metres in the hope the kick is not touched on the line. If the ball rotates on an angle or even its side there is a strong possibility that the ball will not travel in a straight direction which may be the difference between a goal or behind

Diagram # 3 (Brown, 2000).

YouTubeClips: Check out these two clips regarding kicking and goal kicking in AFL. The clips look at normal kicking and goal kicking which are both similar in technique. Whilst the clips do not talk about the biomechanics of set shot goal kicking, there is a strong focus on the technical aspects of kicking that this blog has looked at. Try to use the biomechanics knowledge that you have attained from this blog and apply them to the video to determine how/why the kickers are so effective.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=bT_8p6lBCMY https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=XpxC67Xr5vU

Howelse canwe use this information? Some of the most popular sports in the world involve kicking some sort of ball. Whether this is a round ball, used in soccer, or an elliptical shaped ball similar to that used in AFL, American Football or Rugby. The key biomechanical principles discussed throughout this blog, although in cases may have to be adapted, can all be used and are equally important to these other sporting codes as it is to an AFL set shot. For instance, soccer keepers are the only players allowed to hold the ball and kick it with a similar technique to that of an AFL set shot. However, this is where the similarities in technique end. The way the ball is held is different, the way it is dropped is different, the point of contact on the ball is different (National Soccer Coaches Association of America, 2004, p. 166), much differs as you can see. Nevertheless, even though these technical areas differ from one another, the biomechanical principles remain the same. The keeper must kick the ball at an appropriate angle of elevation so that he clears the first line of defence and is able to direct the ball to a team mate of choice. Also the power he places on the ball through Newtons law of acceleration determines how far the ball will travel, determining the effectiveness of the kick. Whilst the technique differs from that of an AFL set shot, the keeper uses the three phases of force summation to help him place a strong amount of force on the ball at the point of contact. And of course if the point of contact does not completely make contact with the specific part of the ball intended there will be a strong possibility the kick will deviate away from its original target.

Another example may be the extra conversion point in rugby that can be achieved after scoring a try. This type of kick completely differs to that of an AFL set shot. Instead of having the ball in hand, the ball remains in contact with the ground supported by a kicking stand which slightly raises the ball above the ground surface. This type of kick is completely different to that of an AFL set shot however the same principles must be employed to ensure that the conversion is scored. The angle of elevation has to be precise, the crossbar is three metres high and the ball has to pass over that height and between the goal posts to record a score. If the elevation is not precise or at least near enough the ball will unlikely travel the distance and may not make it over the crossbar. This same principle applies for the force created, if the force is too low the ball may not travel the required distance. One principle that remains constant is the part of the ball to make contact with (as seen in the image below). Making contact with this point will allow the ball to travel forward whilst spinning backwards allowing for it to travel straight and remain in the air longer. The process of force summation also is required through the preparation, action and recovery phase to create a large to be placed on the ball so that it can travel the required distance.

Conclusion The next time you are having a set shot at goal whether it is at practice, in a game or just having fun at the park; try to remember these principles and how they impact the kick. If you are able to

execute a solid technique incorporating these biomechanical principles the results will be more often than not successful. The most important aspect of the kick is to practice, practice, practice and if the game rests in your hands like the situation highlighted in the introduction you will have the confidence and knowledge of how to kick the set shot and win the game for your team. GOOD LUCK!

REFERENCES: AFL Community Club. (2012, August 2). AFL Skills Guide 2. Kicking. Accessed 18. 4. 2013 from https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=bT_8p6lBCMY AFL Community Club. (2012, August 2). Kicking Guide for Coaches 13 Goal Kicking. Accessed 18.4.2013 from https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=XpxC67Xr5vU AFL Official Website. (2013). AFL Official Website Home Page. Accessed 17.4.2013 from www.AFL.com.au Bartlett, R. (1999). Sports Biomechanics, Reducing Injury and Improving Performance. New York, NY: Routledge. Bartlett, R. (2007). Introduction to Sports Biomechanics Analysing Human Movement Patterns. 2nd ed. Abington, OX: Routledge. Bartlett, R., Gratton, C., & Rolf,C. (2010). Enclycopaedia of International Sports Studies. Abington, OX: Routledge. Brown, E. (2000). Conditions of Linear Motion. Accessed on 17.4.2012 from https://www.msu.edu/course/kin/400/linear_motion.htm Capel, S., & Whitehead, M. (2010). Learning to Teach Physical Education in the Secondary School. 3rd ed. New York, NY: Routledge. Linthorne, P., & Patel, S. (2011). Optimum projection angle for attaining maximum distance in a soccer punt. Journal of Sports Science and Medicine, 10(1) 203-214. Retrievedhttp://bura.brunel.ac.uk/handle/2438/5487? mode=full&submit_simple=Show+full+item+record McGinnis, P. (2013). Biomechanics of Sport and Exercise. 3rd ed. Champaign, IL: Human Kinetics. McLester, J., & St. Pierre, P. (2008). Applied Biomechanics: Concepts and Connections.Belmont, CA: Thomson Wadsworth. National Soccer Coaches Association of America. (2004). The Soccer Coaching Bible.Champaign, IL: Human Kinetics. Scott, A. (1965). A Manual of Australian Football. Sydney: Lansdowne Press. University of Utah. (2012). Science of the Punt. Accessed on 18.4.2013 from http://sportsnscience.utah.edu/science-of-the-punt/

Westphal, L. (2008). Hands on Physical Science.New York, NY: Prufock Press. Zatsiorsky, V. (2000). Biomechanics in Sport. Carlton, VIC: Blackwell Science Ltd.

This entry was posted in Uncategorized on April 23, 2013.