Becoming More Visible to Div. I Coaches By Enhancing Foot Speed
Foot speed is as valuable to a football player as the vertical jump is to a basketball player. As a result, when Division I coaches are evaluating high school players, regardless of their position, they are critiquing how quick one’s feet are. The logic lies with the understanding that foot speed translates directly into a player’s versatility. To coaches versatility gives them several options when evaluating talent. Think about it if a Division I coach could recruit a player that has the foot speed to play both wide receiver and corner back or a defensive lineman that can play offensive lineman, the coach definitely will chose the player that has that dual ability. Again the coach’s judgment will lie within the players foot speed.
With so much emphasis being placed on this aspect of high school player’s game I want to introduce a drill that can greatly enhance a young player’s foot speed despite their position on the field. This drill will require a speed ladder and an area with at least 20-25 yards to run. (To view or purchase a speed ladder go to www.touchdownskills.com or click on the following link http://www.touchdownskills.com/products/ladders.html )
Quick Step Drill
This drill was taught tome when I played for the Pittsburgh Steelers and is something that I attribute much of my speed and lateral quickness.
Step 1: Set the speed ladder flat on the ground and place a cone at each end 5 yards from the beginning and end of the ladder.
Step 2: Warm Up: In order to get used to the foot work, do this part at 50-60% of your full speed. Begin at the first cone in a good athletic stance. Start running through the ladder with each foot alternating going in between each rung. It should feel like your running in short choppy steps. Run through the last cone to finish.
Step 3: Take a 30 second rest and go back. This time run through the ladder but by stepping in each rung with both feet. Repeat until you are getting used to the footwork.
Step 4: FULL SPEED. Now that you are getting a feel of the footwork, repeat step 2 and 3 but go through 80-90% full speed. While running through the ladders try not to look at your feet and pump your arms as fast as you want your feet to move. Finally make sure you sprint to each cone at the end of the ladder.
Repeat this process 5-8 times with each rotation trying to get faster and without looking down. You will want to give yourself 30 seconds in between each repetition. For maximum results integrate this workout at least 2 times a week.
