On Wednesday and Thursday of this week, Washington State University's senior punter, Reid Forrest was in Scottsdale, Arizona for a One on One Punting Lessons.
When Reid warmed up I could immediately tell this young man had a lively and power full leg. As he continued to punt I could also tell that he had some flaws in his mechanics and fundamentals.
During our first punting lesson I took a lot of video from several different angles. This video would eventually aid me in analyzing Reid's flaws. During our video review session I pointed out why Reid was having some problems punting the ball to his power zone.
Reid's footwork and drop were not sinking up. As we viewed his highlight game tape from the 2009 season, I pointed out some differences in his technique.
Reid proclaims himself as a self taught punter and a pretty good one at that. He has uniquely put together a progression of drills that he felt were giving him the correct muscle memory for himself to be successful. He has been very successful to date.
In my evaluation I told Reid that I felt he could take his game to the next level but needed to have some better fundamentals.
Day two I introduced Reid to my Drop Progression and One Step Drills. He was a quick study and advanced rapidly.
With all kicking specialists I must be careful on how much I give them. In Reid's case he was progressing nicely.
I stressed to Reid and all my clients, that you first come in a learn the fundamentals and drills. Then you take the video and all the teaching points and go home and practice. Punters must work the mirror drill relentlessly so when they go on the field they don't think about some of the most basic fundamentals.
As with most specialists in about three weeks almost everyone makes a phone call to me to say that thing are starting to click and they are making steady progress. They are thinking less and are feeling smoother.
Reid is not only a good punter but a bright young man. He is an entrepreneur and has a very good business sense. He knows this visit was an investment and time well spent. He also knows that he will only get better with practice. He is looking forward to his upcoming senior season.
It was a real pleasure meeting and working with Reid and I wish him the best of luck this upcoming season at Washington State University.
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