Bouncing

One of the features of Australian Football is its free-wheeling nature. Passing to a player with space ahead, and no danger nearby, encourages players to run freely with the ball.

A player in possession can run as far as he likes as long as he bounces the ball or allows the ball to touch the ground every 10 metres. Long runs, finishing in a goal, make up some of the most exciting components of the game.

Running with the ball has come into the game in recent years, as team plans seek out opportunities for fast-running players to be given, or gain, plenty of open space.

Main Teaching Points

1. The ball is held slightly on top by the bouncing hand.
2. The ball is pushed down with one hand.
3. The ball strikes the ground at an angle of about 45 degrees.
4. The ball is bounced far enough in front so that it will bounce into the player’s hands as he runs forward.

The distance at which the ball is thrown out in front is directly related to the player’s speed - the faster he is running, the further out in front it must be thrown.

General Coaching Hints

Begin with: 

• Bend over and bounce the ball standing still.
• Standing and bouncing, and then extend to walking and bouncing.
• Running in straight lines, and extend to weaving and dodging.
• Add an opponent to chase.
• Being able to bounce the ball with both hands will enable you to guide the ball down better and kick with either foot.

Wet weather bounce
On wet days, the ball will skid away or fail to bounce back. In this case, it should be touched on the ground, using both hands.

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