Ruckwork

The role of the ruckman is a crucial one in Australian Football. A good ruckman sets up play from a variety of contests such as the centre bounce or boundary throw-in. To create opportunities for his smaller, running players, it is important that a ruckman has the skill to direct the ball to his teammate’s best advantage. It is worth watching top-class ruckmen such aa Peter Everitt to see how they use their various skills.

The techniques involved in ruck work are needed to move the ball toward goal or to get the ball to teammates from a ball-up or boundary throw in.

Main Teaching Points

1. At first, practise in a standing position extending to a run-in and jump.
2. Practise without opposition and then extend the practice to include an opponent.
3. Hit with the palm and then use the fist.
4. Attempt two-handed hitting and then progress to one-handed palming.

Palming

Palming to the Front - One Hand

Watch the ball through the air and leap off one foot using the arms and other leg to gain lift.
The arm is swung forward.
The ball is hit with the open palm and fingers and directed with a straight follow-through.

Palming to the Front - Two Hands

The hands are positioned behind the ball and the ball is hit with both open hands simultaneously.
The ball is directed with a follow-through towards the target.

Palming to the Forehand

The player leaps for the ball and contacts it with the open palm.
In the hitting action, the arm should be straight with a follow-through in the desired direction across the body.

Palming to the Backhand

The player leaps (off one leg or two) and the arm is bent immediately before impact.
The arm is straightened at the elbow and the ball is directed to the backhand side with the open hand.

Palming over the Back