Placekicking Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations
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placekicking
[หpleษชsหkษชkษชล ]
Definition
sports
Placekicking is a technique used in American football and Canadian football where the player kicks the ball from a stationary position. It is primarily executed during field goal attempts and extra point conversions. The kicker aims to score points by getting the ball through the goalposts. Successful placekicking requires a combination of precision, timing, and technique. It is a specialized skill, often determining the outcome of close games.
Synonyms
field goal kicking, kicking.
Examples of usage
- He excelled at placekicking during his college football career.
- The team's placekicking was a crucial factor in their victory.
- She trained daily to improve her placekicking accuracy.
Translations
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Origin of 'placekicking'
The term 'placekicking' originated from the combination of the words 'place' and 'kick'. The word 'place' comes from the Old French 'place' meaning 'a space', which is relevant as the kicker needs to place the ball on a specific spot before kicking it. 'Kick' has its roots in the Old English 'cyccan' meaning 'to strike'. Placekicking as a distinct aspect of football evolved in the late 19th century when standardized rules began to take shape. Early forms of football did not differentiate between types of kicks, but as the game developed, so did the strategies and techniques associated with scoring. The placekick became a fundamental component of the game, with dedicated players honing their skills to enhance their teams' performance. Over the years, notable placekickers have emerged, contributing significantly to the sport's history and the strategies employed.