6 Best Kicking Blocks For High School Training Drills

Mastering the art of placekicking starts long before the ball ever clears the uprights on a Friday night. Precision begins at the ground level, where the interaction between the tee and the turf dictates the trajectory, spin, and consistency of every boot. Selecting the right kicking block is a fundamental decision that stabilizes the ball, boosts confidence, and allows the athlete to focus purely on contact mechanics.

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Ground Zero 1-Inch Block: Best Overall

The Ground Zero 1-Inch block serves as the gold standard in high school football, balancing a low profile with excellent structural integrity. Its design mimics the height used in collegiate play, making it the ideal transition tool for athletes with aspirations of competing at the next level. The block’s consistent geometry ensures the ball stays upright during even the most aggressive approach steps.

Durability is the primary hallmark here, as the high-density material holds its shape regardless of the ambient temperature or the intensity of a practice session. It resists cracking and warping even when left on a hot turf field or shoved into a gear bag for an entire season. For teams looking for a reliable, no-nonsense piece of equipment that gets the job done every single time, this is the definitive choice.

Champion Sports 2-Inch: Best Budget Pick

For teams managing tight equipment budgets or needing to outfit a large roster of kickers, the Champion Sports 2-Inch block provides incredible value. It delivers the necessary lift for younger players or those still refining their ball-striking mechanics without requiring a significant financial investment. The molded plastic construction is lightweight yet surprisingly resilient under repetitive impact.

While it lacks the heavy-duty density of premium professional blocks, it performs exceptionally well for daily training drills. It is perfectly suitable for standard grass fields and synthetic surfaces alike. If the priority is keeping an entire squad equipped for daily practice cycles, the cost-to-performance ratio of this block is unmatched.

Wizard Sports 2-Inch Block: Most Durable

When practice intensity hits its peak, equipment often bears the brunt of the wear and tear. The Wizard Sports 2-Inch block is engineered specifically to withstand heavy, high-volume repetition, making it the favorite for programs that prioritize long-term utility over everything else. The construction is remarkably robust, showing minimal degradation even after seasons of intense impact.

This block is designed for coaches who are tired of replacing gear every few months. Its stability is enhanced by a wide base that prevents the block from sliding or tipping during the approach, regardless of the surface texture. It is a workhorse tool for serious kickers who prioritize consistent feedback in every single practice rep.

Schutt Multi-Position Tee: Top Versatility

The Schutt Multi-Position Tee stands out by offering more than just a standard elevation. By incorporating different slots and angles, it allows kickers to experiment with varied launch trajectories and contact points. This is particularly useful for athletes working on specific drill progressions or those who need to simulate different wind conditions.

This tool is an asset for coaches who want to teach the nuances of ball flight rather than just standard straight-on mechanics. It bridges the gap between a beginner’s tee and a professional block, allowing for a more customized training experience. For programs that emphasize technique variety and strategic kicking, the versatility of this equipment is well worth the footprint.

Fisher Athletic 1-Inch: Best for Freshmen

Learning the mechanics of a proper approach requires a stable, predictable platform that doesn’t intimidate the kicker. The Fisher Athletic 1-Inch block is specifically sized to provide that sense of security for developing athletes. Its lower height forces the kicker to learn how to generate power through proper form rather than relying on an excessively elevated ball.

This block is an excellent starting point for any JV program or incoming freshman class. It is lightweight, easy to transport, and durable enough to survive the learning curve of a first-time kicker. Investing in this model creates a solid foundation that builds confidence through consistent, manageable results.

Pro-Down 2-Inch Block: Best for Long Kicks

Distance is often a matter of leverage and clean contact, and the Pro-Down 2-Inch block is designed to maximize both. By providing that extra inch of elevation, it allows the kicker to get underneath the center of gravity more effectively, promoting a higher, more penetrating arc. This is essential for kickers working to increase their range during long-distance drills.

The design is optimized for power-focused training sessions. It remains stable during full-speed approaches, ensuring that the kicker can trust their footing and swing path completely. For the athlete looking to push the boundaries of their field goal range, this block is the ideal training partner.

How to Choose the Right Block for Your Team

Selecting the correct kicking block requires assessing the average skill level and the specific training objectives of the roster. A team focused on building a deep bench of freshmen will benefit from lower, more stable blocks that prioritize form. Conversely, a varsity team looking to maximize distance and transition to collegiate standards should focus on pro-style heights and high-durability materials.

Consider the surface conditions of the training facility, as synthetic turf can be more forgiving on lighter plastic blocks than high-impact, dry-packed grass. Always factor in the volume of kicks taken; high-intensity programs require heavier, denser plastics that won’t deform under repetitive stress. Matching the equipment to the environment and the athlete’s development stage ensures the best training outcome.

Transitioning From a Two-Inch to One-Inch

The jump from a two-inch tee to a one-inch block is a critical developmental milestone for any kicker. This transition requires an adjustment in the swing path and the contact point, as the ball is closer to the ground. Coaches should guide athletes through this shift slowly, using high-repetition drills at half-speed to recalibrate the foot’s striking surface against the ball.

Encourage athletes to focus on “driving through” rather than “scooping under” the ball. At one inch, the margin for error is smaller, which ultimately refines the kicker’s technique and accuracy. Patience during this transition phase prevents bad habits from forming and sets the stage for more consistent, long-range accuracy.

Proper Foot Placement and Kicking Technique

Success at the tee is dictated by the plant foot’s distance and angle relative to the block. The plant foot should typically land roughly even with the block, positioned about 6 to 8 inches to the side of the kick axis. This spacing creates the necessary clearance for the kicking leg to swing through without interference.

Consistency in the approach is the primary goal of any training drill. Ensure that the kicker’s final step is explosive but controlled, with the hips square to the target. Emphasize a locked ankle on the kicking foot at the moment of impact to ensure maximum energy transfer to the ball.

Caring for Your Kicking Block Between Seasons

Maintenance is often overlooked, yet it significantly extends the life of kicking gear. After each season, thoroughly clean the blocks with mild soap and water to remove turf fibers, dirt, and rubber pellets that can degrade the plastic surface. Store them in a cool, dry environment away from direct sunlight, as prolonged UV exposure can cause the material to become brittle over time.

Inspect each block for hairline cracks or structural deformations before the start of a new training block. If a block loses its original shape, it will negatively impact the ball’s lean and lead to inconsistent flight paths. Treating these simple tools with care ensures that they remain reliable assets throughout the athlete’s career.

Equipping a team with the proper kicking blocks is a foundational step toward long-term success on the field. By choosing gear that aligns with individual development and rigorous training needs, athletes can focus on honing their craft with absolute confidence. Secure the right setup, step onto the grass, and let the results speak for themselves.