How to Get Hands Ready to Catch a Football

In football one of the most valuable skills to have as a receiver is the ability to catch the football properly with the hands. Some players take this skill for granted, but getting the hands ready to catch a football in a fundamentally sound position can be the difference between winning and losing a football game.

Instructions

1. Bring your hands up with palms out when catching a high pass. Be careful not bring the hands up too quickly because it will signal to the defensive player that the pass is coming. This gives the defensive player a better opportunity to knock you down or intercept the pass.

2. Form a diamond figure your index finger and thumbs as the pass nears you. This diamond configuration allows both hands to be close together, thus not allowing any room for the pass to slip between your hands.

3. Spread the fingers out to give yourself the best opportunity to catch the football. Do not point any of the fingers towards the incoming pass, as this may result in a jammed or broken finger. Spreading the fingers makes for a larger catching area and prepares you to grab the pass comfortably and safely.

4. Turn the hands down to catch a football below the waist. In essence, you want to form a basket to catch the football. The wrist should be facing upward towards the receiver with hands close together.

5. Keep the elbows close to the body and form a V on a low catch. This V extends out from the body. Spread the fingers out as you wait for the pass.

6. Use the hand to cushion or absorb the pass. For either a high or a low pass, you should use the hands to absorb to velocity of the pass and to secure the catch. As you extend the hands to catch the pass, bring them slightly back towards the body to envelope the football into your body.