Skills for Youth Football Athletes: Catch with the Hands

Coaches teach all kids to catch with their hands, but it’s easier said than done. The reason coaches want athletes to use their hands rather than their bodies is for control. Catching the ball against the body often leads to drops and missed opportunities, especially in traffic. Catching with the hands allows players to see the ball all the way in, secure it faster, and transition quickly into running and protecting the ball.

Hall of Fame tight end Tony Gonzalez says it simply: “Always, always, always catch the ball with your hands.”

If your youth athlete needs some motivation to catch with his hands, here’s a great video: