line-out ball position

Question
hello, I'm 15 years old and play hooker for my high school team in canada. I was wondering if you have any advice on how to hold the ball to get more accurate throws. I have the right power but lots of my throws don't go to straight or to low, Usually around chest level of the jumper and either left or right.

many thanks.

Answer
G'day Steve

Here is a usefull link for you on line out the throw in:

http://www.coachesinfo.com/article/?id=83



Usually you should grip the ball at the end closest to you. Evenly on one side. The left hand (if you are a right hander) should be a guide.

On release keep your hands UP - "look through" your hands at the jumper / target.

It sounds like you have timing and target issues rather than grip.

Make sure you work with your jumper. He needs to present a clear and consistent target. Make the jumper create a target for you with his hands. The jumper should have his hands splayed out thumbs touching / fingers spread. That "circle" created buy the two hands is your target. If the jumper's hands are all over the place then so will your throw. ZONE IN on that target and hit it. Look through your hands at the target - keep your hands up, do not let them drop - that brings the ball low.  

For an excersise: have the jumper hold a peice of wood or cardboard the size of a dinner plate in his hands with a target drawn on it - hit the target!

If your jumper is being lifted and looks like a wriggling worm in the arms of his props then work needs to be done on the lifting.

After training spend time with the lifters and jumpers working on timing.

Once the "target" is locked in you can work with your jumper during a game. He will be able to place the target where ever he likes and have you hit it. He could fake a high throw and suddenly drop his target to his chest and you hit it. The opposite jumper will not be able to figure it out.