\n<\/p>\n
As for making that same transaction from Gaelic to American football, both McNamee and Bolger have worked hard on mastering a different kicking technique, with both likening it to perfecting a golf swing.<\/p>\n
“The sweet spot in the ball in Gaelic is lower than on a ball in American football,” McNamee explained. <\/p>\n
“Initially, I started kicking the ball too low which meant it was over-rotating and getting no distance. So it was adjusting my angle and swing and once I’d found where the sweet spot was I was able to introduce power into it and dive a bit deeper into the foot angle, follow through, aim and finish. <\/p>\n
“I don’t really think about it now \u2013 it’s more natural and I kick that ball like I’ve been doing it for years. As my technique’s improved, I’ve added distance and there’s more to come.”<\/p>\n
For Bolger, it’s about doing the hard work in the gym away from the field. <\/p>\n
“Once I was at college I realised there was more to it than biceps curls and looking in the mirror. At Idaho State, I was in the gym with the heavy weights on my back every day. That has helped with my kicking distance. <\/p>\n
“A lot of it is mastering technique too, of course. You have to learn to keep swinging your leg the same and keep your technique. You can overthink it sometimes, definitely.”<\/p>\n<\/div>\n