Michael Malthouse was one of the first to use the phrase “One Percenters”. A one percenter is the little things that can help turn or even win the game for your team. One of the most famous examples of one percenters was the smother and then shepherd from Daniel Chick in the dying minutes of the 2006 Grand Final.

Some of these “One Percenters” words may be confusing so please if they are go to our Australian Football/ AFL jargon section.

Smother

A smother is when someone goes to kick or handball the football and you intercept it. This can turn the ball over from the opposition to your own team and can create opportunities to score.

Block/ Shepherd

After you handball the ball to your team mate, it is good to follow it up by running across the opposition players path to block them from getting to your team mate, so they can dispose of the ball without as much pressure.

Arms in air and Jump when standing on mark

If you place your hands in the air it makes the person kick the ball over you by an extra meter and if you jump as the ball passes you, it makes them kick it even higher. Kicking it higher can make the kick land shorter and become less accurate.

Tuck Jumper into shorts

This is not for cosmetic reasons but if you tuck the jumper into your shorts it means that there is less for your opposition to grab when they tackle you.

Tuck Shoe Laces into boot

All football players know their is a sweet spot on your boot when it gets kicked from there it flows better. With your shoe laces tucked away it can increase the sweat spot.

Add your own One Percenter

This post is designed for players and coaches so they can improve the little areas and become a better team and player. If you have any of your own “One Percenters” please add them below in the comments section. Thanks!

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