Techniques &   Perfection

Holding The Ball

Whether pointing or shooting, the ball is best held in the palm of the hand facing the ground. This method can create a lot of backspin to the ball as close to the jack as possible.

Ground Conditions

When throwing the ball, it is very important to examine the ground condition before you step into the circle. You must determine the landing spot of your ball and the actual path that the ball takes in order that it goes close to the jack. Backspin on the ball is necessary to achieve this. Depending on ground condition, you must determine if you want to point in a standing position or a squat position. You must also know if the condition requires you to roll the ball, throw a low-lob or a high lob. One must look out for uneven terrain, stones and tree roots and know how to counter them. A ball in front of the jack is much better than balls that are behind. This acts as your defense and the possibility of a mistake by your opponents to knock your ball closer in their attempt to point. If the opponent's ball is in front or close to the jack, it is best to get your shooter to clear away that ball before you point.

Position Of The Feet In The Throwing Circle

Pointing In A Standing Position

In a standing position, you must ensure that you are comfortable with your balance. It is recommended that you keep the foot on the same side as your throwing hand slightly in front of the other foot. Also determine the landing spot before you release the ball. You must ensure that you do not of your foot completely off the ground. It is commonly known as a foot fault and in competition you could be penalized by the Umpire. 

To counter balance the throwing arm, you may hold another ball with the non throwing arm or to swing it in the opposite direction or holding it out to the side.

One must not leave the circle before the ball lands.

Pointing In A Squat Position

This position is particularly suitable when you have to point short distance of 6 to 8 metres. In this position, you can actually judge the ground better and determine the point of landing of your ball. Balance plays a big part in this position as some players may find it more difficult to squat. Avoid this position if the jack is too far away and the ground is uneven. It is not normal to shoot from this position but may want to push your own ball nearer to the jack or wants to move the jack behind towards your balls.

Pointing In A Half Squat Position

Similar to the standing position but with knees bent and body position bent slightly forward. It can achieve a certain amount of accuracy if the distance is slightly forward. It can achieve a certain amount of accuracy if the distance is from 7 to 8 metres.

The High Lob (La Plombee)

Unless you are very good in the sport, to so a high lob is the most difficult throw. I is very effective if the path to the jack is obstructed by your opponent's balls.

The feet is spaced apart to have a good balance. Hold the ball with your hand by the side of your body, determine the spot where you want to drop the ball. then, must be able to throw the ball to a substantial height in order that the ball could drop down vertically. A lot of backspin is required to stop the ball from rolling upon impact. Good judgment is required to drop the ball on a predetermined spot. This method is very effective on uneven rough ground, soft ground and grass.

Shooting 

Normally shooting is best done at a standing position. For good balance, it is essential to keep your feet on the side of the throwing hand slightly in front of the other feet. There are different kind of shooting. One is to shoot by throwing your ball a few feet in front of the opponent's ball in order that it may slide and hit it. The other is what the French call "Tir Au Fer" which is to shoot straight and cleanly at the opponent's ball. You may be able to achieve a "carreau" if one can shoot at the base of the target ball and displace it and your ball stays in its place. This is the best and your greatest achievement, to shoot a carreau is like you have score a goal in soccer.