Nick and I just had a lengthy conversation about this.
To answer the questions, at LSU fouling wasn’t too much an issue but there was always a goal of getting on the board. Technical demands of approach, penultimate and takeoff mechanics came first and steering / hitting the board was a secondary goal. With that said though, there wasn’t anyone in my 4 years there who had a major issue with fouling (as Nick does). So what should the focus be, we’re currently focusing on getting on the board on every jump (and acknowledging that it will be VERY difficult to do so due to the practice variability I’ve been employing) while still having good mechanics. In general, the 2 issues go hand in hand but in Nick’s case, his mechanics are generally quite good and consistent…the problem is that he’s been ridiculously consistent at being 1″ over the board so we’re placing a big focus on getting on the board.
Mike:
Do you believe this 1″ problem has been learned and ingrained during his prior development? If so what do you believe are the causes?