How to Grip a Football When It's Wet

Once rain begins to saturate the field, the game only seems to get more intense; plays become more challenging, the grass gets slippery and emotions are heightened. Aside from these things, the football also becomes difficult to handle. Once the pigskin is soaked, there is little friction between your fingers and the dimpled surface of the ball. By adjusting your holding and passing technique, you'll be able make it all the way to the end zone without slipping up.

Instructions

    • 1

      Remove excess water from the ball's surface by rolling it up and down your shirt. Before a play, wipe the laces of the ball on your sleeve to improve handling. If possible, pick plays involving short passes or hand-offs to prevent rain from falling on the ball mid-play.

    • 2

      Tuck the ball into your body with your forearm and bicep as you run. This is a technique used by the pros to increase their grip while sprinting or during play in wet weather.

    • 3

      Keep your fingers over the laces. The raised ridges of the lacing will provide a contour for your fingers to fall into, resulting in a better grip.

    • 4

      Grip the ball lightly as you prepare to pass. A tight, locked grip often results in poor passes and a greater chance of slippage between your palm and the ball's surface.