Kenny Shults holds over 40 World titles in footbag and is considered by many as the game's undisputed grand master of freestyle. His contributions and inventiveness in freestyle are illustrated in the very popular Tricks of the Trade video (available here). This issue of Footbag World highlights some of the 41 tricks featured in Kenny's video.

Spins can be done many ways, but some basic principles apply to all variations. Whether you set with an inside kick, outside kick, or some other move, you should always follow these principles.

Use an outside kick to lift the footbag about as high as your head. Be sure to keep your eyes on the footbag as the rest of your body begins to spin. When you have spun to the point that you can no longer keep your head turned toward the footbag, whip your head around very fast and regain eye contact with the footbag (this works even if your footbag doesn't have eyes). This technique is called 'spotting' and is used by dancers to avoid getting dizzy. It also helps keep the footbag in your vision as much as possible. Many players have the tendency to lean back as they come out of the spin¬don't be one of them. Remember to keep your weight forward throughout the entire spin.

Freestyle is the only event in footbag that allows upper body contact. Some players like to incorporate upper body moves in their routines.The forehead stall was one of the first upper body freestyle moves. Set the footbag slightly over your head, then lean your head back and bend your knees to stop the footbag on your forehead. The key to this move is to BEND YOUR KNEES!

Another popular upper body move, especially among soccer players, is the neck catch. Set the footbag slightly higher than your head and a little bit in front of you. Raise your arms to your sides and keep your chin up as you bend at the waist under the footbag, catching it at the base of your neck. Flip the footbag into the air by dropping your head forward as you raise your back upright. The footbag will roll up the back of your neck and the back of your head. Just before the footbag rolls off your head, you snap your head back. If your timing is right, this will send the footbag straight up. You can also release the footbag by pushing up with your legs while lifting slightly with your back to send the footbag up and a little behind you. As the footbag leaves your neck, you continue to straighten and do a half turn so you are facing the falling footbag. Good luck, and keep practicing.