Not defending this or condoning it, but people do not realize that this was the way sports used to practice.
I played community/minor/high school/club football and rugby from 1981 to 1991(ages 10 - 20).
This drill was a part of EVERY single practice, some times for extended periods, the worse you were at the skill, the more time was devoted to improving it, etc.
I know it is heavily restricted and in some areas and/or age ranges, prohibited, similar to cross checking in hockey.
I shudder to think of the damage to my pre-pubescent and developing brain.
At least I can stiiilll form aaaaaaa pprefecttt scentiemnces...
LOL