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Free Soccer Drills:Heading Secrets Revealed
By OnTopic | July 20, 2010
Here’s a really simple way to control the ball to pass or shoot and it is the heading skill that can be mastered through free soccer drills. Different kinds of soccer exercises helps in the proper execution of this skill.
The question is where the player should apply the force on the ball. Its the question of which part of the head should apply force and how much force should other parts generate? Where does one want to hit the ball answers these questions.
For example, if players want to head the ball towards the ground, they’ll strike the ball with the downward motion of the forehead. The distance the ball travels after contact and the force that is applied when hit are directly proportional.
Soccer practice helps the player to decide the heading technique based on the position of the ball with respect to him. For instance, players in the defensive third generally head the ball high and wide, away from the goal.
Similarly, players in the midfield play the ball more precisely as they are often trying to head it to the attacking players.
When it comes to heading the ball, many players need to overcome the fear of being struck in the face by the ball. It is therefore necessary that while teaching heading skills, free soccer drills using a sponge type ball should be performed to address this concern.
Beach balls which are slightly larger and lighter are used to reduce fear. As a soccer coach, start teaching the heading progression by positioning players on their knees to ensure proper balance of the lower body. Players can then concentrate on the action of the upper body.
When the players are skilled enough in heading the ball in kneel down positions, they can move on to the next level – heading in the standing position. This part of the soccer coaching teaches the players about the contributions of lower body in the heading.
Then comes the tapping of the ball with a other player, first in a fixed position then in motion. Let the players to jump and head the ball with the help of a one-foot take off, when they are more confident. Challenge them by offering heading drills with subtle and game-like defensive pressure.
Another step towards adding more structure to the game and developing intentional play is to refine the heading skills.
One should really consider incorporating free soccer drills because it does not use the ball initially. And this helps young players to gain confidence in their moving skills without having to control the ball. Once they demonstrate competence with movement, add the ball to increase the challenge.
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About the author
Andre Botelho is a recognized expert in youth soccer coaching. He influences well over 35,000 youth coaches each year with his unique coaching philosophy, and makes it really easy to explode your players’ skills and make training more fun in record time. To download your free youth soccer coaching guide visit: How to coach soccer.
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