A very important aspect of kid's soccer is learning how to
control the ball effectively. Whether it is passed on the ground or in
the air, there are specific soccer tactics you can use in order to
receive and keep the ball in your possession.
This act is commonly known as "trapping," and is typically performed when a player is attempting to slow down the speed of a ball before making the next touch. When trapping the ball, there are numerous parts of your body you can use depending on the situation. Here are four of my favorite to get you started.
The most important to teach first when coaching soccer for kids is the foot trap. This is most likely to be used when the ball is passed on the ground. There are several ways that this can be accomplished: using the inside, outside, or sole of the foot. Simply cushion the pass enough to gain control and keep it within dribbling range.
Next, you can use the thigh trap. This requires the player to use extreme caution in order to avoid injury. When the ball is around waist height, it is wise to use a portion of your thigh to cradle the ball by getting slightly underneath. This is also a very good technique, since you are not permitted to use your hands in any way. Again, be careful to gauge the speed of the ball well and avoid contact with any sensitive areas.
Third, there is the chest trap. One of the more difficult techniques to master, this method is best used for loftier passes at quicker speeds. First, slightly bend your back just enough to create a "platform" from which the ball can bounce off of. Next, straighten out your arms firmly alongside your body. Try practicing this with a friend initially by tossing the ball back and forth to one another. It will take some time to find a comfortable angle that works best for you.
Lastly, a player can attempt to use their head. This is by far the hardest of the four, but can really come in handy at crucial moments. When trying to perform a head trap, it is extremely difficult to keep control. It will take a lot of time and practice to learn this soccer tactic, as the ball can easily reflect in many different directions if not handled correctly.
Therefore, you must attempt to bend your knees and position your head overtop the ball, aiming your forehead towards the ground. If the ball is kicked too high to get into this position, you can also attempt to connect right around your hairline while gently propping the ball up so that it can land at your feet.
As a reminder, be sure to continually practice these youth soccer drills with a friend to recognize the best results. Overtime, you will witness an improvement in your overall ball control and playing ability.
This act is commonly known as "trapping," and is typically performed when a player is attempting to slow down the speed of a ball before making the next touch. When trapping the ball, there are numerous parts of your body you can use depending on the situation. Here are four of my favorite to get you started.
The most important to teach first when coaching soccer for kids is the foot trap. This is most likely to be used when the ball is passed on the ground. There are several ways that this can be accomplished: using the inside, outside, or sole of the foot. Simply cushion the pass enough to gain control and keep it within dribbling range.
Next, you can use the thigh trap. This requires the player to use extreme caution in order to avoid injury. When the ball is around waist height, it is wise to use a portion of your thigh to cradle the ball by getting slightly underneath. This is also a very good technique, since you are not permitted to use your hands in any way. Again, be careful to gauge the speed of the ball well and avoid contact with any sensitive areas.
Third, there is the chest trap. One of the more difficult techniques to master, this method is best used for loftier passes at quicker speeds. First, slightly bend your back just enough to create a "platform" from which the ball can bounce off of. Next, straighten out your arms firmly alongside your body. Try practicing this with a friend initially by tossing the ball back and forth to one another. It will take some time to find a comfortable angle that works best for you.
Lastly, a player can attempt to use their head. This is by far the hardest of the four, but can really come in handy at crucial moments. When trying to perform a head trap, it is extremely difficult to keep control. It will take a lot of time and practice to learn this soccer tactic, as the ball can easily reflect in many different directions if not handled correctly.
Therefore, you must attempt to bend your knees and position your head overtop the ball, aiming your forehead towards the ground. If the ball is kicked too high to get into this position, you can also attempt to connect right around your hairline while gently propping the ball up so that it can land at your feet.
As a reminder, be sure to continually practice these youth soccer drills with a friend to recognize the best results. Overtime, you will witness an improvement in your overall ball control and playing ability.
Jeff Logue is co-creator and primary author of the soccer for
kids blog, providing the most relevant and educational training for
youth soccer coaches and players.
Soccer for Kids [http://www.soccerforkidsblog.com/]--Click this link for additional tips and free information.
Soccer Positions [http://www.soccerforkidsblog.com/uncategorized/soccer-positions-the-role-of-the-keeper/]
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Soccer for Kids [http://www.soccerforkidsblog.com/]--Click this link for additional tips and free information.
Soccer Positions [http://www.soccerforkidsblog.com/uncategorized/soccer-positions-the-role-of-the-keeper/]
