Soccer Basics

Good soccer players make the game look easy.

The following slides describe some of the fundamental skills of the game.

Dribbling

Learning to move comfortably with the ball is crucial in soccer

Key Concepts:

Foot Position-keep the foot forward and use

the top of the foot for control

Ball Position-the ball should be about a yard

or so in front of the player

Turning/Changing Direction-needs to be done

quickly and efficiently

stopping the ball by putting one foot on top

Playing with Both Feet-players need to be

comfortable using both feet to play

Passing and Receiving

Passing involves 3 main principles: direction, pace and proper technique

Also being able to read and assess other players

Receiving involves 2 main principles: capturing the ball and quickly gaining control

Ball Control and Shooting

Ball control is often called touch or juggling

Should be worked on from the start

Allows players to get their heads up and make decisions

Shooting is popular but difficult to master

Young players should work on striking the ball with the instep, toe pointed and ankle locked

Heading

Soccer is the only sport where the head can be used

Players should meet the ball forcefully and not wait for it to hit them

Players should use the forehead and keep eyes open and mouth closed

Power of heading should come from the body not the legs

Goal Keeping

Goal keeping is preventing the ball from entering the goal

Players wear gloves

Goalies can use their hands

Goalies can slap the ball away, fall to block it and then drop kick it back into play

Conclusion

Soccer is a great game for kids to learn

Make sure you are being positive

Players should be having fun

Players should be learning and growing