Lend me your ears even though you may differ with me on this. When it comes to soccer drills, it is important that kids are first trained on the basic skills of the game so that they can get a feel of the game. This soccer training should precede the training the kids on more complex components of soccer or the correct method of playing on field.
Since you are a soccer coach, the onus lies on you that the players start on a right note. So teach them all the essential soccer skills that form the basis of the game. Let’s discuss some basic skills in the game that are important for every player to understand.
Coaching the players to dribble and shoot the ball: Shooting and dribbling are the two most basic soccer skills to master. In order to be successful in the game, these skills play a defining role. Nonetheless, training these soccer exercises must be arranged for in advance.
Beginning from one end of the field, arrange all players in a straight line with a majority of players placed all over the soccer field.
After that indicate the players to kick off. Running around the field, they would try to grab the ball by their feet as they dribble and shoot the ball in the goal located at the opposite end of the field. Regular practice of these two soccer drills will allow them to master these early in their career.
Passing the ball and following directions: Players learn the importance of team spirit as a result of these two soccer skills. Soccer after all, is a team sport that should be shared equally between all teammates. It’ll be impossible for them to display team spirit if they don’t learn good quality passing skills or don’t understand simple directions.
You can use a simple exercise to make the players learn the passing skills and understand your directions. To begin with, line up the entire team in one row at the either end of the field. At a distance of about 5-10 feet, any one player in the team should stand in front of that line.
As you blow the whistle, first person in row will try to catch hold of the ball form other team members on the field. When you tell them to stop, the player having the ball should pass it to the first individual in line. This is a soccer practice that has the potential to teach the players the ability to listen and follow directions.
Handling the Ball: Being the coach, decide and take time to teach players how to handle the ball using other parts of their body besides their feet. This has the effect of enabling the players to give a more spontaneous performance on field. Do this by making the player’s practice bouncing the ball with their heads and knees, or stopping the ball with their backs.
This is the easiest way to teach basic soccer drills that can produce great players who can then move on to actual game skills and more complicated routine. Find yourself abundant soccer specific information in form of articles, newsletters, tips, and guides at our youth soccer coaching community. So join now!
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: Soccer drills.
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