As a soccer coach, you will have to focus on soccer ball skills, as it is one of the biggest areas of player development, for both individual players and the entire team.
Two things come into play here:
1. Where the player receiving the ball guards it in the first touch so that the opponents do not get it back
2. The player receiving the ball must maneuver the ball where he finds space to make way for the second touch and keeps moving at accelerated speed.
Now suppose your player’s first touch is not done properly, there is the possibility of the opponents retrieving the ball. You must advise the player, when faced with a situation like this, to focus on bringing the ball out from under his feet instead of shuffling with it on the spot. Their first touch must take the ball out and away.
- Ball Control Skills
Ball control skills are developed and perfected through regular training exercises designed for them. The players must learn proper posture so that they are alert to moving in whatever direction is necessary.
The most important part of ball control is to observe it steadily, so that the player can assess its momentum. Suggest to your players that rather than train their eyes on the ball continuously they must learn to look around to be aware of the activity around them.
After assessing the ball’s speed, the player must decide upon the appropriate technique to use. There are various types of ball control techniques, which can allow the player to pass the ball into space to enable further movement, or just have it stop at his feet. The player must decide on the part of his body surface to use and this would include his foot, stomach, head and chest.
What if your player has not assessed the path of the ball and could not pass? You should train him by letting him practice passing from a variety of distances and ball speed.
- Developing Mental Capabilities
Make sure you teach your players the value of self-confidence and single-minded focus. Confident players are better at their technique and more decisive. This comes through a lot of soccer training.
The players must perfect basic soccer ball skills before they move on to advanced skills. Teach your players the ability to receive the ball from any direction and velocity.
