Nike Soccer Article

Soccer Tips: Drills

If you have ever played or watched soccer, you know that you have to play aggressively in order to get the ball. It is not a sport that is meant for the shy. There are a variety of drills you can do to practice that will make you a better player and sportsman.

A great drill to practice playing soccer with is called ‘Get Control.’ The coach will need to divide the players into two teams. Then balls are thrown up and out into the air, players are responding for gaining control of the ball without using your hands or arms. The player is then responsible for putting the ball into play by passing it or attempting to score a goal.

If a player is unable to put the ball into play then he will suffer some consequences such as a lap around the field or push ups. Every player should have a chance to get the ball and put it into play.

Another great drill is ball protection. For this drill, partners are assigned. You work with your partner to dribble the ball back and forth and to practice moving with the ball. Then give your partner feedback as well as advice on how they can improve by either moving faster or volleying the ball at a quicker pace.

Another fun drill is close and protect. Once again, you will practice with a partner and you need to essentially, get control of the ball and keep it. This is not meant to be a drill for bullys but you do need to play aggressively to maintain control of the ball.

Or, another variance on this drill is to have one player attempt to gain control of the ball from the other player by maneuvering his body safely, and obtaining the ball legally. This is a true test in patience and ease of movement.

Another drill that is a true test of skill is the ‘push and steal’ drill. This drill needs close supervision to assure that players are playing fairly. The coach and assistant coach will each a ball and the players line up and attempt to retrieve the ball fairly. The coach may move and dribble the ball down the field and the players line up one at a time and move with the coach and the ball and attempt to get it.

Keep in mind that these drills are meant to teach players to move and play fairly with the ball. At times, the drill may get out of hand and the coach will need to intervene to assure that no one gets hurt or that the game gets out of hand. Soccer is a game of skill and aggression.