TIPS

  • The closer you keep the ball to your feet, the more control you'll have.
  • Just because you see a defender approaching doesn't mean that you should immediately pass the ball. Wait until she actually commits to challenging you. Otherwise you'll make it easy for her to intercept your pass.
  • Know what your teammates can do. If the player with the ball can't kick it more than 20 feet, don't stand 40 feet away and call for the ball.
  • Practice makes perfect, so be sure to practice the different types of passing as much as you can.  If you can't find a friend to do it with you, a wall or a backstop makes a great partner.

Tip

When you are shielding the ball, remember that your arms are off-limits.  Not only can't you use them to touch the ball, but you also can't use them to keep your opponent back.  Use your body to block her from the ball.  Use your arms for balance, not to push your opponent away.

 

 

"A champion is someone who does not settle for that day's practice, that day's competition, that day's performance.  They are always striving to be better. They don't live in the past."

Briana Scurry (US WNT Goalkeeper)

Cool Soccer Tips...

What you can do in the off-season to get ready for the Spring Season..

 

1. Take time to learn more about the game.  On the "Links" page there are many links to soccer sites for surfing.  To learn the rules of the game, I recommend www.asktheref.com, it is a Q & A site, but explains the rules of the game.

 

2. Read the US Youth Soccer Players Guide. Download it here...

 

                                PLAYERS GUIDE

 

3. Watch some cool soccer drills from Skillz School on the US Youth Soccer website:

http://www.usyouthsoccer.org/players/SkillzSchoolVideos.asp

4. Conditioning/Training.

           A.  Jumproping: this is an easy exercise to help with conditioning and footwork.  You can do this outside on decent days or in the garage.

           B.  Jogging and running.

           C.  Juggling with the ball:  start a log and watch your improvements in number of juggles.  Try to beat each weeks "best".

           D.  If you can get outside and either by yourself or with someone, just throw the ball up in the air and practice trapping the ball, gaining control and doing a pass.

           E. Set up some markers and practice weaving in and out of the cones, first just running and weaving and then with the ball.

           F.  Practice sprinting and changing direction.

 

Here's a link to a strength program:

http://www.sport-fitness-advisor.com/soccer-weight-training-exercises.html

 

Taking time to learn more about the game and getting conditioned for the first practice will be key!

 

HOW TO KICK THE SOCCER BALL WITH MORE POWER

http://www.total-soccer-fitness.com/soccer_kicking_power.html