Description

The skill that is used the most in soccer is ball control. Therefore, it must be trained in every session. It is recommended to be practiced at any time and place.

In this manual, coaching points and soccer sessions are aimed to improve the first touch of the ball.

One of the main factor in the game is a good first touch. All exercises are created to encourage players from an early age that the first touch is crucial, but also, the selection of which parts of the body they should be using to achieve that. Ball can be controlled with any part of the body.

When the player is having a good first touch, it gives him advantage in time and space to continue the action the way he wishes to. It helps player to be confident during the play when he is under pressure or in a tight situation.

When player doesn’t have good first touch it will aect the momentum of the game, slow down the action or result in lost possession for his team.

There are two types of controlling the ball – receiving and trapping the ball. Receiving means directing the ball into space, away from the body. Trapping is stopping the ball right at your feet.

Receiving is useful when player is running into space. Good players can control the ball into open space, even when they are under pressure. This provides an extra advantage over defender.

Trapping is used when the ball is going too fast to be directed with first touch. The most important part here is staying loose and on your toes.

Special focus is on player – how is he approaching the ball; angles and body positioning in his preparation before contact with the ball. Selecting the right part of the foot or body and action taken after he has the ball in possession.

Exercises are carefully prepared to reach all necessary details presented in description above.