Part of being a great soccer player is developing your skill set. It helps to have a variety of skills to be able to use during the game. The more you know, the better you will be. So here are some useful tips to help you become a better soccer player.
Do not hesitate to ask for the ball if you feel like you are in a good position. Some players tend to focus entirely on what is directly in front of them and forget to keep tack of where their team mates are. Draw their attention by waving your arms or asking for the ball.
In order to become a good soccer player, you need to learn how to dribble. To properly dribble, keep your head down so you can see what you are doing, but still keep an eye on your opponent. Also, keep the ball near your feet at all times. Do this by using the outside and inside of your foot to carry the ball.
It is against the rules to use any part of your hands or arms, from shoulder to fingertips, to control a soccer ball that is in play. You can use your feet, knees, thighs, stomach, chest and head. Be careful though. A head shot can hurt and you cannot control the ball well with your knees.
When playing soccer, move the ball more than your body. This can help you save energy. If you’re running down the field frequently, you’ll be tired early into the game. Keep in mind that the ball always moves faster than you do. It’s better move it faster than moving yourself with it. Save your energy for when you need to run.
When kicking a long kick to a teammate, approach the ball at a 35 degree angle. This allows you to fully use your kicking leg at full force. Use your arms to help you keep your balance while placing your non kicking foot directly beside the ball. Keep the ball close to the ground for best results.
Learn to dribble effectively. To keep the ball in control at all times, keep the ball close to you and gently tap the ball using the inside and outside of your feet. Keep your eyes on the ball for best results and protect the ball by using your body to keep opponents away.
When making a shot remember that wider is better than higher. Wide shots cause the goalie to really stretch. If you can manage to shoot a wide shot that is close to the ground, you will most likely score because the goalie will need to stretch and will not have good control over his body.
When it comes to goal keeping, equipment is important. One of the most important pieces of equipment for a goalie is their gloves. These gloves not only help them catch the ball, but it also protects their wrists and fingers from injury. The gloves should be made of a heavy grade latex for best gripping and protection.
Never act selfish on the soccer field. If you are very far away from the goal, it may be a good idea for you to pass the ball to someone that is closer. It may seem like an easy shot, but it may be a bit easier for a teammate to make the shot.
Learn how to receive a fast moving ball by developing soft receive footwork. This type of footwork cushions the blow when a ball is passed hard to you. By softening the blow, you can regain control of the ball quickly. If, however, you receive the ball with a stiff foot, the ball will generally be knocked further away from you.
Always warm up your muscles and stretch before a game. This helps prevent injury and keeps you fresh and agile. One of the most common injuries is a hamstring strain. The hamstring is located right above the knee on the back of your leg. You would be surprised at how easy an injury can occur if you don’t stretch your muscles prior to a game.
Always understand that you must be one step ahead of the game. For example, say you’re setting yourself up to receive the ball. What are you planning on doing with the ball? It’s going to have much to do with the game developing. You have many options, including turning and shooting, shielding the ball, immediately passing and more.
If you are coaching children in soccer, remember that they need play time. Structure your sessions so that the kids play competitively for about fifteen minutes and then have unstructured play for about half an hour. In this way, your players will not become frustrated, cranky and bored. They will learn more when they have fun.
Now that you have just learned some new skills, take the time to practice them. Practicing is vital to being a better player. Share these tips with your teammates and practice them together. With a lot of practice and a little luck, you may just be on the way to a winning season.