Passing Drills

Drill 1: Pass and Move Drill
Description: There are three lines of players behind three cones, arranged in a triangle. The player in the front of each line passes the ball over to the next. As he completes his pass, he moves over to the back of the line that is opposite to the direction of his pass.

Explanation: This drill incorporates many fundamental aspects of passing. First of all, all passes are made in a triangle, which is the basis of all ball movement. Secondly, the players are forced to move right after releasing the ball. This enforces the dynamic concept "pass and move." Task: keep the ball moving from cone to cone; after a pass from Line 1 to Line 2, the player passing must go to back of the opposite Line 3 and so on

Purpose: technique, rhythm

Complexity: simple



Drill 2: Combination Passing
Description: Three evenly spaced players advance the ball forward through combinations of dribbling and passing. There are many variations of this soccer drill. As shown in this particular diagram, the ball is always dribbled to the middle and passed to the outside. An important fact to notice is that when running past a player dribbling with the ball (Steps 3 to 5) you must always run behind him (Step 5 occurs after 4.)

Explanation: Combination plays are great for young players because they teach many fundamental principles of attacking. Preserving width, for example, is important because it challenges and pulls out the enemy defense.

Task: to advance with the ball while preserving width

Purpose: maintaining attacking shape, passing to space

Complexity: simple to medium



Drill 3: Keep away
Description: Two teams of players try to maintain possession of the ball in a confined area.

Explanation: This drill is used to develop passing in a dynamic game-like atmosphere. Demand that the players get spread out in attack and compress around the ball when defending. Restrictions could be implemented for increasing the difficulty. For example, prohibit the players from making back passes (where the ball cannot be played back to the player who passed it.) Imposing a limit on the consecutive touches per player is also a good way of increasing the challenge.

Task: keep possession of the ball and complete a X number of consecutive passes

Purpose: vision, onball & offball movement

Complexity: medium

Legend


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Setting up your soccer practice

A well-prepared football or soccer practice is conducted with a progressively perplexing flow. Rather than mixing soccer drills at random, a training session must be targeted towards a specific part of the game like finishing or passing. The best way to conduct a soccer practice is by starting with simple technical exercises and building up to group tactical situations. The latter much closer resemble the real game of soccer, thus providing a bridge or a translation from practice to match performance.

The following are proven drills specialized in the different aspects of the game. It must be noted that when coaching very young kids (younger than 12) it is best to have a soccer practice based on technical development, rather than concentrating on one particular aspect like passing or shooting. Therefore, if you are coaching young kids, consider the youth soccer drills section.

Drill 1: Simple Shooting Drill

Description: This is a good drill to start off a shooting practice. The "finisher" passes the ball over to a distributor who sets it up for a finish. The ball must be struck outside of the penalty box.

Explanation: In the beginning of the drill, the player taking the shot must be required to control the ball before finishing. When the players get comfortable enough, make it a requirement to finish with a single touch. This provides a smooth progression from technical execution to performance demands.

Task: finish from outside the box

Purpose: technique, composure

Complexity: simple




Drill 2: Counter 3v2 with a Wing
Description: The attackers begin in line, at three different points: on the wing, 20 yards inward and in the middle of the pitch. Two enemy fullbacks are initially located at the edge and corner of the penalty box. The ball starts from the player in the center. He gives it to the left enemy defender who immediately lays it to the outside attacker. From that point, the fullbacks begin attempt to clear the ball to the opposite half of the pitch. The attackers are required to score using not more than three consecutive touches per single player. Task: for the attackers - finish using less than three touches per player; for the defenders - to clear the ball

Purpose: composure, direct attacks

Complexity: medium


Explanation: The initial pass between attackers and fullbacks is important from a psychological point of view. This interaction promotes a composed type of play rather than kick and rush football. Having a winger out wide stimulates a more complex tactical movement such as plays involving crossing.

Drill 3: Standard 5v4 Attack
Description: The keeper boots the ball at a "pack" of attackers gathered close to each other. The attackers are allowed to break up immediately after the punted ball lands. Simultaneously, four defenders (starting by twos at the corner flags) enter the pitch trying to gain possession and complete 7-10 passes. Inversely, the attackers are required to score before making 7-10 passes.

Explanation: This drill provides a good introduction to the overall concepts of defense and offense. The attackers are required to spread out whereas the defenders must maintain a compact shape. Task: for the attackers - finish before executing 7-10 passes; for the defenders - gain possession and make 7-10 passes

Purpose: direct attacks, group play

Complexity: complex



Legend

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How to strike the ball

There are two general types of kicks based on the position of the ball, ground kicks and volleys.

Ground kicks
In order to produce a quality kick you'll need balance and composure. The placement of your supporting foot is just as important as your other, kicking foot. To control the height of your shot or pass, be aware of where your supporting foot is, in relation to the ball. By placing your supporting foot in line with the ball, you will achieve power while keeping your kick low. By placing it slightly behind, you will produce a rising or lofted ball. Your upper body also plays a role when kicking the ball. When you lean back, the ball will rise and if you lean forward your kick remain low and hard.
In order to get the maximum power from a strike, the knee of your kicking leg has to be above or in line with the ball at the exact moment you make contact. Follow-through in a sweeping motion in direction of your target. If you have trouble understanding this concept, try landing on your kicking foot after you strike the ball.

Volleys
When striking the ball in the air, proper balance is essential. Therefore, you need to adapt to the path of the ball by making quick adjustments in your footing. You are ready to swing only after you have positioned yourself at a proper distance from the ball. You should not attempt a volley, if you feel that you are reaching out too far or when the ball is too close to your body for a good swing.
Some situations may require jumping and volleying at the same time. Stay composed and concentrate on timing your leap.

How to practice kicking
The best way to practice your technique is against a keeper (or a friend) who consistently serves the ball back to you. If that is rarely an option, then any regular wall, ledge or flat surface can work as a replacement. Beginners should work on kicking dead balls (meaning they must trap it before kicking) while advanced players can practice striking the ball without settling it first. Many variations and drills available, such as aiming at a target on the wall or dribbling (in random directions) before you kick. Being able to strike the ball from any situation will improve all aspects of your game which include kicking, for example passing, finishing, clearing and so on. In order to learn the proper mechanics, practice with as few interruptions as possible. Also, look at better or more experienced players and study their technique.
A friend can be very useful when you're working on your volleys. Ask him to throw the ball at your feet and try to hit it back to his hands. Practicing volleys is slightly more of a hassle when you're alone, but it can be done. Simply toss the ball (or kick it) upwards and strike as it drops down. Stay composed and adjust to it its path. Don't swing desperately if the ball is out of your reach.

Different methods of striking the ball

Inside of the foot (push pass) Put your supporting foot about 10 cm to the side of the ball with your toes pointed in direction of your target. With your ankle locked at about 90 degrees, bring your kicking leg back and swing through the equator of the ball. Your kicking ankle must be perpendicular to your supporting foot. Contact the ball with the arch of your foot and follow-through in the direction of your target. When well executed, the ball will roll smoothly rather than bounce or skip along the ground.
Outside of the foot When planting your supporting foot next to the ball, your toes have to be directed about 15-30 degrees outward from your target. This will let you drive your other foot straight at the target, hitting the ball with the outside of your laces.
Instep drive Place your supporting foot in line with the ball and toes aimed at your target. Bring your kicking foot back and swing it forward in one swift motion. Don't pause between retracting and extending your leg. Accelerate your foot through the ball, as if it doesn't exist. The toes and the ankle of your kicking foot should be stretched and locked. To keep the shot low, meet the ball at the equator or slighly above it. Lean forward and keep your shoulders over the ball. Strike it with the inside of your shoelaces and follow through in the direction of your target.
Inside curve Position your supporting foot to the side of the ball with toes aimed at your target or slightly to the side of it. Swing forward with your kicking foot and meet the ball with the upper part of your big toe. "Slice" the ball not in the center but low on the outside, so that a spin will be produced. Follow through in the direction of your swing, not directly towards your target.
Outside curve If you're kicking the ball with your right foot put your supporting foot on the left side of the ball or vice versa. The toes of your supporting foot should be aimed at your target or slightly to the side, in the direction of the curve. Bring your kicking foot back and swing forward aiming for the inside part of the ball. Again, if you're kicking with your left foot, aim for the right side of the ball. Contact the ball with the outside, lower part of your shoelaces. Remember to follow-through.
Chip Your supporting foot should be planted next to the ball with toes pointed at your target. Quickly thrust your kicking foot back and then forward without moving your thigh too much. Sharply cut the ball from the bottom with the the tip of your toes. This will produce a lofted ball, spinning vertically towards you.
Volley The volley is a kick used when the ball is above ground. In terms of technique, it follows the same principles as the instep drive. Producing a good volley is largely determined by your timing. Concentrate on when to swing rather than where to contact the ball. Don't try to hit the ball really hard. If you strike it at the right time, it will have enough power and you'll get more control over its direction. Make small adjustments in your footing so that you are well balanced prior to actually swinging at it.

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Maradona Ball Tricks

Revolution (aka ATW or Around the World)

Difficulty: 2-3 weeks

Description: Maradona has the ball caught between with his instep and shin. He tosses it up and catches it again after making a full revolution with his foot around it.

Secret: This move consists of three different parts. The first is the toss, the second is the revolution and the third is the catch. Notice that Diego combines of the toss and the revolution in one single motion: while releasing the ball, he simultaneously begins going around it.

Mistakes: Tossing the ball higher won't give you more time. It will make it harder for you to go around it.

Olympico (Inswinger)

Difficulty: Varies

Description: Maradona curves the ball in from a corner kick taken just a few meters away from the goal post. The ball lands in the net.

Secret: If you strike the ball on its outside, rather than through the middle, it will spin. By making a sharp clip on the outside of the ball Maradona alters its flight so that it follows a bent path.

Mistakes: The hardest part of making this trick work is directing the ball. You have to aim your shot slightly to the side. By visualizing the ball's path, you can make small adjustments and direct it accordingly.

Quick Lift

Difficulty: 1 week

Description: Diego has the ball next to his right foot. He has his left foot raised and clips the ball with his heel towards his planted right foot. The ball is quickly lifted off the ground.

Secret: Maradona's original supporting foot does not remain completely stationary. Just as he hits the ball with his left, he plants it and raises the right. This motion lifts the ball.

Mistakes: Changing your supporting foot while dealing with the ball requires good timing. If you don't master this, you'll never be able do this trick.

From the front:

From the back:

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Ball Control

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

Receiving
Receiving is useful When running into space. Try to make contact with the middle or top part of the ball. Tap it lightly in the direction that you want to go. Good footballers can settle the ball into open space, even when under pressure. This often provides an extra step over the defender.

Trapping
Trapping is typically used when the ball is going too fast to redirect with your first touch. The most important part here is staying loose and on your toes. You can't adjust to the ball when you're stiff or flat-footed. Try keeping your hips open, facing the direction from where the ball is coming. Put you foot in the path of the ball and cushion it. To cushion the ball, gently withdraw your foot just before the time of contact.

How to practice control
The easiest way to practice control is with a partner. Your partner throws you the ball with his hands. After settling it with a single, clean touch you pass it back to him.
If you lack a partner, you can use a wall. Simply stand at about 3-5 meters (10-15 feet) away from the wall and knock the ball against it. You then trap or receive the ball as it comes back to you. This exercise gives you the chance to work on both your kicking and control. As you get comfortable, start applying both feet. Eventually, try lofting the ball and incorporate speed by running to meet the oncoming ball.

Different methods of control

Inside of the foot Your supporting foot must be planted 45-90 degrees in relation to the path of the ball. Don't plant it flat, instead keep your your weight on your toes. You should intercept the ball with the arch of your free foot. At the time of contact, cushion the ball by moving your foot along the ball's original path. Instead of trapping the ball you may wish to redirect it. To do so, simply turn your receiving foot in the desired direction.
Outside of the foot This technique is useful when the ball is coming in from the side. Rather than turning your body into its path, you can control it using the outside of the foot. Simply reach forward into the ball's path and intercept it with the outside of your instep. That should settle it nicely considering that the outside of your foot provides a lot of contact surface.
Sole of the foot Simply put your foot on the ball with your toes raised slightly above your heel. Because of the modern game's speed, trapping with the sole of the foot is rarely applied to control passes. It can be useful in dribbling. Some players use it to stop right before changing direction or incorporate it in more elaborate combos.
Instep This technique is useful when the ball is falling from a steep angle. Don't just wait for the ball to arrive, stay on your toes and lock your eyes on it. Quickly adjust to its trajectory so that you don't have to reach out too far. Before the ball arrives, stretch the ankle of your controlling foot. Try to cushion the ball using the area around your shoelaces. At the moment of contact, withdraw your controlling foot by bending the knee and ankle. This should settle the ball right in front of you.
Thigh The thigh is especially useful in football when you want to trap the ball. Redirecting it into space is somewhat harder when you're using the thigh. Cushioning the ball with the thigh can be done for both rising and dropping balls. Make sure you position yourself properly, before you try to trap the ball. Once you have aligned yourself well, put your thigh in the path of the ball and angle it so that it's redirected downward. If you don't retract, the ball will just bounce off of you. The contact surface you should use is the area above the knee, about halfway on your thigh. The inside of your thigh is good for stopping balls that are flying straight at you.
Chest The chest provides the largest surface area for trapping or receiving the ball. When using it for control, stretch out your arms and flex your muscles. To cushion the ball, you'll need to arch your back slightly. You may also have to bend your knees or jump in order to align your chest with the height of the ball.
Head Set up your body just as if you're about to head the ball. Instead of heading it, simply intercept its path using the surface area on your forehead, just below the hairline. Just before making contact, turn your head in whatever direction you want the ball to go (receiving). If you just want to bring the ball to your feet (trapping) do not turn your head, instead bend your knees and lean forward with you upper body.

Related soccer questions

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source from : www.expertfootball.com