Soccer is a sport that allows players to create spectacular plays in the spur of the moment. Acrobatic moves are often the product of a scoring opportunity, such as a bicycle kick or a diving header. They can also come from an attempt to beat a defender. Acrobatic moves are often high risk, high reward plays. Players should pick the right situation to try and execute an acrobatic play.
Skill Development
Freestyle soccer is another way to describe acrobatic soccer. Acrobatic players should have a good feel for the ball. One way to develop this is by juggling. Have players work on juggling the ball with their feet, knees and head. With time and confidence, they can keep the ball in the air longer and develop their touch. From there, they can build their skills with subtle moves.
Athleticism
The execution of an acrobatic soccer move requires athleticism. A bicycle kick, in which a player swings his legs over his head in order to kick a ball, requires leaping ability and timing. A player needs quick feet in order to make an intricate dribbling move to beat a defender. Quickness on the ball can be developed in players through fast-paced dribbling drills.
Imagination
Once a player is fundamentally sound, he is freer to try things that aren’t usually practiced during a training session. One move can lead to another. For instance, a step-over, in which a player steps over the ball sideways with one foot and moves it in the opposite direction with the outside of the other foot, can be followed by the same kind of fake with the other foot, creating a double step-over.
Confidence
Coaches can build their players’ confidence by giving players new challenges in manageable sections. Don’t try to introduce a new skill to a player when you know it’s beyond her ability. If a coach wants to teach an acrobatic move such as a diving header, begin with the players on their knees. As they improve, the coach can slowly progress forward, teaching them to time the cross and how to land safely.
Freedom
Players need the encouragement of their coach to develop acrobatic moves. Players should be encouraged to try new movements. At the same time, they should learn when and where to put their imaginations into action. A defender shouldn’t try his new dribbling move in his own penalty box with only his goalie for support. Players need to realize the time and place for acrobatic moves.
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