Soccer clinics allow players from diverse backgrounds to come together to practice skill sets and techniques with an experienced professional. Some clinics may focus on a specific type of game play or skill set, while others aim to provide additional feedback on the fundamentals from a well-respected trainer. Clinicians may use small-sided games, drills and one-on-one play to practice these skills.
Dribbling
Dribbling is the primary way in which a player can travel with the ball. Alan Hargreaves, author of "Skill and Strategies for Coaching Soccer," notes that "skillful dribbling is a mixture of flair, composure, timing and practice; dribbling is really an art form." Clinicians may demonstrate a variety of footwork skills to players and have them practice them in a field either using set cones that mimic defenders or using live players. Additionally, repetitive skills such as ball taps, in which players move the ball between different parts of both feet, are useful for less advanced players.
Passing
Passing is the quickest way to move a ball between players in order to create scoring opportunities. At the most elementary level, clinicians will demonstrate how to pass between two players between short distances using the instep of the foot. Clinicians may use two stationary targets and ask players to pass a ball between them as a way to emphasize accuracy. Intermediate players may integrate their passing skills with team play using drills that encourage the exploitation of open field space using a series of give and go's between players.
Trapping
Soccer players must learn to be able to receive the ball from other players or intercept the ball during game play. Trapping refers to the method of collecting and getting the ball under control using different body parts, including the head, chest, thigh and foot. Clinicians regularly use drills that involve volleying a ball between two players using different parts of the body to trap the ball before returning it to the other player. Being able to quickly gain control of the ball is an important skill.
Shooting
Shooting is notably one of the most exciting parts of a soccer game, as shooting a goal on net to score points is the basis of soccer. Clinicians may practice elementary through advanced techniques on how to strike a ball powerfully and effectively. At the elementary level, players learn to use the instep, or laces, of the foot to strike the ball. At a more advanced level, players learn to strike the ball with additional areas of the foot to create curve, height and power behind the shot. One drill suggested by the National Soccer Coaches of America is to vary distances and angles of a stationary ball from the goal for the players to shoot. As players advance, teammates can feed live balls to the players to have them practicing shooting a moving target.
References
- "Skill and Strategies for Coaching Soccer"; Alan Hargreaves; 1990
- "Soccer Skills & Drills"; National Soccer Coaches of America; 2006
- Region 19 CYO: Novice Skills Matrix
Member Comments