Soccer Dribbling Practice Question:

HI, I AM A SIXTH GRADER IN P.B. MIDDLE SCHOOL AND WANT TO KNOW ABOUT WHAT (DRIBBLING) MOVES ARE IMPORTANT.   PLEASE WRITE A.S.A.P.

THANK YOU, K.I.

FUNdamental Response:

Moving with the ball is an art. It is the art of maneuvering the ball with the feet in order to maintain ball possession against opponents. Much of the skill amounts to the ability to control the ball while running, stopping, and turning at various speeds. Deceptive body movements in combination with foot maneuvers are used to beat the opponent.

In simpler words, a player with the ball pretends that they are playing tag with the opponent. They use any/all similar moves that they would use when playing tag. However, they must take the ball with them!

The movements are all important and each individual must develop his/her confidence in one or two moves. What these moves are depends on the individual and their athletic abilities. Most professional players focus on (one) move and perfect ‘it’ before working on a second. The move is not as important as the following sequence:

• 1^st – MEET the OPPONENT — That is dribble straight at the opponent and force them to defend.

• 2^nd – GREET the OPPONENT — by forcing them back on their heels with a sudden move (fake/feint). This is an individual’s preference.

• 3^rd – BEAT the OPPONENT — by exploding past them.

But, now the work begins … You must first find the (one) move that you really like and would like to perfect. (See Illustration)

Starting Soccer Dribbling Practice

• Start practicing the move by closing your eyes and seeing yourself doing the move in your mind (visualize).
• Once you feel comfortable doing the move in your mind go get your ball and practice the move against an imaginary opponent.
• When ready, find a friend, who will allow you to practice the move against them.
• Finally, try the move in your next practice or game against a real opponent.

Important, if at first you don’t succeed then repeat this sequence – but, do not ever give up!

Final Notes

If your players have a question?  Please send it to me at: koachkarl@fundamentalsoccer.com

Your FUNdamental,

Koach Karl (Karl Dewazien)

• Emeritus Director of Coaching – California Youth Soccer Assoc. 1979-2012
• Author – Internationally Published FUNdamental SOCCER Books Series
• Producer – highly acclaimed ‘FUNdamental SOCCER -Practice’ DVD.
• Clinician at: www.fundamentalsoccer.com

Ordering Portable Soccer Goals for Practice

To start training like a pro, using proper soccer goals for practice is important. A good place to get your soccer goals from is Farpost Soccer Goals Ltd. Farpost Goals builds very high quality portable soccer goals that are used by clubs across North America. They are built for competitions and everyday training, making them a great asset for coaches. Visit Farpost’s online store to order yours.

If you have any questions or require any assistance in picking a soccer net for your coaching practice, please don’t hesitate to contact Farpost Goals.