Do you play for a school soccer team? Perhaps you just like to go out there on the field and mess around with your friends. Maybe you aspire to be the next great soccer player. No matter what, soccer is fun, and it takes skill in order to become a better player. Try out this advice on for size as you learn more about soccer.
To be the best soccer parent ever, you should have realistic expectations of your child. You should have a clear vision of your child’s abilities and always encourage him or her to simply play as well as possible. Don’t try to bribe your child into playing better with treats or push good playing ability with threat of punishment. Remember soccer is supposed to be fun.
Wherever you are on the field, try to maintain perspective in regards to the entire field. Knowing where your teammates are will help you pass the ball quickly and keep your opponents confused. It is not necessary to follow the ball too closely to stay in the game. You are more likely to get a pass when you are in a relatively open space on the field.
Try using the element of surprise on your opponents. Try not to make your moves so obvious. For example, try putting the ball near the back of the previous defending line while your teammate runs to receive your assistance. Then, try changing your running rhythm, starting quick until your opponent comes at you, then stopping. They’ll stop too, which gives you time to increase your pace again, so that they’re left anchored.
If you are a beginner and you don’t know much about soccer, the best way to learn a bit more is to watch some players in action. You should go to watch a local game, and if none are available you can watch a few games that air on television.
Soccer is a tough sport. Don’t worry about colliding with someone. Getting physical doesn’t mean you’re playing a dirty game. Intentionally kicking someone or slide tackling from behind is dirty, but standing your ground or leaning shoulder to shoulder is not. If is scares you to get physical, you need to conquer that fear. Always protect your legs by wearing soccer pads.
Always set goals for yourself when trying to improve your soccer skills. You should make sure you set both short-term and long-term goals. Of course, like any other goals, you want them to be achievable; however, you should also ensure they are difficult enough so that you push yourself. By having specific goals to work for, you are more likely to succeed in improving yourself.
Develop stronger leg muscles. By developing strong leg muscles, you will not only be able to shoot harder, but you will also be able to protect yourself from many of the common soccer injuries such as a torn hamstring or torn achilles. Doing both strengthening and flexibility exercises will help protect your legs.
When it comes to soccer, body movement is important. Tricking the defense can be as easy as leaning one way but moving another. Make good use of your arms since making arm movements really distracts people when they are trying to stop you from making shots or passes.
You should try your best to stay very light and bouncy on your feet when you are out on the soccer field. Even though it may seem to you like it makes more sense to be aggressive, this is the best way for you to keep total control over the ball.
Soccer video games are a great way to help you learn the game better. However, your game is more on the field than it is in your hands. Still, video games are quick and hands-on and can be enjoyed during your downtime. They are often highly realistic and are a great form of simulation and learning particular formations and strategies.
The slide tackle or slide challenge is something you do if you’re certain you’re going to win the battle for the ball. Otherwise, your concentration should be to remain on your feet. However, sometimes this slide tackle is a great option, especially if you’re defending against an opponent about to try and score.
Practice basic skills for at least 30 minutes per day. It is essential that the fundamental skills and movements are so ingrained into your mind and body that they are second nature. This means that during a game, you don’t have to think about them and you can focus on the needs of the moment and making that goal.
Use your peripheral vision. Peripheral vision can be trained and is an essential skill if you want to be able to keep track of the entire field while still watching the ball. Don’t just focus directly on the ball; instead, you should focus on looking at a point that’s between yourself and the ball in midair.
It is time for you to bring the advice you’ve read out onto the field. You also need to keep learning more about this great sport. There is no cap to the skills you can learn and use, so get out there and enjoy the game you love to play.
