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How to Teach Young Soccer Players the Basics of Ball Control
Ball control is one of the most essential soccer skills, helping players keep possession, move smoothly, and pass with accuracy. For young players (U5-U19), learning proper ball control early builds confidence and lays the foundation for dribbling, passing, and shooting.
Why Ball Control is Important in Soccer
Good ball control allows players to:
- Keep possession under pressure.
- Dribble with confidence and creativity.
- Pass and shoot accurately with the right touch.
- React quickly to game situations.
Even the fastest, strongest players will struggle in real matches without proper ball control.
Step 1: Teaching First Touch (The Foundation of Ball Control)
A player’s first touch is their initial contact with the ball, determining whether they keep possession or lose it.
How to Teach First Touch
- Encourage players to stay calm and watch the ball before controlling it.
- Teach them to control the ball with the inside, outside, and sole of the foot.
- Players should keep their knees slightly bent and body-centered.
- A light touch keeps the ball close, avoiding unnecessary chases.
Drill: Kick & Catch
- Pass the ball softly to the player.
- They stop the ball with their foot and hold position.
- Repeat, increasing the speed as they improve.
This simple drill teaches control and positioning.
Step 2: Dribbling Drills for Better Ball Control
Dribbling helps players move with the ball while keeping it close. The key to dribbling control is small, controlled touches.
Cone Dribble
- Set up 5-10 cones in a straight line.
- Players dribble slowly, moving in and out.
- Focus on tight control and smooth turns.
- Use both feet to develop balance!
Step 3: Passing & Receiving for Ball Control
Passing isn’t just about kicking the ball—it’s about controlling the ball before making a decision.
Key Passing & Control Tips
- Body Position – Players should face the ball and be ready to move.
- Inside Foot Control – The best way to stop a pass is with the inside of the foot.
- Quick Decisions – Teach players to think one step ahead before passing.
Drill: Pass & Control Game
- Players work in pairs, passing the ball softly back and forth.
- Challenge them to control and pass in one motion.
- Increase speed and distance as they improve.
- Add a defender to simulate real-game pressure.
Step 4: Reaction-Based Ball Control Drills
Once players have mastered basic control, they need to react quickly under pressure.
Reaction Touch Drill
- The coach throws or kicks the ball in different directions.
- Players must react fast and control it properly.
- Encourages quick thinking and better first touch.
Conclusion
Ball control is the foundation of soccer skills. Young players will develop confidence and precision on the ball by starting with the first touch, dribbling, passing, and reaction drills at CRFC Youth soccer summer camps.
FAQs
Why is ball control important in soccer?
Ball control helps players keep possession, dribble smoothly, pass accurately, and react quickly in a game.
What are the best drills to improve ball control?
Drills like the Kick & Catch, Cone Dribble, and Pass & Control Game help players develop first touch, dribbling, and passing skills.
How can young players improve their first touch?
Players should watch the ball, stay balanced, and use the inside, outside, or sole of their foot to gently control it.
How do reaction drills help with ball control?
Reaction drills teach players to think fast and control the ball under pressure, improving their ability to handle real-game situations.
How often should youth soccer players practice ball control?
Players should practice ball control drills at least 3 times a week to develop confidence and precision with the ball.
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