No matter how good you may be, if you want to be a great soccer player it is important to keep practicing the fundamentals. Dribbling, shielding and passing are three basic skills that are the hallmarks of a great player. Try these easy soccer training tips to help improve your practice sessions and games.
Conditioning
Conditioning should not end just because the season has begun. In many areas, especially in high school play, there are several weeks dedicated to conditioning before training can officially begin. However, it is important to include endurance and strength training into regular soccer practices.
Communication
Communicating on the field is vital to playing as a team. Start practicing communication during training sessions. The phrase "Man on" is a common way to let the player with the ball know that someone is coming up behind them, while "You have time" keeps them from rushing. Talk to your team and work together.
Dribbling
Dribbling is the basic skill of soccer, and one that is often overlooked during training sessions in favor of flashier moves. However, the longer you can keep possession of the ball, the better your team will do. Practice dribbling around cones and making tight turns while keeping control of the ball.
Passing
Don't always try to be a hero. If you know how to pass the ball effectively, your team will have a better chance of winning the game. During training sessions, practice your passing accuracy. Pass the ball while moving down field and have a third player attempt to defend against the pass.
Shielding
During training, practice keeping your body between the ball and opposing players. Pair off the players and have them take turns guarding the ball and trying to steal it from each other.
