“As you know, field time in New York City is tough to come by. What little things can I do with a soccer ball inside my room to help my game?” —Dina, 14, Stuyvesant Town
First of all, you should have two soccer balls, sizes 5 and 1. The size 1 ball is to carry with you at all times. Try to juggle this ball every time you have a chance. The size 1 ball is great to improve technique.
The following drills are great for coordination and ball control:
Tap on the ball with both feet using the sole of the foot.
Pass the ball from foot to foot using the inside part.
Bend your knee a little and try to keep the ball in front of you.Using the right foot only, push the ball forward softly, and pull it back using the sole of the foot. Also try with your left foot. When you feel comfortable with both feet, do a combination drill. (right and left)
Push the ball sideways with the outside of your right foot, then using the inside of the right foot pass the ball to the left foot. With your left foot do the same.
You can also always look for more drills online; do a Google search or watch a training video on www.dailymotion.com.
Good luck with this, and remember to practice every day because consistency breeds success.
Bio:
Gustavo Palomino is
director of coaching for Downtown United Soccer Club & Gotham Girls
FC. Gustavo began playing soccer in the streets of Lima, Peru at the
age of 5. At 18, he came to the USA and played for Long Island
University, NCAA Division I. For the last 10 years Gustavo has served
as Head Coach for many of the girl’s & boy’s travel teams.
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