How to Coach Dribbling in Kids' Soccer

Learning to move comfortably with the ball is perhaps the game's most important skill. When dribbling, a player moves with the ball down the field and past opposing players while avoiding tackles. Changing direction and changing speed are key to beating other players.

Difficulty: Easy

Instructions

1. Take into account the four key aspects of dribbling - foot position, ball position, turning/changing direction, and playing both feet.

2. Focus on other dribbling skills, including keeping the head up, acquiring a sense of space and keeping the field covered.

3. Have players avoid keeping the ball right under their feet. Rather, tell them to keep the ball a yard or so in front of them - a distance that allows them to play the ball.

4. Try a game called Spaceman (see the following three steps).

5. Create a square on the field, about 30 yards by 30 yards.

6. Have your players dribble around this square. Tell them they are spacemen, and they need to fill up in the space in the square while they dribble.

7. Make sure your players are spaced evenly within the square. Players will then learn that when one of them moves out of a space, someone else must move into that space.

8. Ask your players questions during practice. This will help them keep their heads up and be aware of where other players are.

9. Assign dribbling in the "doggy bag" (homework) given to players after a practice session.

Tips & Warnings

• Check beginning players for a common mistake: dribbling with the inside of their feet. Remind players to use the tops of their feet (where the laces of their shoes are) to move the ball forward.
• Use the "drip feed" method. Don't try to teach every aspect of dribbling in one session.
• Soccer is a physically challenging sport that could result in serious injury. We recommend that you seek the proper equipment and training before undertaking this activity.

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