As an older adult I look at my young son with amazement and appreciation.  The best thing about asking a child what they what to be when they grow up is that you know that they believe they can be that person.  As parents we support that dream or idea.  As we get older we tend to complicate our outlook on life by “making the safe decision” or not “taking risks” because ...

On this blog I really like to focus on how to build the skills of our young players and build their love of the beautiful game.   Part of that appreciation is to take care in being safe on the field.  You probably think of shin guards and goalie gloves and maybe some athletic tape or a first aid kit.   Do not overlook the safety of what is on the field.  The soccer goals themselves. You ma...

If you watched the Women’s World Cup (and if you didn’t you missed a real treat) physical endurance is as important as ball handling skills.  The ability to create plays and have the stamina to execute them can mean the difference between a win and a loss.  This video uses a Nike training app to help you run a series of sprints with a built in recovery period.  You don’t have...

One of the most basic soccer drills with a partner is the direct shot on goal.  The simplest way to do this drill is to have one player post up at the top of the box, and lay off the ball to the right or left of the goal.  The shooter should target the right or left side of the goal away from the goalkeeper.  As your aim and skill improves be more aggressive in refining your aim to the upper a...

Here is a fun drill that two players can use to help improve their speed, accuracy and touch on a running volley in front of the goal.  Player A feeds the ball to Player B who then tosses the ball over player A’s head.  Player A then strikes the ball aiming for one of the two sides of the goal.  Rotate positions and refine you accuracy for the shot on goal. ...

Training with 2 vs 1 drills can bring out the best in your ability to control the ball.  The goal with this drill is to make 10 passes between two players.  This drill uses 1 defender.  The key is to stay wide, create space and limit your touches to one or two.  Work as a team! ...

The best moves are soccer skills that change the direction of the ball and throw defenders off balance allowing you a lane to push past them and create space to pass or shoot the ball on goal.  Check out this video from Nike that demonstrates how Aguero schools his opponents on the soccer field. How do you think this will allow you to excel on the field? ...