Mastering soccer passing is key to becoming a successful player, but myths and outdated thinking about techniques can hold your players back.
Let’s differentiate here, that ‘passing’ a ball includes the interaction with teammates and opposition; whereas, kicking a ball is done with a partner(s) or a wall, but without interaction with defenders. Kicking is the technique that contributes to the success of a passer.
Here we’ll cover the top 5 tips to help them perfect their soccer kicking techniques. These below insights will help them improve a players accuracy and power, and dispel common myths that might be hurting their passing game. For more in-depth soccer tips, visit epicsoccercoach.com.
What Are the Best Techniques for Soccer Passing?
1. Positioning of the Non-Kicking Foot: Contrary to popular belief, the non-kicking foot should be placed behind the ball, not beside it. This provides better stability (balance) and control over the kick, allowing for more accurate delivery to your teammate.
2. Keep an Open Body Posture: Another kicking technique myth involves leaning over the ball to keep a pass low. This is a myth passed on from generation to generation but it is not what the top players actually look like. Instead, focus on maintaining an open body posture with shoulders back and hips forward. This is a balanced and open posture. This posture allows for a greater pre-stretch of all of the muscles in the front of a player’s body, creating a more dynamic stretch-reflex for increased power and precision. Players should be able to balance on the planting foot as they swing the other leg forward for contact, and then put the foot down behind them without every putting that kicking foot on the ground.
3. Use the ‘V’ Foot Position: Many coaches suggest pointing the plant foot directly at the target and the kicking foot perpendicular to it, forming an “L” shape. However, this can be uncomfortable and restrict the swing of the leg. Instead, aim for a ‘V’ position, where both feet point slightly outward. This stance is more natural, promotes balance, and enables a smoother passing motion.
4. Focus on Contact Point: The contact point on the foot is crucial for a successful pass. Players should aim to strike the ball with the area just below the ankle, ensuring a large surface area for optimal control. Keeping the toe up (toe pointed to the sky) and ankled locked helps maintain stability and precision during the pass. This positioning ensures a larger striking surface and a more consistent pass. It also helps avoid the common mistake of striking with the toe, which leads to inaccurate passes.
5. Address the Myths About Flat Passes: While flat passes with no side-spin might seem ideal, it may not be the only pass required. A slight spin (or large spin) can actually improve control, accuracy and may open up more passing options in a game. Learn where to make contact with the ball to create the desired spin and improve the effectiveness of their passes. This control is essential for mastering the inside-of-the-foot passing technique.
How Can You Help Improve Your Players’ Passing Techniques?
Now that you know the top 5 secrets to mastering soccer kicking techniques, it’s time to share with the players and have them put this direction into practice. Incorporate these tips into their practices and focus on refining their passing skills on the field and in games. Only if you are introducing this as a reference or they need remedial work on their technique should you have them passing in two’s and outside the context of the game – but this may be necessary at certain stages of development for the team or the individual. Remember, clear references, consistency and game play are essential to becoming a proficient passer in soccer.
For more in-depth guidance on soccer techniques and training activities, visit epicsoccercoach.com. Our comprehensive resources are designed to help players of all levels elevate their game and reach their full potential. Stay tuned for more insights and coaching strategies.
