Soccer heading drills will become a more valuable and strategic weapon as the players advance in skill level. Due to the heightened awareness concerning head injuries and concussions, while heading a soccer ball, the US Soccer Organization has restricted the intentional use of the heading for players age 11 and under.
Soccer Heading Techniques
- Players knees should be slightly bent for balance.
- Use the forehead to contact the all (between the eyebrows and the hairline).
- Players should strike the ball, and not let the ball strike them.
- Players should tighten neck, stomach, and back muscles and slightly force the head towards the ball.
- Eyes must remain open even when striking the ball with the head.
- Proper timing is essential.
Soccer Heading Drills Requires
- The US Soccer Orginization recommends that only players 11 and older can head without restrictions.
- 10-year-old or younger player may not head the ball regardless of the age group in which the he or she participates.
