6 Steps in Mastering the Art of Trapping Low-flighted Balls

Mastering the art of trapping low-flighted balls is an essential skill for soccer players, allowing them to control and maintain possession in challenging situations. When coaching players on how to effectively trap low-balls, it's crucial to focus on specific coaching points to ensure proper technique and successful execution. We will highlight key coaching points coaches can emphasize when teaching soccer players to trap low balls.

1. Body Positioning

The correct body positioning is vital when trapping low balls. Teach players to position themselves with their body slightly open to the approaching ball. This stance allows them to have a clear view of the ball and better control its trajectory. Emphasize the importance of maintaining a low center of gravity by slightly bending the knees and keeping the upper body balanced. This stable and balanced body position will enable players to react quickly and efficiently when trapping low balls.

2. Foot Placement

Proper foot placement is crucial for successful trapping. Instruct players to position their trapping foot slightly ahead of the ball, with the toes pointing upward. This positioning provides a larger surface area to cushion the impact of the ball and control its direction. Encourage players to keep their foot relaxed and soft upon contact with the ball, as a tense foot may cause the ball to bounce away or lose control. Reinforce the need for players to avoid lifting their foot upon contact, ensuring the ball is trapped smoothly and securely.

3. Timing and Anticipation

Timing and anticipation play a vital role in trapping low balls. Teach players to read the flight and trajectory of the ball to anticipate its arrival accurately. Emphasize the importance of reading the play to be proactive rather than reactive when trapping low-balls. Encourage players to adjust their body position and be ready to trap the ball before it reaches them. This anticipation allows players to react quickly, gain better control, and reduce the risk of losing possession.

4. Soft Touch and Absorption

A soft touch is essential when trapping low balls to absorb the energy and control the ball's pace. Teach players to cushion the impact by allowing the ball to contact the inside, sole, or instep of their foot rather than using a forceful touch. Reinforce the importance of being gentle with the touch and focusing on absorbing the ball's energy to maintain control. Encourage players to relax their foot upon contact, allowing the ball to settle comfortably under their control.

5. Directional Control

Trapping low balls effectively involves directing the ball to desired areas of the field. Encourage players to visualize where they want the ball after trapping it. Teach them to angle their foot and apply slight pressure to redirect the ball in the intended direction. This directional control ensures that players can quickly transition from trapping to passing or dribbling, maintaining possession, or initiating an attack.

6. Repetition and Practice

Repetition and practice are essential when mastering the skill of trapping low balls. Provide players ample opportunities to practice trapping low balls from different angles and speeds. Conduct drills that simulate game scenarios, incorporating low crosses, ground passes, or long balls to challenge players' trapping abilities. Encourage players to practice on their own and dedicate time to honing their technique. The more repetitions they perform, the more comfortable and proficient they will become in trapping low balls.

In soccer, coaching players on how to trap low balls effectively requires focusing on specific coaching points to ensure proper technique and successful execution. By emphasizing body positioning, foot placement, timing, anticipation, soft touch, and directional control and providing ample repetition and practice opportunities, coaches can help players develop confidence and precision in trapping low balls. With consistent guidance and dedicated training, soccer players can elevate their skills, control possession, and make crucial contributions to their team's success on the field.