If you are like me, you probably believe that young players enjoy the game most when they are scoring goals. During the practice sessions, have the players perform such Youth soccer drills that have the maximum scope for players to score goals.
These opportunities can be made available to them during small sided games, full field scrimmages, and shooting drills. As far as possible, continue varying the practice of carrying out small sided games and full field scrimmages in kids soccer drills.
Another option is to incorporate games that can do without a goalkeeper or where his movement can be limited to a given area. You can add more goals or widen the ones that are previously in use for the purpose of enhancing the chances of scoring more goals.
With time, as players become competent in shooting techniques and its tactical knowledge, the possibility of scoring more goals arises. Just like passing skills, shooting techniques should be introduced to players at the beginner stage. And then these can be practiced more seriously at any time during the later stages of player’s growth.
In youth soccer practice, one of the most effective ways to improve shooting skills is through using drills. In order to effectively score goals, shooting drills help in developing shooting skills of the players. Nonetheless, its better that a player’s shooting skills grow with time.
There can be different types of youth soccer drills that can be designed to improve shooting skills by using the following progressions;
1. Stationery player shooting a static ball.
2. Stationery ball shot by a moving player.
3. A static player shooting a moving ball.
4. A moving player being shot by a moving player.
Youth soccer coaching should involve teaching the players to kick the ball effectively while shooting. Majority of the players take the shots using the inside of their feet. This helps the players improve their shooting capabilities.
Where the situation is such that strength is required to hit the ball, teach the players to use the instep of their foot to strike the ball. Their toes should point downwards and the ankles must be locked.
The elevation of the shoot is affected by the placement of the non-kicking foot. Ask the players to put their non-kicking foot a little ahead of the ball. This will keep the shot low. Try to keep the players focused on striking the ball. Getting rid of all the distracting elements helps them focus better.
As their shooting technique improves, keep introducing the level of difficulty in the games. For example; when their shooting competence improves, serve balls at various levels and speed.
Now, you must bear in mind to include a lot of youth soccer drills pertaining to shooting in your sessions.
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ABOUT THE AUTHOR:
Andre Botelho is known online as “The Expert Youth Soccer Coach” and his free ebooks and reports have been downloaded more than 100,000 times. Learn how to skyrocket your players’ skills and make training fun in record time. Download your free ebook at: Youth Soccer Drills
