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Defensive Heading Challenge

Improve defensive heading under pressure.

Heading15-16U1813-14group7 players minimumstarstarstarstarstar4.1 (34)
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Equipment, Setup & Instructions
Equipment
  • Cones (for 15x15 yard area)
  • Soccer balls
Setup
  1. Area: 15x15 yard area marked with cones
  2. Team Red: 4 red outfield players start spaced evenly within the grid as defenders
  3. Team Blue: 2 blue outfield players start inside the grid as attackers
  4. Coach: 1 grey coach/server positioned outside the area with balls, ready to deliver aerial balls into the grid
  5. Equipment: Cones marking the corners of the 15x15 yard area, soccer balls with the coach
Instructions
  1. The server delivers an aerial ball into the grid.
  2. Defenders aim to win the header and clear the ball effectively.
  3. Attackers attempt to pressure defenders and win the ball.
  4. Rotate positions regularly to involve all players.
Coaching Points
  • Arch back and punch through the ball with neck.
  • Maintain clear communication.
  • Keep eyes on the ball; head using the forehead.
  • Ensure good body shape when attacking the ball.
  • Stay light on feet; eyes should remain open.
  • Focus on heading the bottom half of the ball.
  • Aim to clear the ball high, wide, and long.
  • Use both one-footed and two-footed jumps as needed.
  • Build confidence through proper heading technique.
  • Utilize arms and neck for force generation.
Variations
Make it harder:
1. Reduce the area to 12x12 yards for increased pressure.
2. Add an additional attacker to increase contest.
3. Limit defenders to fewer touches.
Make it easier:
1. Increase the area to 18x18 yards for more space.
2. Use fewer attackers to reduce pressure.
3. Allow defenders a practice round with passive attackers.
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