Developing Core Ball-Related Skills: 8 & 9 Year-Olds
- NHU
- May 21, 2024
- 2 min read
Soccer is a sport that builds not only physical fitness but also important life skills such as teamwork, discipline, and perseverance. For young players, mastering core ball-related skills is essential for their development in the game. This guide provides an overview of key skills for 8- and 9-year-olds, along with practical measures to track their progress.
Core Ball-Related Skills
Dribbling
Skill Description: Dribbling involves controlling the ball while moving, allowing the player to navigate through defenders and advance up the field.
Measure: Time taken to complete a dribbling course with cones.
Target: Aim for smooth control, minimal cone touches, and improving speed over time. For example, a target could be completing the course in under 30 seconds with no more than one cone touch.
Passing
Skill Description: Passing accurately to teammates is crucial for maintaining possession and creating scoring opportunities.
Measure: Accuracy of passes over different distances.
Target: The number of successful passes to a target out of a set number of attempts (e.g., 8 out of 10 passes hitting the target from 10 yards away).
Receiving/Trapping
Skill Description: Effectively controlling and stopping the ball when receiving a pass.
Measure: Ability to control a pass without it bouncing away.
Target: The number of clean traps out of a set number of passes (e.g., 9 out of 10 passes controlled within two touches).
Shooting
Skill Description: Shooting requires accuracy and power to score goals.
Measure: Accuracy and power of shots at goal.
Target: The number of shots on target out of a set number of attempts (e.g., 7 out of 10 shots hitting the target from 12 yards).
Ball Juggling
Skill Description: Juggling helps develop touch and control, using various parts of the body to keep the ball in the air.
Measure: The number of consecutive juggles without the ball touching the ground.
Target: Increasing the number of juggles over time (e.g., achieving 20 consecutive juggles).
Turning with the Ball
Skill Description: Turning involves changing direction while maintaining control of the ball, essential for evading defenders.
Measure: Time taken to complete a turning drill while keeping control.
Target: Completing the drill quickly and with control (e.g., a 180-degree turn in under 5 seconds).
Shielding
Skill Description: Shielding protects the ball from opponents using the body.
Measure: Effectiveness in keeping the ball away from an opponent.
Target: The time successfully shielding the ball in a timed drill (e.g., 30 seconds without losing possession).
Encouragement and Support
Parents play a vital role in their child’s development. Here are ways to support your young soccer player:
Create a Positive Environment: Encourage effort and celebrate progress, no matter how small.
Practice Regularly: Set aside time for regular practice, and incorporate fun activities to maintain interest.
Provide Feedback: Offer constructive feedback and praise to help build confidence.
Attend Games and Practices: Show support by being present at games and practices, which boosts motivation.
By focusing on these core ball-related skills and using the provided measures, parents can ensure their child is on the right track in their soccer journey. With encouragement and consistent practice, young players can develop their abilities and enjoy the sport to its fullest.
North Hills United Soccer Academy
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