Secrets to Soccer Training: Individual Skills, Tips and Tricks for a Soccer Defender
The defender, despite being rarely celebrated, plays a key role in soccer matches. With his primary role being to block and deflect any shots or passes made by the opposing team, he has to be a man who is well built, athletic, tough, aggressive, quick and smart. His capabilities shouldn’t be restrained within his physical abilities but should also his mindset. As such, he ought to be a man with high tactical and technical acumen and intelligence. Examples of the tips, tricks and secrets to soccer training include:
Being tough and versatile:
Whether playing as a center back, sweeper, stopper or outside defender, during a counter attack, the defender’s zone instantly becomes the highest traffic area. At such a time, a good defender should be capable of grasping the opportunity to tackle and challenge the opposing team so as to prevent them from scoring. But, just in case they score, he should never sulk or dwell on the defeat but instead take very little time to recover in order to prevent the same from happening.
Be composed and not in a rush to defend:
The position played by the defender is very likely to put one under a lot of pressure. If one wants to suffice, they should never over-commit or panic. Instead, one should be self-composed and contained. Being among the most important soccer defender skills, one’s composure and containment will convince the striker to make a shot rather than shield the ball from the defense. But, as soon as the striker touches the ball, the striker can rush for it. The only instance when you are allowed to dive in right away is when you are 100 % positive that you can win it.
Practice to become a barrier:
As one of the most vital secrets to soccer training, it’s wise to know that defense starts from the mind, and not from the body. Thus, since the defender’s main role is to obstruct the way to ensure that the opposing team doesn’t score, he should always keep his eyes on the ball and striker. This will demand that he be always on his toes in order to effectively block the path of the ball and the attackers.
Works with the rest of the team:
No matter how good a defender is, without the backing of his team, he’s nothing. This means that despite remaining within the allocated zone, he should be in proximity with the other defenders and midfielders. Being able to maintain this space makes it easier for the defender’s team to possess the ball hence preventing the other team from making a shot. In addition, he should learn to communicate with his teammates for they can direct him on the most effective possible move to take.
Pick out a defender to help you out:
The way to becoming a successful defender is by learning not just from your own mistakes and successes but also from those of others. It’s therefore important to pick a model defender whom you can study and learn from in regards to the soccer defender skills that make them stand out. Learning from them is bound to play a key role towards your growth as a defender.
Other additional soccer defender skills that you could apply include:
Always keeping an eye on the ball. Watch out for your emotions & stay positive. Always staying on your toes Practicing for speed. As you train, practice to run faster and for longer. Most of all, be patient and work with your teammates.
Secrets to Soccer Training: Individual Skills, Tips and Tricks for a Soccer Defender
written by: Mariyah88