A BASIC INTRODUCTION

Very young players are reluctant to head the ball at first, they close their eyes and let it drop on the top of their heads. They should be taught to use the forehead and start with a soft ball, concentrating solely on the technique of heading. As they progress and get stronger you can then introduce a normal football whilst still concentrating on the technique.

Coaching practice 1

X throws the ball up himself and heads to X2 who repeats the process

Coaching points

1. Watch the ball
2. Keep eyes open
3. Head the ball on the forehead
4. Aim for the middle of the ballThis practice can be done on your own by heading the ball against the wall.

Coaching practice 2

X throws the ball to X2 who heads the ball back.
X2 then repeats the process

Coaching points

1. Watch the ball
2. Move into the line of the ball
3. Keep eyes open
4. Head the ball with the forehead
5. Aim for the middle of the ball