Bent Runs, Bent Balls

From the October 25, 2006, issue of The Technical Area

This installment of the Coaching Corner comes from the new book Soccer Skills and Drills, published by Human Kinetics. It comes from Chapter 3: Passing. For information on how to order a copy of Soccer Skills and Drills, CLICK HERE.

Purpose: To train the service of bending balls.

Procedure: In groups of three or more (the smaller the group, the greater the fitness demands of the activity), players pass the ball in the pattern shown in the animation. The coach determines the type of balls played and the direction inwhich the pattern is executed. The complete series includes:

·  Balls on the ground bent into the path of the runner in both directions

·  Balls on the ground bent with the path of the runner in both directions

·  Balls flighted in the air bent into the path of the runner in both directions

·  Balls flighted in the air bent with the path of the runner in both directions

The run of the player to whom the ball is served must be bent and wide, creating a passing channel for the passer.

Coaching Points: Bent Runs, Bent Balls passing is a fundamental repetition activity, but the repetition involves an advanced technique that's best suited to experienced players.

For drill animation, CLICK HERE.