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Soccer: Defensive Header - On the move

What a fantastic tool. I 've found a few drills that are unfamiliar,...

Wes, Rugby Coach

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One player throws the ball to the other player's head.

The throw should be slightly in front of the heading player so that they need to meet the ball in the air.

The returning header should also be slightly long, meaning the catching player needs to back track slightly in order to catch the ball.

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Developing Heading Power, Confidence and Accuracy

In defence or up front, make sure all your players want to use their heads in their next game - to clear their lines and beat the keeper!

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Attacking heading:

One feeder throws the ball up for the other player to try and head, back between the feeder's legs.

The feeder needs to stand with their feet apart and react quickly to the return header.

The heading player should keep their feet moving, being ready at all times to head the ball back with power.

Technique video

Defensive Header - 3 Player Relay:

Defensive header relay.

3 players with one ball. Front player of the 2 players throws up the ball to the heading player, after the player throws the ball he has to try and close down the heading player.

The player heading the ball has to head the ball over the approaching player to the 3rd player waiting to catch the ball.

Technique video

Attacking header:

Both players start on their knees with one player feeding an accurate throw for the other player to attack.

It is best to begin practising this drill on knees and progress to the standing up position when players feel more confident.

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Attacking, jumping header:

A progression from the attacking header drill.

The jump adds extra power and purchase to the header and means the player can meet the ball in the air earlier that if they didn't jump.

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