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Improve defensive heading with this great game – fun for everyone even the coach!
The Rules
One team of three starts in each half of the grid. Unlike head tennis, the object of the game is to head the ball out of the grid over the end line.
The team moves the ball using the sequence throw, head, catch until an opportunity arises to head the ball high over the end line working on the principals of height and distance.
The opposite team can stop the ball any way they want including with their hands, so even goalkeepers get to practise here too.
Teams score a point for each header that clears the end line.
Play first to 5 or 10 and, if using more than one grid, play a round robin to see who the champions are.
Main Objectives
Improve defensive heading.
Set Up
Area: 20x30 yard grids with a marked halfway line
Players: Ideally 3v3 but 2v2 and 3v2 also work
Equipment: Lots of cones, balls
Related Files
their opponent’s end line.
What To Call Out
“Attack the ball”
“Eyes open”
“Head under the ball”
Progression
To make it easier allow only one player from each team to save with their hands, others must use their head.
Allow players to exploit a weak header by heading straight back over the opponent’s end line.
Hint
Stand centrally when refereeing for the clearest view.
Keith Boanas
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Gerald Kearney, Downtown Las Vegas Soccer Club
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Coaches Testimonials
Gerald Kearney, Downtown Las Vegas Soccer Club
Paul Butler, Florida, USA
Rick Shields, Springboro, USA
Tony Green, Pierrefonds Titans, Quebec, Canada
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