FineSoccer Kids 18

Welcome to the FineSoccer Kids Newsletter. Today's subject deals with scoring.

There is a huge difference between shooting (see http://finesoccer.com/finesoccer_kids_7.htm) and scoring. The first thing to realize is that without shooting, you will not score but just because you are a good shooter doesn't mean you are a goal scorer.

The key to scoring goals is so simple yet so misunderstood. Too many people think that the way to score goals is to get the perfect shot. The truth is the way to score goals is to hit shots (perfect or not). When I watch soccer games, I see so many scoring opportunities lost because of the pursuit of a better opportunity, which never develops.

If you are on the field and have the ball and THINK you MIGHT be able to score from where you are, the most selfish thing you can do is NOT take the chance. While others might see passing when there is a good scoring opportunity as being unselfish, I see it as being extremely selfish because you are afraid to take responsibility for your actions and instead are going to pass the buck to someone else who if she fails will take the blame. The unselfish player is willing to take a chance and not force her teammates to take responsibility for her own actions.

The way to learn to score more goals is to take chances in training and in games. One of the most popular games for young players is "World Cup" (see http://finesoccer.com/finesoccer_drill_75.htm). This encourages players to shoot and it's this type of encouragement that makes for goal scorers. However, the key is to take the ideas of creating scoring opportunities from games like World Cup and transfer them into real soccer games whenever possible.

In summary, the only way to score is to shoot and the more shots (preferably on goal) the greater the likelihood of scoring. Take chances and you will see results!

Any comments, questions or suggestions should be sent to kidscomments@finesoccer.com. 

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Have a great day!

Lawrence