FineSoccer Kids 36

Welcome to the FineSoccer Kids Newsletter.  Today’s subject deals with calling for the ball.

Too many soccer players want the ball during the game but don’t know how to call for it.  There are two ways to call for the ball and both will be addressed briefly in this newsletter.

The first way to call for a ball in soccer is to simply tell the player with the ball you are open and that you want the ball.  Unfortunately, too many players do this by simply yelling the player’s name.  The problem with this is that the player with the ball isn’t being given any directions and must then look around to try to find the player calling for the ball.  It is so much more helpful if the player who wants the ball might call “Sue look square” or “Lisa, BACK!” rather than just “Sue”.  By giving more specific directions it will significantly increase the chances of receiving the ball. 

The player with the ball must also realize that the person calling for the ball is giving a direction for that immediate time and not 5 seconds later.  It’s not uncommon for a player to call for a ball to be dropped back to them and after the player with the ball takes a few more seconds she passes it back and it’s intercepted.  A call for the ball is saying that at that immediate moment, the pass is available.

The key to calling for the ball this way is to be specific yet not take too long.  For example, to say “Sue, if you get a chance, please consider the possibility of playing a ball back to me if you don’t mind” would take way too long and not be considered as realistic but “Sue back” is quite specific and brief.

The other way to call for the ball is non-verbal.  Simply making a hard run into space is a great non-verbal way to call for the ball.  Some would refer to this as “running to ask”.  A hard run into space is a way to communicate to the player with the ball that you see something available and are willing to work hard to take this option.

Other non-verbal methods would include making eye contact with the player with the ball.  This might be used for a take over (see http://finesoccer.com/finesoccer_kids_29.htm for more on takeovers), or a player who is setting up as a target player upfront.

The actual best way to communicate that you want the ball is to combine the three methods described.  Call for the ball with specific directions while making a run to space and making eye contact with the player with the ball.  If you do this on a regular basis you will be making it easier on your teammates and also increase the probability of you getting the ball.

Without proper communication, it’s difficult for a team to work well together.  Work on improving your communication on the field and see what kind of an improvement you will notice

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

Feel free to participate in the FineSoccer Forum at http://finesoccer.net.  This is a great place to exchange ideas on soccer.

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Have a great day!

Lawrence