Football/Soccer Session (Academy Sessions): Defensive Heading

Defensive Heading

Organization:

1. Penalty area set up as shown

2. 7 players (1 attacker, 1 defender, 4 servers, 1 GK) set up as shown

3. 8 balls

Instructions:

1. Each server is given a number and serves the ball into the area when that number is called

2. The attacker has to add pressure to the defender but not challenge for the ball

3. The defender has to clear the serve

4. Payer must drop back to the central cone before the next number is called

5. Play for 8 servers then rotate players

Coaching Points:

1. Assess the flight of the ball

2. Time the jump to take the ball at your highest point

3. Jump off one foot

4. Eyes open

5. Contact head – forehead above the eyebrow

6. Contact ball – bottom

7. Use arms to provide balance, protection and elevation

Progressions:

1. P – Allow the attacker to win the ball and shoot