FIRST-TOUCH
What is the FIRST-TOUCH? It’s a term for:
- Receiving the ball
- Stopping the ball, or
- Ball control.
When the FIRST-TOUCH is referenced, assume the FIRST-TOUCH is being performed with INSIDES-OF-THE-FEET.
Click on the FIRST-TOUCH Importance, Problem, and Solution tabs to learn more.
IMPORTANCE
- The FIRST-TOUCH with the INSIDES-OF-THE-FEET is the most important fundamental skill soccer.
- The INSIDE-OF-THE-FOOT is used most often for receiving, passing, and shooting.
- See if that is the case the next time you watch a professional game.
- The structure of the IOTF makes it the best foot surface for receiving, passing and shooting.
- A good FIRST-TOUCH leads to better second touches, and so on.
- The best players on a team will be the players with the best FIRST-TOUCH.
PROBLEM
- America’s FIRST-TOUCH could use a lot of improvement.
- Without a proper and confident FIRST-TOUCH, it is impossible for players to reach their full playing potential.
- There are many reasons that are contributing to the FIRST-TOUCH problem.
- Lack of knowledge (both coach/player)
- Lack of commitment (both player/coach)
- The FIRST-TOUCH is difficult to learn.
SOLUTION
- With knowledge and commitment are keycomes success.
- Knowledge-wise, you are already a better player and/or coach knowing the importance of the FT with the IOTF.
- Now you need to build on this knowledge
- Commitment-wise, coaches must start emphasizing the importance of the FT and players must put in the time and effort to improve their FT.
- Knowledge-wise, you are already a better player and/or coach knowing the importance of the FT with the IOTF.
- Instepper has a number of programs that can be part of the solution.