First-Touch
What is the First-Touch? It’s another term for: receiving the ball; stopping the ball; ball control.
IMPORTANCE
- The First-Touch with the Insides-of-the Feet is the most important fundamental soccer skill.
- The Insides-of-the Feet are used most often for receiving, passing, and shooting.
- Check out any 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.
- You will find the “First-Touch” term always capitalized because of its importance. (top)
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. (top)
SOLUTION
- With knowledge and commitment comes success.
- Knowledge-wise, you are already a better player and/or coach knowing the importance of the First-Touch with the insides-of-the-feet.
- Now you need to build on this knowledge
- Commitment-wise, coaches must start emphasizing the importance of the First-Touch and players must put in the time and effort to improve their First-Touch.
- Knowledge-wise, you are already a better player and/or coach knowing the importance of the First-Touch with the insides-of-the-feet.
- Instepper has a number of programs that can be part of the solution. (top)