SOCCER

As defending has become more organized in modern soccer, the ground route for passing the ball has been reduced. With reduced passing space, high balls into the penalty area increases. During the course of a game the situations in which a player has to head the ball either for defensive or attacking purposes, will be numerous. 

Careful attention should be given to train players to deal with the physical and mental aspects of heading the ball. In fact early experiences in heading the ball can be painful if careful progression in building up confidence is not applied. Young players fear heading the ball because they feel it will harm them. Confidence has to be built slowly through correct repetition and encouragement. With this in mind we should examine the basic techniques involved in successful heading. 

Heading is divided into two categories. "Defensive" and "Attacking". 

It is important in both defending and attacking that the player is first to the ball and prepared to attack it. The movement of the trunk backward and forwards, along with the neck muscles provide the power. The forehead is used because it is the flattest and thickest area of the head and gives a more accurate striking surface. On contact with the ball it is important that the player must head through the ball in the direction of the intended target. 

For Defensive Heading, follow three rules:  

Head the ball High:
Heading the ball high favors the defense as it allows them time to re-adjust their defensive positions and reorganize.

Head the ball Long:
Heading the ball long will assist from keeping the ball away from immediate danger.

Head the ball Wide:
Heading the ball wide will play the ball into a safe angle from goal.

To execute these principals it is important to head the ball beneath the mid-line of the ball. For attacking heading that the key factor is keeping the ball low. Heading through the horizontal mid-line or top half of the ball enables you to head down towards the goal line, making it as difficult as possible for the goalkeeper.  In both aspects of defensive and attacking heading aggression and timing is of paramount importance.