The Basic Header

Category: Tips and Tricks

Being able to correctly head the ball in a soccer game is important since you can use it to pass or shoot.  Heading the ball incorrectly can give you a headache! Therefore, it is important to learn how to head the ball correctly at an early age.

One of the most common difficulties is to overcome the natural fear of hitting the ball with your head. The trick is to hit the ball before it hits you!  The ball should be hit with your forehead. Make sure to keep your eyes open and on the ball. If you close your eyes, you won’t be able to see the ball and prepare yourself to head it!

The power of a header comes from putting your whole body behind the ball. Bend back your entire upper body and then lunge forward, keeping your shoulders level. Strike the ball with the center of your forehead.

No matter what way you decide to head the ball in a game, make sure you practice it first! One of the best ways to practice is to partner up with someone and stand about 10 feet apart. Take turns tossing the ball to each other and heading the ball back.  The more you practice heading the ball, the more natural it will become, and the less fear you will have doing it in a game!