With the current uncertainties surrounding social distancing and the effect on sports in general, it’s understandable for athletes to feel that they are missing major components of their daily training.
By accepting to see the worldwide situation as a necessary precaution to help keep members of the community safe, athletes can use their creativity to strengthen the most technical aspects of their sport while unable to physically practice with their team and coaches. Soccer players can modify daily training to work on their individual footwork, agility, and endurance skills that collectively contribute to a successful team. As Bruce Lee once said, “I fear not the man who has practiced 10,000 kicks once, but fear the man who has practiced one kick 10,000 times.”
Our friend Tommy Thompson, professional soccer league player for the San Jose Earthquakes of the MLS, reminds us of how important single player drills are for soccer. He has created a resourceful youtube channel for our Cal North soccer players seeking ball skill drills that can easily be done in the driveway, backyard or in a living room. Thompson was part of the Indiana Hoosiers soccer team in college. He led the team to a Big-10 Tournament title and the NCAA tournament during his freshman year. As an incredibly gifted defender, he shares his basic soccer handling drills for players who are just starting or needing a refresh. As an added bonus, Thompson includes his favorite combinations of basic soccer skills into unique soccer challenges and advanced techniques.
Follow Tommy Thompson on his youtube channel for tips, tricks and skills you can do right at home. Also try some of our favorite ideas to virtually play with your teammates:
- Set up a Zoom meeting or group Facetime with your teammates and warm up with a basic skill technique led by Tommy.
- Start a beginner or advanced juggling challenge with friends. Check out some advanced tricks for juggling that will easily get you that win. Thanks again Tommy!
- Host a virtual backyard endurance session and use Tommy’s 10 Cone Dribbling Drill to guide you.
Share your at home soccer skills with your greater community at Cal North. Tag us or use #technicaltuesdayCN or #CalNorthSoccer to share your skills with us.
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