Heading the ball

I am always surprised by the techniques that some soccer players use when playing soccer. Some are not even considered technique because they were just never taught the proper method of hitting the ball. The most prevalent is when a player does not know how to head the soccer ball. I have seen players head the ball on the very top of the head and even close their eyes which just make it harder to position the ball during a header. Properly heading the soccer ball will aid in possession of the ball and can help setup other plays when kicking the ball is not an option. To properly head the ball, the player must arch the back when the ball is traveling towards them. The key part to a header is to hit the ball with the forehead. Keeping a firm stance and having your feet spread apart will help make contact with the ball. Keeping the arms out when the ball approaches is a great way to keep your balance and to keep the other players away from the approaching ball. If the player needs to jump, the best time to hit the ball is at the apex of the jump. Striking the ball from the waist, moving the upper part of the body forward, with the neck and head moving at the same time will generate the most power in the header. Once this basic technique is developed, the player can begin to modify it to better help the team. I usually like to flick the oncoming ball off my head to a teammate to make the fastest transition possible. I am still working on the diving header, but it is taking a while to get down. Hope this helps with heading the ball.