Heading situations usually present themselves when the opposing team is clearing the ball from their side of the field or trying to advance towards your goal. If you are properly prepared and have a polished technique, then you can anticipate when and where to meet the ball and how to direct it to a particular player or area of the field. Use these steps to develop your header skills, but make sure you take it slow and practice with a coach who can monitor your progress. If executed improperly, heading can result in neck and/or head injuries, so take the time to adequately prepare for these drills and train only in a safe practice environment.

• Keep your eyes and focus on the ball when it is in flight. As you are judging its speed and trajectory, begin to move into a point of interception. Move forward to meet the ball, don’t just stand still and wait for it to come to you.

• Lock your eyes on the ball and extend your arms for balance as you prepare to jump. Try to approach the ball from a side angle, as a direct approach will force you to bear more impact and put less power into the header.

• Thrust yourself off the ground to meet the ball. Keep your eyes open until the moment of impact, and be careful not to contact or push away opponents as you jump, or you could be called for a foul.

• Gently arch your back as you pull back your head and neck, then, using your forehead, contact the lower half of the ball and direct it towards a teammate or open area of the field.

When beginning this drill for the first time, start by using a soft, stationary ball. Have a coach or teammate hold it out in place as you practice making proper contact. Gradually move on to a moving, in-flight ball when you feel comfortable with your technique. This will help eliminate any fear of heading the ball in game situations, so you won’t hesitate when the moment arrives.