Mastering ball control is a crucial aspect of becoming a successful soccer player. It’s the foundation upon which all other skills are built, and it can make the difference between a good player and a great one. To improve your ball control, it’s essential to incorporate drills that challenge your ability to receive, control, and distribute the ball with precision and composure. One tool that can significantly enhance your ball control training is The Elite XL Rebounder from All Ball Pro. This American-made, extra-large rebounder measures 7′ x 9′ and is designed to provide a predictable ball return, making it ideal for ball control and passing drills. With its bounce-back training system and all-weather construction, The Elite XL Rebounder is perfect for intense workout training sessions. In this article, we’ll explore four essential drills you can perform with The Elite XL Rebounder to improve your ball control and take your game to the next level.
Drill 1: Trapping and Controlling
One of the most fundamental aspects of ball control is the ability to trap and control the ball effectively. This drill will help you develop a soft first touch, allowing you to bring the ball under control quickly and efficiently.
Here’s how to perform the drill:
- Set up The Elite XL Rebounder at a comfortable distance.
- Start by passing the ball against the rebounder with varying trajectories and speeds.
- Focus on trapping the ball with different surfaces of your foot (inside, outside, laces, and sole).
- Once you’ve trapped the ball, take a touch or two to bring it under control.
- Repeat the process, alternating between different trapping techniques and surfaces.
Drill 2: First Touch and Passing
Developing a good first touch is essential for maintaining possession and creating scoring opportunities. This drill will help you improve your first touch and passing accuracy.
Here’s how to perform the drill:
- Set up the rebounder at a comfortable distance.
- Start by passing the ball against the rebounder with varying trajectories and speeds.
- Focus on receiving the ball with a positive first touch, setting it up for a immediate pass back to the rebounder.
- Vary the direction and weight of your passes, ensuring you’re using different surfaces of your foot.
- Repeat the process, emphasizing quick ball control and accurate passing.
Drill 3: Ball Mastery and Feints
Ball mastery and feints are essential skills for creating space and deceiving opponents. This drill will help you develop close control and improve your ability to execute feints effectively.
Here’s how to perform the drill:
- Set up the multi-sport rebounder at a comfortable distance.
- Start by dribbling the ball towards the rebounder, performing various ball mastery moves (stepovers, Maradonas, etc.).
- As you approach the rebounder, execute a feint or dummy, changing direction and passing the ball back against the rebounder.
- Vary the feints and ball mastery moves, incorporating both feet and different surfaces.
- Repeat the process, emphasizing close control and deceptive movement.
Drill 4: Volleys and First-Time Shots
Developing the ability to strike the ball cleanly and accurately is crucial for scoring goals and creating chances. This drill will help you improve your volleys and first-time shots.
Here’s how to perform the drill:
- Set up the extra-large rebounder at a comfortable distance.
- Start by passing the ball against the rebounder with varying trajectories and speeds.
- Focus on striking the ball cleanly with your laces or inside of your foot as it bounces back.
- Vary the height and angle of the ball, practicing volleys and first-time shots from different positions.
- Concentrate on weight transfer, balance, and proper striking technique.
By incorporating these four essential drills into your training routine with The Elite XL Rebounder, you’ll be well on your way to developing superior ball control skills. Remember, mastering ball control is a continuous process that requires dedication, repetition, and the right tools. The Elite XL Rebounder from All Ball Pro provides a versatile and effective training solution, allowing you to fine-tune your skills and take your game to new heights.
