Skill: Ball control

Different parts of the foot can be used for controlling the ball, such as the inside, the outside, the sole, and the instep. The ball can be played directly toward a player in a stationary position and then to either side of him. The more proficient a player becomes with this technique, the wider the ball can be placed.

Cushioning the Ball

The controlling surface is withdrawn on impact to absorb the pace of the ball. If a ball has to be controlled out of the air, the player should attempt to get the ball down to the feet as quickly as possible in order to perform the next technique. The chest, thigh, and foot are the parts of the body used most frequently in controlling a ball.

Chest

This is the largest area of the body and can be likened to a large pillow or a cushion that absorbs whatever hits it. The surface is immediately withdrawn as the ball touches the chest so as to cushion and therefore prevent the ball from rebounding out of control.

Thigh

There is more of a cushioning effect with this part of the body due to the muscle mass in contact with the ball. The actual part of the thigh that is used can be marked approximately at the bottom of the player's shorts.

Foot

Different parts of the foot can be used successfully depending upon what the player's next move will be.

• Inside: This is the largest area of the foot and the most frequently used. A beginning player will make this surface the only form of control even though it has the major disadvantage of breaking the stride pattern if the player is attempting to control the ball while moving. This is due to the awkward position of the foot, which must be turned outward to receive the ball in balance.
• Outside: Beginning players should be encouraged to use this part of the foot because of its effectiveness in setting up the ball for a drive pass or a shot. The ball can be squeezed to the outside of the player's body with very little effort of foot readjustment. This is done with a smooth movement which can also disguise the player's intentions to a defender. However, some players do have difficulty making the slight adjustment needed to push the ball out to the side and out in front. They will usually overplay one of the other.
• Instep: This is normally used when a ball is dropping and the player has time to control without interference from the opposition. It can also be used when moving in stride to take the pace off the ball without completely bringing the ball to a stop.
• Sole: Use of this part of the foot is often referred to as the wedge trap: the ball is wedged between the sole of the foot and the ground. However, with the ball stopped in this manner, defenders can close in quickly and force the player with the ball to react too quickly in making his next move. Beginning players will use this form of control to line up for the push pass.