Defensive Heading

Objective

Head the ball away from danger with distance, height, and direction control.

Equipment

• balls

Instructions

1. 1

   Feeder tosses or serves the ball from 3 yards away.

2. 2

   Defender attacks the ball early, heading it back over the feeder's head.

3. 3

   Focus on heading the top half of the ball to keep it from looping dangerously.

4. 4

   15 headers each, progressing to crosses from wider angles.

Coaching Points

• ✓ Attack the ball — don't wait for it to come to you.
• ✓ Eyes open, mouth shut at contact.
• ✓ Aim for distance and height — clear it wide and far.

Variations

• → Add an attacker competing for the header to introduce aerial duel timing.