Soccer IQ - How do you get it?
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What is the best way to gain it? Just playing? Watching on tv?
I've noticed in the last 3-4 months my daughter positions herself better at keeper, comes out to the 18 on her own. Is this just her gaining more experience, or will some kids just be better than others with their soccer smarts?
Its little different for keepers than field players. For keepers, they need to understand fundamental angles, ball movement rate (approaching vs moving away) versus self and attacking player, spin and trajectory, and basic physics of realm of possible (what the ball can do) from goal keeping perspective. However, just just a part of the job and positioning the defending line when they are not under pressure and with and without the ball is extremely important too.
The fact that some keeper kicks the ball into 50/50 situation clearly demonstrates lack of understanding of the keeper role in that situation. GK must make sure that the ball is not turned over in own 1/2 and to that extent, ball needs to be placed where the highest possible chance of keeping possession.
For the field players, its more than 4v4 tight situation. In a tight space, technical abilities developed by playing 4v4 is vital. The calmness on the ball and mentally slowing the game down only comes with practice and experience.
Its worth noting that the movement without the ball is JUST AS important as when the player has the ball at his/her feet. The movement can enable space and opportunities that can lead to a score. A simple example would be to imagine a striker running diagonally across the field in front of two center backs during an attack. Depending on how savvy the CBs are, the striker will drag one of the CBs (most likely both) with him creating a larger space between the outside back and CB. Remember that the striker is without the ball. The opened up space is now useful for another attacking player with no pressure. Now, in the example, GK needs to control the movement of the CBs and self.
I'm sure you've seen it in your kid's games. So how does one learn all the movements? To some extent, it will come with more play time but really, it takes an effort by the player to study the field and be aware of EVERYONE's motions with a focus towards own position. Fundamentally, attacking players are trying create separation and space, whereas defending players are trying to close the space and constrain movements. This is why I find the argument of playing ALL positions bit silly after U12 or so. It take few years for player to become fluid with what, where and when to be with and without the ball. It has to become automatic reaction, like muscle memory.
Watching TV helps and having a good coach helps. Also having an analytical mind to know cause/affect and effect to understand the game is helpful.