Now that we’ve entered the new year, soccer players around the globe have the perfect opportunity to set the stage for a successful and fulfilling 2024 season. Although many of us make New Year’s resolutions that we don’t stick by, let this year be the year that you stick them all out!
Now that you have a clean slate, it’s time to come up with some goals and aspirations that you can achieve in the upcoming soccer season. Tailored specifically for soccer players looking to have their best year yet, here are some New Year’s resolutions that can inspire you!
Dedicate some time in every practice to honing your ball control skills. This includes dribbling, passing, and receiving. You may think that you’ve mastered these skills, but you can never practice them too much. Consistent practice will only enhance your technical abilities and boost your confidence on the field.
Soccer is a team sport that requires a successful team dynamic. The better you and your teammates get along, the greater the chance that you’ll succeed. As well, strong relationships with your teammates will also create some fun times once practice is over. Put yourself out there and you could make some lifelong friends.
Many soccer players won’t begin their full season until the spring or summer, so put in the effort and begin practicing now! This could be strength and conditioning training, keeping up with professional matches to learn from, and working on your endurance before the full season comes around.
Goals win games, and accurate shooting is the best way to find the back of the net. Set a resolution to enhance your shooting accuracy from various positions on the field. Find some friends and play some target practice at least one a week, whether that be on the field or inside within your own space.
Soccer is a mentally demanding game, and understanding specific tactics is crucial for success. To improve your understanding of the game, start studying strategies, game plans, and other teams’ tactics to apply to your own playing style.
If you’re someone who enjoys having a signature move or pulling out a crazy skill during the game, try to learn at least one new soccer skill a month. By the end of the year, you’ll have 12 new skills to show off and perfect on the pitch.
It can be scary receiving feedback from your coach or even your friends, but the only way to improve is by embracing feedback rather than ignoring it. Everyone wants to see you succeed, so feedback may seem embarrassing at times, but it’s actually there to help you become a better version of yourself!
Your love for soccer and improving doesn’t have to end when practice does. If you want to keep up with the latest techniques and skills, watch your favorite professional players. You can improve your soccer knowledge and skills by watching the game on TV or seeing if your city has any public games you can watch in the spring and summer.
Just because you may see the professionals play and practice multiple times a week doesn’t mean that you should be too. They have an in-depth rest and recovery routine that allow their bodies to avoid any injuries. Push yourself to be better, but don’t forget to allow yourself to rest and recover!
Many athletes focus so much on perfecting their skills that they sometimes forget to enjoy playing the game. If you forget to have fun, then every game’s going to become a burden to you, and your performance may not be as effective. Go into every game and practice with a positive mindset and have fun!
We’re all excited to see what the new year has in store for everyone! There are loads of tournaments and games to look forward to as players and viewers. If you want to improve your soccer skills in the new year, check out our Pinterest board where we have saved a bunch of drills and skills you can try.
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