No Hands Allowed

Everybody knows that soccer players can't use their hands. But there's far more to the game than just using your feet to dribble, pass and shoot the ball on goal. Only your hands are out of play- anything else is fair game. That's why it takes more than a good foot to be a good soccer player.

Head: Soccer balls don't just stay on the ground. They soar through the air and take high bounces off the turf. That's why it's important for soccer players to use their heads. "Heading" the ball, when done correctly, is a very useful approach to the game. Good players can pass the ball to open teammates, advance the ball up the field and even score goals by using their heads on the ball.

Chest: When a loose ball flies through the air, players need to be able to gain control of it. In order to do this, many players use their chest. By puffing out their chests, players are able to knock the ball directly to their feet, where they can dribble, pass or make a play to help their team.

Knees: On a simple level, players use their knees to help corral bouncing balls to gain possession for their team. Good players can stop the ball with their knees and knock it to their feet, one of the most important skills in the game. Starting at a young age, players practice juggling soccer balls on their knees and upper legs. This helps them learn how to control a loose ball or bouncing pass when it comes their way.

Many athletes new to the game might think that soccer is a limiting sport because you can't use your hands. But once they learn how to use the other parts of their bodies, players understand that soccer has plenty of freedom and room for creativity.

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