Signature Player Moves (Techniques)
Tony Pitch (Triple Step-Over Rivelino)
Soccer strategy / tactic:
Triple Step-over Rivelino
Move Nickname:
The Tony Pitch Triple-Take
The Player:
Tony Pitch
Player Notes:
Tony Pitch has natural skills, is driven, and practices extra to improve his footwork and passing abilities. Tony learned the Triple Step-over Rivelino because it was an exciting and effective move that was hard to follow and defend. He works extra hard to improve the fake and increase his speed.
Skill Description:
In order to complete a Triple Step-over Rivelino a player makes a series of three step-overs and then a Rivelino while dribbling towards a defender, then to finish takes off in the direction of final foot used for the Rivelino.
What the skill is:
Triple Step-over Rivelino is a multi-step fake that is complex but effective. Not all players have the skills or quickness to complete this move, and even those that do still require extra practice to make sure they can do it at game speed.
What it feels like:
For a player the Triple Step-Over Rivelino is tough to defend – there are just too many moves that a player can make. Left, right, left, right – who knows which way they’re really going? That’s a lot to defend? Try being the player making the move and keeping track of all that. The move can be even more challenging for the player attempting to use it effectively.
Coach’s Notes:
There are simpler moves for a player to make, but the Triple Step-Over Rivelino is extremely satisfying when done properly. Extra time needs to be spent in practice perfecting timing and movements. This requires agility and coordination and is not the move for everyone.
Triple Step-over Rivelino
Move Nickname:
The Tony Pitch Triple-Take
The Player:
Tony Pitch
Player Notes:
Tony Pitch has natural skills, is driven, and practices extra to improve his footwork and passing abilities. Tony learned the Triple Step-over Rivelino because it was an exciting and effective move that was hard to follow and defend. He works extra hard to improve the fake and increase his speed.
Skill Description:
In order to complete a Triple Step-over Rivelino a player makes a series of three step-overs and then a Rivelino while dribbling towards a defender, then to finish takes off in the direction of final foot used for the Rivelino.
What the skill is:
Triple Step-over Rivelino is a multi-step fake that is complex but effective. Not all players have the skills or quickness to complete this move, and even those that do still require extra practice to make sure they can do it at game speed.
What it feels like:
For a player the Triple Step-Over Rivelino is tough to defend – there are just too many moves that a player can make. Left, right, left, right – who knows which way they’re really going? That’s a lot to defend? Try being the player making the move and keeping track of all that. The move can be even more challenging for the player attempting to use it effectively.
Coach’s Notes:
There are simpler moves for a player to make, but the Triple Step-Over Rivelino is extremely satisfying when done properly. Extra time needs to be spent in practice perfecting timing and movements. This requires agility and coordination and is not the move for everyone.
Marcos Silva (The Silva Twirl Whirl)
Soccer strategy / tactic:
Double step over
Move Nickname:
The Silva Twirl Whirl
The Player:
Marcos Silva
Player Notes:
Marcos is a show boater who has no interest in passing to his teammates. Because of his personality, he has to look for great moves that confuse his opponents, help him get open and create scoring opportunities. Marcos fell in love with the Double Step Over because it looks cool and it makes him look like a super skilled dribbler.
Move Description:
The Double Step over is a quality move to get your opponent off balance while moving at full speed. While dribbling the ball forward, you move your foot in front of and around the ball – starting from the inside and going outside in a circular motion. The move is counterclockwise if start with your left foot, or if you begin with the right it is a clockwise motion.
What the move is:
This is a move of grace and speed and balance and timing and misdirection. As your legs swing, it should hypnotize your opponent so he won’t know which way you’re about to cut until you’re already past him.
What it feels like:
A whirlwind is coming your way. Trying to follow the feet can be confusing, so it’s better to watch the ball.
Coach’s Notes:
Timing, timing, timing. Remember your timing. There is a lot to do and a small amount of space to do it in. Moving with the ball makes it more difficult to defend against, but make sure you practice enough or else the ball can get caught up in your feet and you end up tripping yourself. Execute the step overs quickly and in rhythm. Slow step overs don’t fool anybody. Once you have your opponent on the hook, make sure to explode into space and leave the defender behind. Unfortunately this move can be unsuccessful if the defender keeps his eye on the ball and not your feet.
Double step over
Move Nickname:
The Silva Twirl Whirl
The Player:
Marcos Silva
Player Notes:
Marcos is a show boater who has no interest in passing to his teammates. Because of his personality, he has to look for great moves that confuse his opponents, help him get open and create scoring opportunities. Marcos fell in love with the Double Step Over because it looks cool and it makes him look like a super skilled dribbler.
Move Description:
The Double Step over is a quality move to get your opponent off balance while moving at full speed. While dribbling the ball forward, you move your foot in front of and around the ball – starting from the inside and going outside in a circular motion. The move is counterclockwise if start with your left foot, or if you begin with the right it is a clockwise motion.
What the move is:
This is a move of grace and speed and balance and timing and misdirection. As your legs swing, it should hypnotize your opponent so he won’t know which way you’re about to cut until you’re already past him.
What it feels like:
A whirlwind is coming your way. Trying to follow the feet can be confusing, so it’s better to watch the ball.
Coach’s Notes:
Timing, timing, timing. Remember your timing. There is a lot to do and a small amount of space to do it in. Moving with the ball makes it more difficult to defend against, but make sure you practice enough or else the ball can get caught up in your feet and you end up tripping yourself. Execute the step overs quickly and in rhythm. Slow step overs don’t fool anybody. Once you have your opponent on the hook, make sure to explode into space and leave the defender behind. Unfortunately this move can be unsuccessful if the defender keeps his eye on the ball and not your feet.
Kaleo (The Kaleo Snake Shake)
Soccer strategy / tactic:
Elastico
Move Nickname:
The Kaleo Snake Shake
The Player:
Kaleo
Player Notes:
Kaleo is known as the fastest guy on the field. He makes sudden moves that are hard to follow. Kaleo learned the Elastico to take advantage of his skills and showcase his speed. One of his favorite things to do is to throw his whole body into the move and really sell it in order to get his opponent moving the wrong way.
Move Description:
The Elastico requires fast foot moments to get your opponent moving the wrong way. Push the ball as far as you can away to the side with the outside of your foot, get the defender to commit, then snap the ball back the other way and speed away.
What the skill is:
The Elastico is all about looking like you’re going one way when you’re really going another.
What it feels like:
For the player it almost feels like dancing – a quick slide and shimmy one way and then a snap step the other way. For the defender it feels like you’re watching a snake charmer give you the slip.
Coach’s Notes:
Keep your foot as close to the ball as possible so you can make your move faster. Mix up your feints with cuts and alternate fast moves so you become as unpredictable as possible; add in your own twists and variations to make it more unstoppable. The move is more effective when used while moving, but this can prove to be more difficult, so don’t attempt it in a match until you are practiced and ready.
Elastico
Move Nickname:
The Kaleo Snake Shake
The Player:
Kaleo
Player Notes:
Kaleo is known as the fastest guy on the field. He makes sudden moves that are hard to follow. Kaleo learned the Elastico to take advantage of his skills and showcase his speed. One of his favorite things to do is to throw his whole body into the move and really sell it in order to get his opponent moving the wrong way.
Move Description:
The Elastico requires fast foot moments to get your opponent moving the wrong way. Push the ball as far as you can away to the side with the outside of your foot, get the defender to commit, then snap the ball back the other way and speed away.
What the skill is:
The Elastico is all about looking like you’re going one way when you’re really going another.
What it feels like:
For the player it almost feels like dancing – a quick slide and shimmy one way and then a snap step the other way. For the defender it feels like you’re watching a snake charmer give you the slip.
Coach’s Notes:
Keep your foot as close to the ball as possible so you can make your move faster. Mix up your feints with cuts and alternate fast moves so you become as unpredictable as possible; add in your own twists and variations to make it more unstoppable. The move is more effective when used while moving, but this can prove to be more difficult, so don’t attempt it in a match until you are practiced and ready.
Cesar Lopez (Left Foot Fake Of Terror)
Soccer strategy / tactic:
Fake shot / Single Cut
Move Nickname:
Left Foot Fake of Terror
The Player:
Cesar Lopez
Player Notes:
Cesar is a talented midfielder, who has perfected a fake shot using his left foot. He has a reputation around the league as being an intense and intimidating player. He takes advantage of this and will trash talk his opponents to further get them off their game. Once he is in the head of an opponent and has them confused, Cesar is nearly unstoppable. The fact that he relies so heavily on the same is a weakness in his game and can get him into trouble. Once an opponent figures Cesar out and knows he favors his left, then they can take advantage of that and get him off his game. So far the “Left foot fake of terror” has served Cesar well and very few opponents have the skills necessary to defend him consistently.
Skill Description:
The Fake shot / Single Cut is an effective move to get a defender off his game and open up a half a second advantage and gain a half a step and allow you to escape a defender. The key is to make your fake shot look exactly like your actual shot or cross. This will make the defender second guess what it is you are actually doing and get them out of position. Then all you have to do is cut it back and leave behind in the dust, with only themself to blame.
What the skill is:
In its simplest for, the Fake Shot / Single Cut is a form of acting. You have to convince your defender that you are going to do something when you’re really about to do the opposite.
What it feels like:
It feels like you’re being intimidated, tricked and shown up all at the same time. Don’t flinch. If you do that, then Cesar is already a step ahead of you.
Coach’s Notes:
The fake shot/cross is pretending you are actually going to shoot or pass the ball and at the last second cut it back inside or outside. The key to success is selling the move and making it look like you are actually going to do the action. You need a big wind up to really sell it. Make sure to keep the ball close to your body to make changing directions easier and faster.
Fake shot / Single Cut
Move Nickname:
Left Foot Fake of Terror
The Player:
Cesar Lopez
Player Notes:
Cesar is a talented midfielder, who has perfected a fake shot using his left foot. He has a reputation around the league as being an intense and intimidating player. He takes advantage of this and will trash talk his opponents to further get them off their game. Once he is in the head of an opponent and has them confused, Cesar is nearly unstoppable. The fact that he relies so heavily on the same is a weakness in his game and can get him into trouble. Once an opponent figures Cesar out and knows he favors his left, then they can take advantage of that and get him off his game. So far the “Left foot fake of terror” has served Cesar well and very few opponents have the skills necessary to defend him consistently.
Skill Description:
The Fake shot / Single Cut is an effective move to get a defender off his game and open up a half a second advantage and gain a half a step and allow you to escape a defender. The key is to make your fake shot look exactly like your actual shot or cross. This will make the defender second guess what it is you are actually doing and get them out of position. Then all you have to do is cut it back and leave behind in the dust, with only themself to blame.
What the skill is:
In its simplest for, the Fake Shot / Single Cut is a form of acting. You have to convince your defender that you are going to do something when you’re really about to do the opposite.
What it feels like:
It feels like you’re being intimidated, tricked and shown up all at the same time. Don’t flinch. If you do that, then Cesar is already a step ahead of you.
Coach’s Notes:
The fake shot/cross is pretending you are actually going to shoot or pass the ball and at the last second cut it back inside or outside. The key to success is selling the move and making it look like you are actually going to do the action. You need a big wind up to really sell it. Make sure to keep the ball close to your body to make changing directions easier and faster.
Brian Parker (The Parker Slip-N-Turn)
Soccer strategy / tactic:
Cruyff Turn
Move Nickname:
The Parker Slip-n-Turn
The Player:
Brian Parker
Player Notes:
Brian is a leader and understands the game. He knows his teammates pay extra attention to his actions on the field. He wanted to learn to make moves that would inspire his team and be deflating to his opponent. Brian is an aggressive player and looked for a way to channel that aggressiveness into scoring opportunities for his team. Brian learned the Cryuff Turn because he could use it to help him attack and open up lots of other options for him to make plays. He could shake a defender easily, setting himself up to make important passes, or if someone anticipated the move and over committed to stopping it, Brian could do the unexpected and simply pass the ball away.
Move Description:
You show movement in one direction to get the defender to commit, but then take the ball back the other way. This is a perfect way to escape tight coverage, multiple defenders, or when you are trapped or cornered.
What the skill is:
The Cryuff Turn is a quick trick of evasion and a perfect way to beat an opponent or buy extra time to make a needed pass.
What it feels like:
It feels like you’ve been cheated. Opponents get frustrated playing Brian because they think they know where he’s going, only to be spun in the opposite direction.
Coach’s Notes:
Keep your eyes on the player, not where you think the play is going. Be ready for a twist or a turn where you’ll have to change directions and accelerate quickly to catch up.
Cruyff Turn
Move Nickname:
The Parker Slip-n-Turn
The Player:
Brian Parker
Player Notes:
Brian is a leader and understands the game. He knows his teammates pay extra attention to his actions on the field. He wanted to learn to make moves that would inspire his team and be deflating to his opponent. Brian is an aggressive player and looked for a way to channel that aggressiveness into scoring opportunities for his team. Brian learned the Cryuff Turn because he could use it to help him attack and open up lots of other options for him to make plays. He could shake a defender easily, setting himself up to make important passes, or if someone anticipated the move and over committed to stopping it, Brian could do the unexpected and simply pass the ball away.
Move Description:
You show movement in one direction to get the defender to commit, but then take the ball back the other way. This is a perfect way to escape tight coverage, multiple defenders, or when you are trapped or cornered.
What the skill is:
The Cryuff Turn is a quick trick of evasion and a perfect way to beat an opponent or buy extra time to make a needed pass.
What it feels like:
It feels like you’ve been cheated. Opponents get frustrated playing Brian because they think they know where he’s going, only to be spun in the opposite direction.
Coach’s Notes:
Keep your eyes on the player, not where you think the play is going. Be ready for a twist or a turn where you’ll have to change directions and accelerate quickly to catch up.
Dwayne Sanders (The Sanders Boogie Shoogie)
Soccer strategy / tactic:
The Rabona
Move Nickname:
The Sanders Boogie Shoogie
The Player:
Dwayne Sanders
Player Notes:
Dwayne is known for his quickness and body control. Dwayne is also a dancer and uses his natural smoothness in the way he plays. He uses moves that require precise movements and are hard to defend and often look like dance moves. He wants to take advantage of his natural talents, and put on a show while doing it. The Rabona is a great move for Dwayne because it requires excellent foot work, is challenging and showy, and allows him multiple options to pass or cross.
Skill Description:
The Rabona is a way of kicking the ball where you wrap your leg around the back of your plant leg, basically crossing your legs, and hitting the ball for a cross or pass.
What the skill is:
The Rabona is a good skill for because it gives you options to shoot or pass in a very specific unexpected direction that can confuse defenders and allow for big plays. It’s also not a bad way to show off fancy footwork and intimidate and impress other players.
What it feels like:
Kicking a proper Rabona can feel great, it can feel like you’re dancing or putting on a show. It makes a player feel like they have awesome skills and can be a way to taunt your opponent at the same time.
Coach’s Notes:
The Rabona is a good trick, but it is often hard to pull off so players should be tempered and told not to overuse the move. Try to use a big wind up and really follow through for maximum effect.
The Rabona
Move Nickname:
The Sanders Boogie Shoogie
The Player:
Dwayne Sanders
Player Notes:
Dwayne is known for his quickness and body control. Dwayne is also a dancer and uses his natural smoothness in the way he plays. He uses moves that require precise movements and are hard to defend and often look like dance moves. He wants to take advantage of his natural talents, and put on a show while doing it. The Rabona is a great move for Dwayne because it requires excellent foot work, is challenging and showy, and allows him multiple options to pass or cross.
Skill Description:
The Rabona is a way of kicking the ball where you wrap your leg around the back of your plant leg, basically crossing your legs, and hitting the ball for a cross or pass.
What the skill is:
The Rabona is a good skill for because it gives you options to shoot or pass in a very specific unexpected direction that can confuse defenders and allow for big plays. It’s also not a bad way to show off fancy footwork and intimidate and impress other players.
What it feels like:
Kicking a proper Rabona can feel great, it can feel like you’re dancing or putting on a show. It makes a player feel like they have awesome skills and can be a way to taunt your opponent at the same time.
Coach’s Notes:
The Rabona is a good trick, but it is often hard to pull off so players should be tempered and told not to overuse the move. Try to use a big wind up and really follow through for maximum effect.
Josh Baker (The Baker Stretch-N-Steal)
Soccer strategy / tactic:
Real flexible/stretch to steal ball
Move Nickname:
The Baker Stretch-n-Steal
The Player:
Josh Baker
Player Notes:
Josh has normal speed, normal footwork, and normal passing abilities. Josh knows he isn’t the best player on the field and therefore is always looking for ways to prove himself to his father, his teammates, and to himself. Josh is very flexible and has good leg reach. This allows him to slip in and steal balls when it is least expected. Because Josh isn’t we known around the league, opponents aren’t always on the look out of this and Josh can make some sneaky and important plays.
Skill Description:
Stretching to steal the ball is basically using the full extent of your body’s ability to make a big play.
What the skill is:
Stretching and Flexibility can be practices and trained like any other skill. Through proper conditioning most players can improve their ability to make steals this way.
What it feels like:
Opponents hate to play against someone who can steal the ball. It’s annoying, breaks your drives, and ruins your concentration. It’s even worse when it comes from a sneaky player and at unexpected times.
Coach’s Notes:
Steals are great when your team is on defense. Unexpected steals are even better. They break drives, they create opportunities, they leave the other team guessing and confused and not sure what to do on their next drive. Having a sneaky player that can make the improbable probable will make any coach smile.
Real flexible/stretch to steal ball
Move Nickname:
The Baker Stretch-n-Steal
The Player:
Josh Baker
Player Notes:
Josh has normal speed, normal footwork, and normal passing abilities. Josh knows he isn’t the best player on the field and therefore is always looking for ways to prove himself to his father, his teammates, and to himself. Josh is very flexible and has good leg reach. This allows him to slip in and steal balls when it is least expected. Because Josh isn’t we known around the league, opponents aren’t always on the look out of this and Josh can make some sneaky and important plays.
Skill Description:
Stretching to steal the ball is basically using the full extent of your body’s ability to make a big play.
What the skill is:
Stretching and Flexibility can be practices and trained like any other skill. Through proper conditioning most players can improve their ability to make steals this way.
What it feels like:
Opponents hate to play against someone who can steal the ball. It’s annoying, breaks your drives, and ruins your concentration. It’s even worse when it comes from a sneaky player and at unexpected times.
Coach’s Notes:
Steals are great when your team is on defense. Unexpected steals are even better. They break drives, they create opportunities, they leave the other team guessing and confused and not sure what to do on their next drive. Having a sneaky player that can make the improbable probable will make any coach smile.
Mark Hunter (The Hunter Lion Slide)
Soccer strategy / tactic:
Special slide tackle
Move Nickname:
The “Hunter” Lion Slide
The Player:
Mark Hunter
Player Notes:
Mark is an all-round sporty kid, takes care of his body and is already lifting weights. He plays hard but is aggressive and has a temper. The other kids sometimes call him “The Hatchet.” Mark can be very aggressive and sometimes plays dirty. Mark loves the Slide Tackle because it is such an aggressive move and can be such a game changer. Mark knows it is his risk, high reward, but he prefers to take that chance.
Skill Description:
A Slide Tackle is a way to cover a large are of ground and still allow the player a chance to make a play on the ball. Sometimes it allows a player who is over committed in one direction to make up the space and still make a defensive stop. But this move can fail just as easily, so it is important to remember that a Slide Tackle is a last ditch effort to defend, not a first or primary choice.
What the skill is:
A Slide Tackle is an attempt to tackle the ball away from an opponent while sliding on the ground. It takes speed and timing to perform and flexibility and a long reach to be most effective. It is important to be careful and know what you’re doing. You may foul a player in an attempt on the ball, or even draw a flag if your move looks dangerous even if you don’t actually end up tripping your opponent.
What it feels like:
Slides Tackles are exciting and fun to perform. Players enjoy making slide tackles because they can result in big plays. If you can take the ball away and control it, you can ruin your opponent’s drive while starting one of your own. This is very appealing to aggressive players.
Coach’s Notes:
Slide Tackles are a great way to steal the ball if your player is ready. Tripping is not tackling. Fouls are not stealing the ball. Injuries do not help anyone. Players with great body control and reach should practice the slide tackle to really understand how and when to make this move. It’s not just about your leg reach – you need timing, flexibility, and total foot and leg control.
Special slide tackle
Move Nickname:
The “Hunter” Lion Slide
The Player:
Mark Hunter
Player Notes:
Mark is an all-round sporty kid, takes care of his body and is already lifting weights. He plays hard but is aggressive and has a temper. The other kids sometimes call him “The Hatchet.” Mark can be very aggressive and sometimes plays dirty. Mark loves the Slide Tackle because it is such an aggressive move and can be such a game changer. Mark knows it is his risk, high reward, but he prefers to take that chance.
Skill Description:
A Slide Tackle is a way to cover a large are of ground and still allow the player a chance to make a play on the ball. Sometimes it allows a player who is over committed in one direction to make up the space and still make a defensive stop. But this move can fail just as easily, so it is important to remember that a Slide Tackle is a last ditch effort to defend, not a first or primary choice.
What the skill is:
A Slide Tackle is an attempt to tackle the ball away from an opponent while sliding on the ground. It takes speed and timing to perform and flexibility and a long reach to be most effective. It is important to be careful and know what you’re doing. You may foul a player in an attempt on the ball, or even draw a flag if your move looks dangerous even if you don’t actually end up tripping your opponent.
What it feels like:
Slides Tackles are exciting and fun to perform. Players enjoy making slide tackles because they can result in big plays. If you can take the ball away and control it, you can ruin your opponent’s drive while starting one of your own. This is very appealing to aggressive players.
Coach’s Notes:
Slide Tackles are a great way to steal the ball if your player is ready. Tripping is not tackling. Fouls are not stealing the ball. Injuries do not help anyone. Players with great body control and reach should practice the slide tackle to really understand how and when to make this move. It’s not just about your leg reach – you need timing, flexibility, and total foot and leg control.
Leo Pirelli (The Pirelli 360)
Soccer strategy / tactic:
The Roulette
Move Nickname:
The Pirelli 360
The Player:
Leo Pirelli
Player Notes:
Leo is a confident and capable player. Leo has natural speed and is always in great shape. He is a smart player and practices a lot. Leo was drawn to the Roulette because it appealed to his sensibilities as a player and he was skilled enough to pick it up and be able to perform it while moving at full speed. Leo doesn’t get dizzy and is able to control the ball and keep an eye on the field while completing his spin.
Skill Description:
The Roulette is a really great way to change direction and create space between you and your defender. This in a very action oriented move where you complete a 360 spin and fake your opponent out, freeing yourself to head off while they’re still trying to figure out where you went.
What the skill is:
The Roulette is essentially a spin move where you take the ball with you. This move takes good body positioning where your opponent is almost a half-step out ahead of you. Then your spin backwards will create even more space as he’ll be too committed to moving forward.
What it feels like:
The move is fun to perform and to watch. Now you see me, now you don't. Start your move, get your opponent’s head spun around looking for you and by the time they see what you’ve done, you’ve completed your spin and are heading off without them.
Coach’s Notes:
Be careful you aren’t trying too hard and just making yourself dizzy out there. There’s no reason to use a move that you aren’t comfortable with or ready to make. All you’ll end up doing is tricking yourself.
The Roulette
Move Nickname:
The Pirelli 360
The Player:
Leo Pirelli
Player Notes:
Leo is a confident and capable player. Leo has natural speed and is always in great shape. He is a smart player and practices a lot. Leo was drawn to the Roulette because it appealed to his sensibilities as a player and he was skilled enough to pick it up and be able to perform it while moving at full speed. Leo doesn’t get dizzy and is able to control the ball and keep an eye on the field while completing his spin.
Skill Description:
The Roulette is a really great way to change direction and create space between you and your defender. This in a very action oriented move where you complete a 360 spin and fake your opponent out, freeing yourself to head off while they’re still trying to figure out where you went.
What the skill is:
The Roulette is essentially a spin move where you take the ball with you. This move takes good body positioning where your opponent is almost a half-step out ahead of you. Then your spin backwards will create even more space as he’ll be too committed to moving forward.
What it feels like:
The move is fun to perform and to watch. Now you see me, now you don't. Start your move, get your opponent’s head spun around looking for you and by the time they see what you’ve done, you’ve completed your spin and are heading off without them.
Coach’s Notes:
Be careful you aren’t trying too hard and just making yourself dizzy out there. There’s no reason to use a move that you aren’t comfortable with or ready to make. All you’ll end up doing is tricking yourself.
Patrick Lee (The Back Wrap)
Soccer strategy / tactic:
Pull Back Vee
Move Nickname:
The Back Wrap
The Player:
Patrick Lee
Player Notes:
Patrick isn’t the fastest or most talented player, but he has good endurance and makes quick and speedy moves that help him get separation in traffic. He likes move that fool and surprise opponents and give him more opportunities to get away. He likes the Pull Back Vee because it is a quick and easy move that lets him change directions when least expected and lose an opponent.
Skill Description:
The Pull Back Vee is a quick and easy move that allows a player to create separation from a defender and change directions. A player with the ball will mimic a pass, but instead of passing he’ll pull the ball back and turn in another direction to move past the defender.
What the skill is:
The Pull Back Vee is a skill used to throw a defender off balance by faking a shot of cross in one direction, then pulling the ball away and pushing it past the defender in the opposite way with the same foot to create a “V” shaped motion on the field.
What it feels like:
The Pull Back Vee is a simple timing trick to get a defender slightly in the wrong direction so you can move past them.
Coach’s Notes:
The Pull Back Vee may look simple, but it’s a great move for evading pressure and getting out of sticky situations. Players need to make sure to full commit to the move and to do it quickly. It will create the opening for escape you’re looking for, but you’re the one that has to make it happen before a defender can catch up.
Pull Back Vee
Move Nickname:
The Back Wrap
The Player:
Patrick Lee
Player Notes:
Patrick isn’t the fastest or most talented player, but he has good endurance and makes quick and speedy moves that help him get separation in traffic. He likes move that fool and surprise opponents and give him more opportunities to get away. He likes the Pull Back Vee because it is a quick and easy move that lets him change directions when least expected and lose an opponent.
Skill Description:
The Pull Back Vee is a quick and easy move that allows a player to create separation from a defender and change directions. A player with the ball will mimic a pass, but instead of passing he’ll pull the ball back and turn in another direction to move past the defender.
What the skill is:
The Pull Back Vee is a skill used to throw a defender off balance by faking a shot of cross in one direction, then pulling the ball away and pushing it past the defender in the opposite way with the same foot to create a “V” shaped motion on the field.
What it feels like:
The Pull Back Vee is a simple timing trick to get a defender slightly in the wrong direction so you can move past them.
Coach’s Notes:
The Pull Back Vee may look simple, but it’s a great move for evading pressure and getting out of sticky situations. Players need to make sure to full commit to the move and to do it quickly. It will create the opening for escape you’re looking for, but you’re the one that has to make it happen before a defender can catch up.
Frederick Claus (The Claus Keeper Leaper)
Soccer strategy / tactic:
Perfect Form Dive
Move Nickname:
The Claus Keeper Leaper
The Player:
Frederick Claus
Player Notes:
Frederick plays Goalie and is a near perfect goalie with a perfect athletic physique. He has great field vision and good anticipation skills. Frederick is known for his Perfect Form when he dives to block the ball. A former model, Frederick has always had awesome body control and can move and pose while making split second decisions on the field. Staying in perfect form and making a picturesque pose is basically second nature to him.
Skill Description:
The Perfect Form Dive is when a player keeps absolute control over his body while moving quickly and efficiently through space. Watching a player with this skill is like seeing a living statue or work of art. A player doesn’t always mean to be putting on a show, but sometimes he can’t help himself.
What the skill is:
The Perfect Form Dive is a rare combination of ability, showmanship, and pure physical form.
What it feels like:
The Perfect Form Dive is like watching a living work of art. Coaches love a skilled goalie that can save the day when everything else is failing. Goalies love to look good and put on a show. They want their teammates to be impressed and admire their moves. Someone who can save the day while looking good is remembered.
Coach’s Notes:
A coach wants his goalie to focus on the game and making his blocks and saves. Coaches don’t care one way or the other about perfect form for perfect form’s sake. They just want their goalie to get the job done. A goalie that focuses only on looking good out there, without performing the fundamentals, will quickly find himself on the bench.
Perfect Form Dive
Move Nickname:
The Claus Keeper Leaper
The Player:
Frederick Claus
Player Notes:
Frederick plays Goalie and is a near perfect goalie with a perfect athletic physique. He has great field vision and good anticipation skills. Frederick is known for his Perfect Form when he dives to block the ball. A former model, Frederick has always had awesome body control and can move and pose while making split second decisions on the field. Staying in perfect form and making a picturesque pose is basically second nature to him.
Skill Description:
The Perfect Form Dive is when a player keeps absolute control over his body while moving quickly and efficiently through space. Watching a player with this skill is like seeing a living statue or work of art. A player doesn’t always mean to be putting on a show, but sometimes he can’t help himself.
What the skill is:
The Perfect Form Dive is a rare combination of ability, showmanship, and pure physical form.
What it feels like:
The Perfect Form Dive is like watching a living work of art. Coaches love a skilled goalie that can save the day when everything else is failing. Goalies love to look good and put on a show. They want their teammates to be impressed and admire their moves. Someone who can save the day while looking good is remembered.
Coach’s Notes:
A coach wants his goalie to focus on the game and making his blocks and saves. Coaches don’t care one way or the other about perfect form for perfect form’s sake. They just want their goalie to get the job done. A goalie that focuses only on looking good out there, without performing the fundamentals, will quickly find himself on the bench.
Diego Ortega (The Ortega Mega)
Soccer strategy / tactic:
The Single Step-over
Move Nickname:
The Ortega Mega
The Player:
Diego Ortega
Player Notes:
Diego is a naturally skilled soccer player. He has great moves, can dribble, and is a very technical player. He doesn’t like to practice, but he has mastered the Single Step-over. Diego is very good at using this move in spontaneous and unexpected moments so defenders can’t get used to what he’s doing. One of his biggest strengths is he knows how to mix up his motions so opponents can’t track his previous plays and guess what he’s about to do.
Move Description:
The Single Step-over is a very useful move to get your opponent off balance while moving at full speed. While dribbling the ball forward, you move your foot in front of and around the ball – starting from the inside and going outside in a circular motion. The move is counterclockwise if start with your left foot, or if you begin with the right it is a clockwise motion. This should keep your opponent guessing which way you’re actually going to go. Then, you explode into space in the opposite direction than expected.
What the move is:
The Single Step-over is a sometimes seen as a simple move, but it is great at keeping opponents on their toes and off guard. A player combines speed and balance and motion to confuse and misdirect. Your opponent won’t know what’s happening until you’re already past him.
What it feels like:
Sometimes a player feels like a spinning top or like his legs is loose and flowing in the wind. It can be a fun and liberating move.
Coach’s Notes:
Timing and speed are crucial. Slow step-overs are transparent and won’t catch a defender off guard. Execute then explode into space and leave the defender behind.
The Single Step-over
Move Nickname:
The Ortega Mega
The Player:
Diego Ortega
Player Notes:
Diego is a naturally skilled soccer player. He has great moves, can dribble, and is a very technical player. He doesn’t like to practice, but he has mastered the Single Step-over. Diego is very good at using this move in spontaneous and unexpected moments so defenders can’t get used to what he’s doing. One of his biggest strengths is he knows how to mix up his motions so opponents can’t track his previous plays and guess what he’s about to do.
Move Description:
The Single Step-over is a very useful move to get your opponent off balance while moving at full speed. While dribbling the ball forward, you move your foot in front of and around the ball – starting from the inside and going outside in a circular motion. The move is counterclockwise if start with your left foot, or if you begin with the right it is a clockwise motion. This should keep your opponent guessing which way you’re actually going to go. Then, you explode into space in the opposite direction than expected.
What the move is:
The Single Step-over is a sometimes seen as a simple move, but it is great at keeping opponents on their toes and off guard. A player combines speed and balance and motion to confuse and misdirect. Your opponent won’t know what’s happening until you’re already past him.
What it feels like:
Sometimes a player feels like a spinning top or like his legs is loose and flowing in the wind. It can be a fun and liberating move.
Coach’s Notes:
Timing and speed are crucial. Slow step-overs are transparent and won’t catch a defender off guard. Execute then explode into space and leave the defender behind.
Sheldon Johnson (The Sheldon Ring-A-Round)
Soccer strategy / tactic:
Rivelino step-over
Move Nickname:
The Sheldon Ring-a-round
The Player:
Sheldon Johnson
Player Notes:
Sheldon is an excellent athlete, has excellent body control, using it on the field as a substitute striker, or off the field where he practices yoga, martial arts, and is a cool hip hop dancer. The Rivelino step-over is a great move for Sheldon because it allows him to use his natural skills and dance moves, and it appeals to his showy and exciting personality.
Skill Description:
The Rivelino step-over is a foot fake around the ball with dribbling foot using a clockwise motion around the ball. The goal is to get defenders to watch your feet instead of the ball and get them guessing what you’re about to do when you already know where your next cut will lead.
What the skill is:
The Rivelino is an outside to inside step-over, where you finish by taking the ball in the opposite direction that the move was going in. It’s an effective and unexpected change of directions.
What it feels like:
For a defender the Rivelino is a tough move to predict and to defend. It’s hard to know which way they’re really going. For the player making the move, it’s fun and exciting and allows you a lot of freedom to make unexpected cuts or to improvise and add in additional moves.
Coach’s Notes:
A player must sell the Rivelino step-over – it must be convincing and get the defender fooled. It is important to move your whole body in the direction of the Rivelino and make it look like you’re about to go one way, just when you’re really about to go the other.
Rivelino step-over
Move Nickname:
The Sheldon Ring-a-round
The Player:
Sheldon Johnson
Player Notes:
Sheldon is an excellent athlete, has excellent body control, using it on the field as a substitute striker, or off the field where he practices yoga, martial arts, and is a cool hip hop dancer. The Rivelino step-over is a great move for Sheldon because it allows him to use his natural skills and dance moves, and it appeals to his showy and exciting personality.
Skill Description:
The Rivelino step-over is a foot fake around the ball with dribbling foot using a clockwise motion around the ball. The goal is to get defenders to watch your feet instead of the ball and get them guessing what you’re about to do when you already know where your next cut will lead.
What the skill is:
The Rivelino is an outside to inside step-over, where you finish by taking the ball in the opposite direction that the move was going in. It’s an effective and unexpected change of directions.
What it feels like:
For a defender the Rivelino is a tough move to predict and to defend. It’s hard to know which way they’re really going. For the player making the move, it’s fun and exciting and allows you a lot of freedom to make unexpected cuts or to improvise and add in additional moves.
Coach’s Notes:
A player must sell the Rivelino step-over – it must be convincing and get the defender fooled. It is important to move your whole body in the direction of the Rivelino and make it look like you’re about to go one way, just when you’re really about to go the other.
Hassan Lamari (The Lamari Freezer)
Soccer strategy / tactic:
The Roll Heel
Move Nickname:
The Lamari Freezer
The Player:
Hassan Lamari
Player Notes:
Hassan is very strong and plays a physical style of game. He can use this reputation to gain space from his opponents because few want to challenge him. This extra step allows Hassan to experiment with new moves. One move he is learning is the Roll Heel. While not a master of the move yet, Hassan is trying to round out his game so he can do more than just act as a team enforcer.
Skill Description:
The Roll Heel is a move where you show your defender a move to the inside, but really you’re planning on going towards your outside. You seemingly roll the ball towards your inside foot, but then halfway across you pull the ball back with your heel and push in the other way.
What the skill is:
The Roll Heel is a great fake to make it look like you’re about to go one way, but really head the other way, leaving your defender behind.
Skill Notes:
Repetition and practice will ensure your ability to use this at game speed. Defenders won’t know what hit them.
Coach’s Notes:
Keep your concentration and mind your spacing. Don’t let the ball get too far out in front of you or you won’t be able to reach it with your other foot. Keep your motions and your pace consistent until you’re ready to accelerate and burst the other way. Your opponent must not anticipate your change of motion.
The Roll Heel
Move Nickname:
The Lamari Freezer
The Player:
Hassan Lamari
Player Notes:
Hassan is very strong and plays a physical style of game. He can use this reputation to gain space from his opponents because few want to challenge him. This extra step allows Hassan to experiment with new moves. One move he is learning is the Roll Heel. While not a master of the move yet, Hassan is trying to round out his game so he can do more than just act as a team enforcer.
Skill Description:
The Roll Heel is a move where you show your defender a move to the inside, but really you’re planning on going towards your outside. You seemingly roll the ball towards your inside foot, but then halfway across you pull the ball back with your heel and push in the other way.
What the skill is:
The Roll Heel is a great fake to make it look like you’re about to go one way, but really head the other way, leaving your defender behind.
Skill Notes:
Repetition and practice will ensure your ability to use this at game speed. Defenders won’t know what hit them.
Coach’s Notes:
Keep your concentration and mind your spacing. Don’t let the ball get too far out in front of you or you won’t be able to reach it with your other foot. Keep your motions and your pace consistent until you’re ready to accelerate and burst the other way. Your opponent must not anticipate your change of motion.
Tommy Edwards (The Tommy Side Swipe)
Soccer strategy / tactic:
Single lunge
Move Nickname:
The Tommy Side Swipe
The Player:
Tommy Edwards
Player Notes:
Tommy is a hard worker, but not a very good player. Tommy comes to practice early and will stay late when he can so that he can get better. Right now he is fast and works on his footwork. He is very good at the lunge fake and performs it with a quickness that is hard to follow.
Move Description:
The Single Lunge is a way to shake your opponent in the open field. While running at full speed behind the ball, lunge one direction, faking you’re about to make a move or pass, then when you have your defender off balance shoot past them.
What the move is:
The Single Lunge is a quick fake that gets your defender out of position and moving backwards so you can take advantage. It’s not as complex as some other moves, but that doesn’t mean it can’t be effective.
What it feels like:
Some players like to strike a pose while they commit to their lunge. This can be fun and make it feel like you’re part of a still-framed action shot.
Coach’s Notes:
Simple moves can be great moves. Defenders might expect you to do more and will be thrown off balance because they didn’t see your move coming. Make your move fast and efficient and then move one. Don’t wait around or throw in extra footwork hoping to fool them – you probably already did; waiting around to find out just gives them the chance to recover. Sell the defender, get him out of position and then press past him.
Single lunge
Move Nickname:
The Tommy Side Swipe
The Player:
Tommy Edwards
Player Notes:
Tommy is a hard worker, but not a very good player. Tommy comes to practice early and will stay late when he can so that he can get better. Right now he is fast and works on his footwork. He is very good at the lunge fake and performs it with a quickness that is hard to follow.
Move Description:
The Single Lunge is a way to shake your opponent in the open field. While running at full speed behind the ball, lunge one direction, faking you’re about to make a move or pass, then when you have your defender off balance shoot past them.
What the move is:
The Single Lunge is a quick fake that gets your defender out of position and moving backwards so you can take advantage. It’s not as complex as some other moves, but that doesn’t mean it can’t be effective.
What it feels like:
Some players like to strike a pose while they commit to their lunge. This can be fun and make it feel like you’re part of a still-framed action shot.
Coach’s Notes:
Simple moves can be great moves. Defenders might expect you to do more and will be thrown off balance because they didn’t see your move coming. Make your move fast and efficient and then move one. Don’t wait around or throw in extra footwork hoping to fool them – you probably already did; waiting around to find out just gives them the chance to recover. Sell the defender, get him out of position and then press past him.
David Castro (The Castro Scorpion Strike)
Soccer strategy / tactic:
Higuita Scorpion Save
Move Nickname:
The Castro Scorpion Strike
The Player:
David Castro
Player Notes:
He is a hard worker, but lacks the skills start. He isn’t very vocal, but he is competitive and wants his teammates respect. As a substitute, David doesn’t get to play that often. When he does, he’s determined to make the most of it. He wants to impress his teammates and do something memorable. He’s been practicing one of the most memorable saves out there – the Higuita Scorpion Save.
Skill Description:
The Higuita Scorpion Save is a famous move where a goal keeper jumps forward, and moves his legs over his head in order to kick the ball with his heels in order to clear it.
What the skill is:
The move is inventive, entertaining and perfect for goalies that want to put on a show. The Higuita Scorpion Save has been described as a backwards bicycle kick. While it is exciting to watch, it is an unnecessary risk is not recommended for weaker goalies or to be use as a standard save style.
What it feels like:
Watching the Higuita Scorpion Save is like watching a moment of pure excitement. It will thrill the crowd and players on both teams will be impressed. One unfortunate effect is that it will make both teams lose focus on the game and be distracted by the intensity of the save.
Coach’s Notes:
Coach Baker does not recommend using the Higuita Scorpion Save – too many things can go wrong. Coach Baker knows that David is trying to have a good time and wants to do the right thing, but he stresses fundamental skills over specialty moves. One reason David doesn’t start is his failure to learn this lesson.
Higuita Scorpion Save
Move Nickname:
The Castro Scorpion Strike
The Player:
David Castro
Player Notes:
He is a hard worker, but lacks the skills start. He isn’t very vocal, but he is competitive and wants his teammates respect. As a substitute, David doesn’t get to play that often. When he does, he’s determined to make the most of it. He wants to impress his teammates and do something memorable. He’s been practicing one of the most memorable saves out there – the Higuita Scorpion Save.
Skill Description:
The Higuita Scorpion Save is a famous move where a goal keeper jumps forward, and moves his legs over his head in order to kick the ball with his heels in order to clear it.
What the skill is:
The move is inventive, entertaining and perfect for goalies that want to put on a show. The Higuita Scorpion Save has been described as a backwards bicycle kick. While it is exciting to watch, it is an unnecessary risk is not recommended for weaker goalies or to be use as a standard save style.
What it feels like:
Watching the Higuita Scorpion Save is like watching a moment of pure excitement. It will thrill the crowd and players on both teams will be impressed. One unfortunate effect is that it will make both teams lose focus on the game and be distracted by the intensity of the save.
Coach’s Notes:
Coach Baker does not recommend using the Higuita Scorpion Save – too many things can go wrong. Coach Baker knows that David is trying to have a good time and wants to do the right thing, but he stresses fundamental skills over specialty moves. One reason David doesn’t start is his failure to learn this lesson.