01/08/2026
Coaching youth girls footballers how to run with the ball can be challenging. It is important to keep the coaching points simple and repeat them often.
The key factors are:
Head up – Encourage players to look up regularly so they can see teammates, defenders, and space, not just the ball.
Small touches – Use light touches to keep the ball close and under control, especially in tight areas.
Bigger touches into space – When there is open space ahead, take a bigger touch and accelerate, using explosive power, to cover ground quickly.
Use both feet – Develop confidence dribbling with both the left and right foot.
Use different parts of the foot – Mainly the laces for speed and the inside/outside of the foot for changing direction.
Body position – Stay balanced with knees slightly bent and use your body to shield the ball from defenders.
Change of pace – Slow down to control the ball, then explode into space to beat opponents.
Decision making – Know when to continue running with the ball and when to pass or shoot.
At Blurton Reds Sapphires, we create an environment where youth girls footballers feel confident to learn, experiment and express themselves. When players know that mistakes are part of learning, they become braver, more creative and develop faster.
One Team. One Family. One Sapphire Standard.
