November 7, 2023
Mastering the Art of Ball Control
Soccer, often referred to as “the beautiful game,” is a sport that demands a wide range of skills from its players. Among these skills, ball control is perhaps one of the most crucial. A player with exceptional ball control can dictate the flow of the game, create scoring opportunities, and mesmerize spectators with their artistry.
The Basics of Ball Control
Before we dive into specific drills, it’s vital to understand the core principles of ball control. Fundamentally, ball control is about using your feet, thighs, chest, and head to manipulate the ball with precision, keeping it close to your body and under your command. Here are some key techniques:
1. First Touch
: Your first touch sets the tone for every subsequent action. Develop the ability to cushion the ball effortlessly upon receiving it, directing it where you want it to go. This can be achieved by using the inside of your foot, instep, or even the sole depending on the situation.
2. Dribbling
: Dribbling is a fundamental skill that requires close control over the ball while running. Use short, quick touches to keep the ball close to your feet. Vary your pace and direction to deceive opponents.
3. Passing
: Precision passing is vital in soccer. Learn to pass with the inside, outside, and instep of your foot to deliver the ball accurately to your teammates. The weight and accuracy of your pass are crucial.
4. Juggling
: Juggling helps improve your touch and balance. Start with simple juggles and gradually progress to more complex patterns, using your feet, thighs, and head.
Drills to Enhance Ball Control
1. The Wall Pass Drill
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2. Cone Dribbling Drill
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3. Keep-Up Challenge
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4. Passing Accuracy Drill
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5. One-Touch Passing
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6. Pressure Dribbling
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7. Combination Play
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Mastering the art of soccer ball control is a journey that requires dedication, practice, and a deep understanding of the fundamental techniques. By consistently working on these techniques and incorporating the suggested drills into your training regimen, you can elevate your ball control skills to the level of a world-class player. Remember, ball control is not just about technique; it’s about developing the confidence to express yourself creatively on the field and make a significant impact on the game.
For more information on how Sogility can increase your touch on the ball visit sogility.net.
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Sogility St. Louis is excited to announce the official launch of the Legacy Club, an exclusive, limited-membership program built for families and athletes who are fully committed to long-term development and want lifetime access to everything Sogility offers. The Legacy Club is designed for those who view soccer development as a long-term investment, offering access to world-class training resources, expert coaching, and cutting-edge technology. With a one-time investment, members secure lifelong training opportunities, exclusive benefits, and substantial long-term savings. Legacy Club Membership Benefits: Lifetime Training Access — Up to 16 training sessions per month, every month, for life. Full Facility Access — Unlimited use of Sogility’s advanced technology, equipment, and training spaces during business hours. Athlete Development Program — Structured speed, agility, and strength training to support overall athletic performance. Exclusive Discounts — 25% off all camps, clinics, and training classes, extended to immediate family members. Private Event Rental — Host one personal or team event each year in our private party/event space. VIP Event Access — Priority invites to tournaments, showcases, and special guest sessions. Program Details: One-Time Investment: $5,000 Availability: Limited to 25 total members at the St. Louis location Enrollment is now open, but spots are extremely limited. Once the 25 Legacy Club memberships are claimed, enrollment will close. If you have questions or would like to reserve your spot, please contact the Sogility St. Louis team directly at infostl@sogility.net or 636-206-3780 .
Sogility is excited to announce a new partnership with St. Louis Soccer Camps, aligning two player-first organizations committed to helping athletes reach their full potential. Built around shared values of intentional training, technical growth, and long-term development, this collaboration connects one of the region’s most respected camp platforms with a technology-driven training environment focused on high-rep sessions, real-time feedback, and smarter development at every level. As Sogility expands across the Midwest, the partnership with Billiken Soccer Camps reinforces the demand for more modern, intentional approaches to player development. From youth athletes to college-bound competitors, the goal is the same: to help players train with purpose, build confidence, and prepare for what’s next, all in line with Sogility’s mission to Train Different. Get Better. “This partnership just makes sense. The Billiken Soccer Camps staff has a long-standing reputation for building players the right way, on and off the field. Everything we’ve built at Sogility is designed to complement that approach. Together, we’re creating more opportunities for players to develop with purpose and grow through the game.” - Jess Semnacher, General Manager, Sogility St. Louis Players and camp participants will have access to Sogility St. Louis’s technology-driven soccer training, including the Technical Soccer Zone (TSZ), TechTouch, and Circuit Training; tools designed to improve decision-making, refine technique, and meet the physical demands of the modern game. The partnership also includes youth programming and community outreach that creates meaningful connections between college players and the next generation. “Sogility brings a modern, player-first approach to training that really complements what we emphasize at camp. The technology, the pace, the environment, it’s all designed to push players forward. We’re always looking for ways to help young athletes take the next step, and this is a fantastic resource to support that journey.” - Kevin Kalish, Director, Billiken Soccer Camps “We’re really excited to work with Sogility. It’s a huge advantage for players to have access to high-quality training year-round. It gives them more opportunities to grow, compete, and fall in love with the process. This partnership strengthens the foundation we’re building for the next generation.” - Katie Shields, Katie Shields Soccer Academy “We’re extremely excited to have Sogility involved with Billiken Soccer Camps. It gives players the opportunity to train year-round, not just during camp, but in a consistent, high-quality environment that supports their development and strengthens the St. Louis soccer community. Getting 300, 400, even 500 touches in a short session is an unbelievable opportunity and that kind of repetition can truly transform a player’s game.” - Kevin Stoll, Billiken Soccer Camps This partnership is part of Sogility’s broader mission to provide smarter development, stronger mentorship, and more connected pathways, from first touches to the next level and beyond. About Sogility Sogility delivers smarter soccer training through a combination of technical skill work, neurocognitive development, and data-backed performance analysis. With facilities across the Midwest, Sogility is redefining what it means to Train Different. Get Better. www.sogility.net About Billiken Soccer Camps Billiken Soccer Camps are designed to provide a competitive and enjoyable environment where players can improve their technical skills and tactical understanding of the game. Operated by the Saint Louis University men’s and women’s soccer coaching staff, the camps offer a variety of formats, including youth day camps, ID clinics, and team training, giving players of all levels the opportunity to learn from experienced college coaches and elevate their game. www.billikensoccercamps.com
Westfield, IN – Sogility, the leader in technology-driven soccer training, is proud to announce the continuation of its partnership with Hoosier Army , the Indiana University Men’s Soccer alumni team competing in The Soccer Tournament (TST) . After serving as the team’s primary sponsor in 2024, Sogility returns in 2025 to once again power the Hoosier Army with cutting-edge training and performance support. The partnership brings together two forces committed to high-level player development, one rooted in tradition and legacy, the other in innovation and advancement. Hoosier Army, composed of storied IU alumni, represents one of the most successful collegiate soccer programs in the country. Backed by Sogility’s advanced training tools and systems, they enter this year’s TST with momentum and a shared mission: to compete, inspire, and grow the game. “Sogility has become a valuable resource for players in our program and across the youth landscape. The technology, training environment, and staff support real development and that’s exactly what young players need to prepare for the next level. We’re proud to partner with a group that shares our commitment to excellence and player growth.” - Todd Yeagley, Head Coach, Indiana University Men’s Soccer “At Sogility, we’re committed to delivering consistent, high-level development environments, whether that’s for youth athletes or elite alumni like the Hoosier Army. This partnership is a great example of how our model scales: the same technology and methodology that fuel our day-to-day training are now supporting one of the most respected programs in college soccer history. It’s a proud moment and a clear reflection of what Sogility is building.” - Jimmy Carson, Chief Operating Officer, Sogility As part of the partnership, Sogility will provide training support, performance tech, and promotional collaboration leading into and throughout the tournament. Fans can expect exclusive behind-the-scenes content, activation opportunities, and a deeper look into how innovation fuels tradition. For more information about Sogility and its training philosophy, visit www.sogility.net or follow along @sogility and @hoosierarmy on social media. About Sogility Sogility delivers smarter soccer training through a combination of technical skill work, neurocognitive development, and data-backed performance analysis. With facilities across the Midwest, Sogility is redefining what it means to Train Different. Get Better. About Hoosier Army Hoosier Army is the official TST team made up of Indiana University Men’s Soccer alumni. Representing decades of collegiate dominance and a legacy of national championships, the team embodies the culture and competitive spirit of Hoosier soccer.