Step 5: Learn Receiving and First Touch

Step 5 of 12

Learn Receiving and First Touch

Use the first touch to prepare the next action. Adjust to the speed, direction, and height of the pass.

Safety first: Use a clear practice area, age-appropriate equipment, and adult supervision. Stop if anything hurts. Adapt activities to the child and local youth rules.

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Receive a gentle ground pass

Age: adapt to the child · Level: beginner · Duration: about 5–10 minutes

Goal: Cushion a slow pass with the inside of the foot and keep it nearby.

Equipment and setup: Partners pass from 4 yards apart on a flat, clear surface.

Receive a gentle ground pass practice diagramPASSCUSHIONOPEN SPACE
Receive softly, then take the first touch into space

Practice steps

  1. Look over the shoulder before the pass when safe.
  2. Meet the ball with a relaxed foot.
  3. Draw the foot back slightly at contact to cushion it.

Coaching cue: ““Soft foot, bring it under control.””

Make it easier: Use a slower roll and stop the ball fully.

Try a challenge: Receive with the weaker foot, then pass back with two touches.

Fun game: Partner control count: one point for a touch that stays within one step.

▶ Watch video demonstrations

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First touch into open space

Age: adapt to the child · Level: beginner · Duration: about 5–10 minutes

Goal: Direct the ball away from pressure toward a clear area.

Equipment and setup: Create a 5-by-5-yard square with two exit gates.

First touch into open space practice diagramPASSCUSHIONOPEN SPACE
Receive softly, then take the first touch into space

Practice steps

  1. Partner calls a gate as the pass travels.
  2. Open the hips toward that gate.
  3. Take the first touch into space, then dribble through.

Coaching cue: ““See the space before the ball arrives.””

Make it easier: Use a stationary ball and choose the gate first.

Try a challenge: Add a passive defender who closes one gate.

Fun game: Find the open gate after each pass; rotate caller and receiver.

▶ Watch video demonstrations

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Receive, turn, and pass

Age: adapt to the child · Level: beginner · Duration: about 5–10 minutes

Goal: Combine a controlled first touch with a simple turn and pass.

Equipment and setup: Three cones form a 5-yard triangle with one partner passing in.

Receive, turn, and pass practice diagramPASSCUSHIONOPEN SPACE
Receive softly, then take the first touch into space

Practice steps

  1. Check the space before receiving.
  2. Cushion the ball across the body.
  3. Turn toward the next cone and pass accurately.

Coaching cue: ““Check, receive, turn, play.””

Make it easier: Remove the turn and pass back.

Try a challenge: Use a different turn on each repetition.

Fun game: Complete a smooth receive-turn-pass sequence five times each.

▶ Watch video demonstrations

Opens YouTube search results for this lesson. Choose a safe, age-appropriate demonstration with a coach or parent.