Putting the ball in the net is the goal of soccer. That's the way to win games. But most soccer time is spent in practice. The soccer practice drill is the place for developing individual soccer skills, fitness, and teamwork. Winning teams need players with strong soccer skills plus speed and stamina as well.

Many coaches emphasize the game playing and not the individual skills. Some players are more gifted than others and more skilled. The team is often built around those best players. But the individual players must all have the soccer skills for the team to do it's best.

For new young soccer players, just moving around is all that is necessary for a good workout. As players grow and mature, soccer drills must target increased fitness. Physical toughness requires high level fitness. Use part of practice for fitness drills.

Part of fitness must include conditioning to prevent injuries. Development of the leg muscles helps prevent knee injuries. Also training in how to turn and how to maintain proper alignment of the legs can prevent many injuries. Injuries are expensive and end many soccer careers. Proper fitness training can prevent many injuries.

The soccer practice drill is where individual soccer skills are taught and developed. Team success depends on individual player performance. Pick the right drills and teach the individual skills and your players will have fun and keep enjoying soccer. Your reward is watching players improve ... plus more balls in the net.