3 short technique videos, each with a challenge players can repeat to measure their progress.
By Terry Barton, founder of The Coaching Manual and 15 years in coach education · Updated October 2026
Learning the correct heading technique early is vital. Good technique helps reduce the risk of injury when players reach an age and game format where heading is allowed.
For younger players, use a sponge ball or a balloon. The important thing is the technique, not the ball, so they build the right habits long before heading a real football. Always follow your national association's heading guidance for each age group.
Watch the technique, teach the coaching points, then set the challenge.
Learning the right weight and accuracy so players can pass with their head is simple to teach and a valuable tool in the modern game.
Ask any top striker what they try to do when attacking crosses: wherever possible, they head the ball down.
The key words are height and distance. When defending, you want the ball as far from your penalty box as possible.
Every technique and challenge lives in The Coaching Manual app. Players record their scores, coaches see who is improving, and clubs get the whole programme alongside sessions and season plans.
