How to Kick a Goal Kick in Soccer

Overview

Goal kicks are a form of restart in a soccer game. They are awarded when the ball crosses the goal line and was last touched by the attacking team. The goalkeeper is usually responsible for kicking a goal kick, but by rule, any player is allowed to take it. When kicking a goal kick, you should have the ability to keep possession for your team. It is also required that you have the ability to get height and distance on the kick. Developing your goal-kicking ability will avoid creating costly turnovers in your team's defensive area.

Step 1

Use the correct technique when kicking a goal kick in a soccer game. You should pant your standing foot next to the ball and contact the ball with your laces. Your kicking toes must be pointing downwards to ensure good contact with the ball. Goal kicking requires you to strike the ball low, slightly below the center line. This allows you to get your foot under the ball and increase height and distance.

Step 2

Follow through fully after you have kicked a goal kick. The follow through has an impact on both the distance and accuracy. Extending your leg fully and swinging your arm through will supplement the power of your kick. Ensure your foot points to the intended target of your kick after the follow through. If you foot swings through and goes off to the side is sometimes the natural motion, your goal kick may carry out of bounds and the opposition team will be awarded possession.

Step 3

Ensure your goal kick is effective by keeping possession of your team. Even if your goal kick gets distance, you can find yourself under pressure if the opposition wins possession at half way and begins an attack. Communicate with your teammates if you would like them to move and provide a target for you. Have a plan in mind as to where your kick is going. You can aim for a teammate's head or send the ball into space for him to run to.

Step 4

Develop your strength and flexibility to improve your goal kick. Even when using perfect technique, your range and distance will be dictated by your physical leg strength and flexibility. Flexibility allows you to add inches to your follow through to help the ball carry. Physical strength creates more power when driving the ball and ongoing strength training can increase the distance of your kicks during a soccer game.

Step 5

Know the rules that impact you taking a goal kick. The ball should be placed on the line of the 6-yard box. You are permitted to take a kick from anywhere along the line. Only the goalkeeper and the goal kicker are permitted inside the 18-yard box when the kick is taken. If this rule is broken, the kick is retaken. The ball must leave the 18-yard box before being touched by another player from either team.