Soccer tennis is a great way to develop skills for the game of soccer.
Two, three, four or more can play. The ideal sides are 1 on 1 or 2 on 2.
A sturdy or firm net approximately 30 to 36 inches high is ideal. We like benches or 2×6 pieces of wood placed on stands to resemble a net because the ball plays of of the net and adds a new challenge or tactic. Set the field up on grass or any place there is room.
For 1 on 1 the field can be 6 yards wide by 8-10 yards deep. 3 touches and one bounce per side in any combination to try to return a ball played to each player.
For 2 v2 the real challenge is to require both players to touch the ball befor it is returned. Three touches and one bounce in any combination per side.
For players not familiar with the game or not proficient in juggling, try to rally with your partner or opponent until you get the hang of it and become more adept at the skills needed to play.
Play with smaller balls like a #3 or a brasilian futebol (www.brasilianfutebol.com). The smaller ball increases focus and helps develop eye-foot coordination and dexterity. The brasilian futebol is well weighted to approximate the feel of a reg #5 and is bouncy so players develop a soft first touch.
Playing soccer tennis is a fun way to develop the skills and the skills players aquire while playing it will easily translate into the real game.
