The position where a player is most commonly required to make a defensive header is center-back. However, even a striker may be called upon to do so, if he is back defending a corner for instance. So it is important that whatever position you play in, the art of defensive heading is mastered.
Very young players (and some older ones!) can be reluctant to head the ball for fear of getting hurt. They will often close their eyes and let it land on their head, rather than attacking the ball.
It is therefore helpful, if you are teaching a youngster how to head, to practice with a soft ball at first.
Most defensive headers are performed with the aid of a jump, but if unopposed, they can be made from a standing position.
This step-by-step guide shows you how to perform the classic defensive header when jumping.
