Why Shoulder Checks Matter: A Small Skill with a Big Impact

Watching your child play soccer, you may notice the difference between those who react and those who anticipate. The secret? A simple move: the shoulder check.

This week’s Skill of the Week — “Shoulder Check & Turn” — teaches players how to stay aware of their surroundings before receiving the ball. It’s the kind of movement you’ll see in top-level games, yet it’s easy to start practicing even at age 5.

What is a Shoulder Check?

A shoulder check is a quick glance over the shoulder to see what’s happening behind you before receiving the ball. It helps kids:

• Know if they have space

• Make quicker decisions

• Turn with confidence

• Stay calm under pressure

  
  

Easy to Train – Even at Home

All you need is:

• A ball

• A parent, sibling, or a wall to pass against

• A small space like a Gaga ball court or driveway

We used two locations this week — a regular field and a Gaga court — to show how you can level up the challenge. Want to try it? Visit the printable drill breakdown linked below!

Why It Matters

This small movement changes how a player sees the game. It builds awareness, confidence, and helps kids play smarter — not just harder.

We break it into:

• Easy: Look left/right + turn

• Intermediate: Check, call, receive

• Pro: Check under pressure and pass

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Download & Practice

➡️ Get the full printable Shoulder Check & Turn Drill Here

Includes: Easy–Intermediate–Pro levels + tracking chart

Let your child learn to check, turn, and shine on the field.