Dribbling in Soccer is Not about Your Own Glory

by Michael
(Chicago)

We all love to dribble when playing soccer. I mean, performing a cool move while hearing the crowd clapping their hands is one of the greatest things you can experience as player. But, many players tend to complicate their dribbling which results in irritated teammates and loosed scoring chances.

I used to be one of these players. I used to first dribble my opponent, get around him and then wait for him to catch up again. I thought that I was doing my team a big favor and I could not understand why my teammates were so angry at me all the time.

So, one day, the coach told that he wants to discuss something with me. The first thing he asked me was; Michael, do you consider yourself being a good dribbler? Of course, I said, why should I have any doubts about? Well, said my coach, you have obviously a lot of talent in you but your dribbling is completely inefficient and currently I can’t let you continue playing on that way.

I have decided to put you on the bench and give your place to another player. I was completely shocked and I didn’t understand a thing. After a minute or so I managed to say “What do I need to do in order to take my place back”? The coach said; dribble for the team and not for your own glory.

So, next game the coach gave me about 30 minutes and I started to play like I used. However, I heard my coach screaming; Michael, remember what I said. Suddenly, I thought that maybe I should dribble my opponent only once and then pass the ball. Considered and done, I dribbled my opponent, passed the ball and moved to a free area. I continued on that way during the whole game and I even managed to score 2 goals, which was a new personal record.

What I am trying to say with my story is that you should dribble but not for your own glory, instead do it for the team and you soon reach higher goals.

/Michael