Cushion Heading in Pairs
Per the FA Heading Guidance (2024 update, applicable for the 2026–27 framework), heading practice is reintroduced at U12 with strict volume limits (no more than 1 session per week including heading; max 5 headers per player per session at U12).
◆Why this drill works
Per the FA Heading Guidance (2024 update, applicable for the 2026–27 framework), heading practice is reintroduced at U12 with strict volume limits (no more than 1 session per week including heading; max 5 headers per player per session at U12). This drill is the canonical low-impact technique introduction: cushioned tosses to a partner who returns with a directed header. No jumping, no contested aerials, no power. The goal is technique establishment — head meeting ball with eyes open, neck and shoulders engaged, attacking the ball not flinching from it. Players who don't want to head can pair off and play first-touch volleys instead — never compulsory.
▦The drill in three phases
▶How to run it
- Players in pairs, 4 yards apart. One ball per pair.
- Tosser: gentle underarm toss aiming at partner's forehead — slow and high.
- Header: feet planted, eyes open, head meets ball at the hairline. Neck firm, shoulders square.
- Direct the header back into the tosser's hands.
- 5 headers each, then swap. Total 5 headers per player per session — that's the limit.
- Players who don't want to head: pair off and do volley first-touch instead.
✓Equipment checklist
✦Coaching points
Praise when you see
- Scanning before the ball arrives to know where to take it
- Cushioned touch that kills the pace of the ball
- Receiving on the half-turn to play forward quickly
Correct when you see
- Stopping the ball dead when a directional touch was needed
- Heavy first touch letting the ball run away
★Kit for this drill — top picks compared
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