Soccer Volleying Guide

Though volleying a soccer ball isn’t the most common way of finishing, it is still a very important one.  Many players think they have mastered the skill, but often overlook that you need to be able to do it as well as you can shot.

This guide will teach you how to successfully perform every type of soccer volley:

Standard Soccer Volley

The standard soccer volley is when you strike it in the air.  You can use the inside of your foot or the laces like you would strike a ball.  Steps to execute:

1.  Prepare for the ball.  

Make sure you are balanced and ready to adjust quickly.  Usually you will be making a run into the box.  Be aware that the ball can be deflected by other players.  If you are ready to move in any direction, you should still be able to volley most deflections.

2.  Put your place foot down and your shooting foot up.

This should happen in a split second, right before the ball reaches you.

3.  Strike the volley

Make sure that you keep the volley low and accurate.  Power is usually unnecessary for a standard volley because you are usually close to the goal.  The main thing is redirecting the ball on target.

Good volleying requires excellent timing.  Keep practicing and this will come.

Half Volleys

Even experienced players constantly mess up half-volleys, making them seem hard.  In reality, half-volleys are relatively simple once you know the proper techniques.

1.  Plant your place foot. 

2.  Swing your shooting leg back.

3.  Wait for the ball to fall down. 

If you strike the ball while it is falling, you should never hit the ball over the net.

4.  Volley

Perform half-volleys like you would a shot (look at the soccer shooting guide), and make sure that you learn over the ball.

All these tips will prevent your half-volleys from flying over the net.  Practice volleys constantly and you will have a great skill in your arsenal.