Position 101: What Role Best Fits Your Player’s Strengths?

Different people play different roles in soccer. Some players excel as talented forwards, while others are dynamic defenders. Some are even meant to assist in the most literal sense. To determine where players are most likely to excel, consider the following skill guide:

🧤Goalie

The goalie often needs to stay calm under pressure, someone who knows when to be patient and when to attack. Overall, the best goalies have the following skills:

• Strong reaction times and quick reflexes

• Fast hands and catching ability

• Good distribution instincts

• Strong communication and leadership skills

• Powerful leg for goal kicks and punts

🛡️Defender

Different areas of the defense need different skill sets, which can be outlined as follows:

Center Back

• Tackling skills and interception abilities

• Composure and good decision-making

• Aerial strength

• Strong passing

Right or Left Fullback

• Strong stamina

• Good one-on-one defending

• Tactical awareness

• Strong crossing and passing abilities

Right or Left Wingback

• Endurance

• Speed

• Quick recovery times

• Strong crossing and passing abilities
  
  

🎽Midfielder

Similar to the defense, various areas of the midfield require various skill sets. These can be broken down as follows:

Defensive Midfielder

• A good understanding of positioning

• Tackling skills

• The ability to read the game

• Accurate passing, including short passes

Center Midfield

• Endurance and speed

• A wide passing range

• Excellent ball control

• An understanding of strategy

Attacking Midfielder

• Creativity and inventiveness

• Accurate dribbling

• Wide shooting range

• The ability to control the ball in tight spaces
  
  

⚡Forwards

Forwards are often praised for their speed, but they’re more than just a quick face. They also need the following skills:

• Keeping cool during scoring opportunities

• Passing, crossing, and shooting accuracy

• Strong dribbling and one-on-one skills

• Good off-the-ball movement and aerial ability
  
  

👟 Quick Summary Takeaway

- DO: Field players in positions most appropriate for their skillset.

- DON'T: Be cautious about moving kids around until they find their place. 

Bottom line: Not every player excels in every position. Assigning players to roles that best suit their talents gives them the best chance to succeed. 

At PTJ Shoes, we aim to empower players of all levels to embrace their individuality and play confidently. We are proud to be a brand built on passion, motivated by family values, and crafted for the next generation of game-changers. Check out our top collection of cleats here.