Ronaldo Chop. Scissors. Rainbow Flick. Sombrero Flick. These soccer tricks may seem complex at first, but they become much easier when broken down into steps.
One of the most visually impressive tricks, Around the World, involves juggling the ball into the air with one foot, then swinging that same foot in a full circular motion around the ball before continuing to juggle – without letting it touch the ground. This trick can be done using either the inside or outside of the foot, depending on preference and control.
Step One: Master the Juggle
Begin by juggling the ball on the tip of your toe with minimal spin. The goal is to maintain balance and full control over the ball. A stable and consistent juggle will set the foundation for executing the trick smoothly.
Step Two: The Circular Motion
As you juggle, flick the ball slightly upward and to the side with a controlled touch. As it rises, bring your leg around the ball in a circular motion. Be mindful of excessive spin – too much rotation will cause the ball to fly off unpredictably, making the trick nearly impossible to complete. The goal here is to maintain control while executing the full motion.
Step Three: The Hop
To give yourself more air time, hop slightly with your non-dominant foot. This small bounce helps create the necessary lift while keeping your movements fluid. It is important to stay balanced—losing stability could result in either a) rolling your ankle or b) dropping the ball before completing the trick.
Step Four: Inside vs. Outside Around the World
There are two variations of Around the World:
- If you touch the ball with the outside of your foot before starting the circular motion, the ball will naturally arc outward, creating an outside Around the World.
- If you use the inside of your foot, the ball will stay closer to your body, resulting in an inside Around the World.
The choice between these two variations depends on personal preference. Some players are able to execute both with practice, while others find one method more comfortable than the other.
Tips for Mastering Around the World
To refine the trick and improve consistency, keep these key points in mind:
- Start with your dominant foot. Going slow at first helps build confidence and control.
- Keep the ball close. When juggling, minimize spin and maintain control to set up the trick properly.
- Focus on timing. The circular motion must be completed before the ball drops too far, or regaining control will be difficult.
- Stay relaxed. Your leg should wrap around the ball naturally as it rises. Tensing up or making the movement too rigid will make execution more challenging.
With patience and practice, Around the World can become a go-to trick in any player’s arsenal, adding flair and finesse to their juggling skills.
