Many people incorrectly mix the words soccer skill and soccer technique. Skill refers to a player's ability to succeed in using a particular technique(s) during real game situations. On the other hand, technique is the player's ability to perform a specific mechanical motion such as a kick, trap or throw. The mark of an experienced player is having smooth, efficient mechanics and the ability to execute a succession of techniques in one elegant motion.

Sound soccer techniques can be developed through repetition, observation or visualization. With regular training and practice of a specific movement or technique, the player builds confidence and the target motion becomes native to him.
Another type of "training" one should consider is watching quality soccer games on TV (or better yet in person). Nearly all of today's stars admit that they have once learned by observing better players. Try to absorb how footballers move when executing a particular technique.
Visualization of soccer techniques is a radical new methods used to verifiy and develop a player's skills.

The following sections on the left break down the fundamental mechanics of different soccer techniques or the skills most frequently used in the game.