Today was pretty cool because I began integrating cones into my practice. If I’m going to make FC Supra (and play in the CPL), I need to be ready for drills. And cones are a big part of them. They help you prepare for real gameplay since they essentially simulate opposing players, albeit in fixed positions. When placed close enough, they’re incredibly difficult to navigate (i.e., go around)… at quick speeds, that is.
In truth, I always found dribbling to be significantly easier in actual games. The logic is simple; for one, opposing players move with you (or, in other words, they shadow your movements)… so, greater directional shifts are less frequent. Secondly, since humans are naturally responsive, you can directionally confuse them by faking. A cone won’t budge.
The result? I was tired, particularly in the initial minutes of practice. But, like most other training tactics, I got used to it. That being said, it was just the start. I’ll continue to use them with every practice, but I don’t have much time.
Tomorrow, I’ll be taking some time to ponder my registration. I mean, there’s absolutely nothing stopping me (and I have nothing to lose), but I do hope the organization will take me seriously (based on my age, and all). I know that if I can tap into my instincts, my playing will do enough talking to keep the scouts interested. Still, I’m 46, my name isn’t Romario (although Mario is in the name), and I haven’t played a competitive league match in approximately two decades. Okay, I’ll stop. As I might have mentioned, if I see myself as too old for the team, what will they think?! I know I’ve got a good 5 years or more of pro soccer in me. Now, it’s just time to show it.