Try a Corner Kick
Practice taking corner kicks by setting up target zones, experimenting with angles and spin, and measuring accuracy to learn control and teamwork.
Step-by-step guide to try a corner kick
Step 1
Gather all the materials and take them to the corner of a soccer field or your backyard.
Step 2
Use tape or chalk to draw the corner arc where you will place the ball.
Step 3
Put three target zones in the penalty area with cones or socks labeled near post mid zone and far post.
Step 4
Place the ball on the corner arc.
Step 5
Choose one target zone to aim for and say its name out loud.
Step 6
Take one corner kick using the inside of your foot to curl the ball toward the chosen target.
Step 7
Measure the distance from the ball’s landing spot to the center of the target zone with the measuring tape.
Step 8
Write the measured distance and note “hit” or “miss” in your notebook.
Step 9
Repeat Steps 4–8 four more times so you have five attempts aimed at the same target.
Step 10
Change your foot contact to the other side of the ball to add spin in the opposite direction.
Step 11
Take three corner kicks using the new spin while aiming at any target.
Step 12
Measure and record the results from those three kicks in your notebook.
Step 13
Invite a teammate to practice attacking the best corners while you take the kicks to practice teamwork.
Step 14
Compare your notebook notes to find which angle and spin gave the best accuracy.
Step 15
Share a photo or description of your corner kick practice and what you learned on DIY.org
Final steps
You're almost there! Complete all the steps, bring your creation to life, post it, and conquer the challenge!
Help!?
What can I use if I don't have cones, tape, or a measuring tape for this corner kick activity?
Use rolled-up socks or water bottles as the three target cones (Step 3), draw the corner arc with chalk or a stick in the dirt (Step 2), and measure distances with a length of string with knots or a phone measuring app instead of a measuring tape when recording in your notebook (Steps 6–9).
My kicks aren't curling toward the chosen target—what should I try to fix this?
Check that you are striking the ball with the inside of your foot as instructed in Step 6, plant your non-kicking foot beside the ball, strike slightly off-center to create spin, and reduce power before repeating your five attempts to improve curl and accuracy (Steps 4–8).
How can I adapt this activity for younger children or older players?
For younger kids, move the corner arc closer, use large towels or socks as wider target zones, and reduce attempts to three while skipping the opposite-spin kicks in Step 10, whereas older players can increase distance, add a goalkeeper or defender in Step 12, and keep detailed measurements in the notebook (Steps 2, 3, 10, 12, 13).
What are some ways to extend or personalize the corner kick practice after completing the basic steps?
Record video of each kick to analyze spin and landing, create a point system for 'hit' versus 'miss' to track improvement, have the invited teammate practice attacking the best corners from Step 12, and share your findings and photos on DIY.org as suggested at the end of the activity (Steps 12, 13, final instruction).
Watch videos on how to try a corner kick
Taking Corner Kicks: Positions, Strategy and Pro Tips
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Taking Corner Kicks: Positions, Strategy and Pro Tips
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How to Perform a Successful Corner Kick
Facts about soccer skills for kids
⭐ Famous set-piece specialists like David Beckham practiced corners and crosses relentlessly to make them reliable scoring opportunities.
🎯 A small percentage of corner kicks directly become goals in pro soccer, so practicing accuracy and target zones gives teams an important edge!
🌪️ Adding spin to the ball bends its path in the air (that's the Magnus effect), which helps you curl corners into tight target zones.
📐 Angles are everything — changing your approach and where you aim the ball can fool defenders and open up scoring lanes.
🤝 Corner kicks are teamwork in motion: timed runs, blockers, and simple signals help the kicker place the ball where teammates can win it.
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What materials do I need for a corner kick practice at home or on the field?
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What are the benefits of practicing corner kicks for kids?
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