Parent guide · Coach Fran Lopez

Build the chance before the shot

When a player asks to improve finishing, I want to see the whole chance. The run, the first touch and the decision can matter as much as the strike itself.

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What should a striker work on?

A striker may need a more useful starting position, a change of movement before a pass or a first touch that leaves a shooting option. Another player may reach good positions but rush the finish. We'll choose the focus after listening to the player and seeing the action.

An example is a forward moving across the front of a defender. We can look at when the run starts, where the pass arrives and whether the player needs a touch before shooting. A different delivery may require a different decision. The purpose is to help the player recognize the situation.

Finishing under match pressure

Unopposed repetition can help explain a technical correction. We can then add an opponent, a moving pass or the option to play a teammate in. That creates a decision about when to shoot and when a pass is more useful.

Pressure should suit the player's ability and the session goal. We don't need every repetition at maximum pace. The player should understand what changed and why a choice worked or didn't work. Goals in a drill don't guarantee goals in a match.

Shooting technique and the less-used foot

We can look at balance, the supporting foot, contact and the direction of the first touch in the context of the finish. A player learning to use their less-used foot may begin with a manageable distance and a clear target before adding movement.

There isn't one finish for every chance. The angle, available time and nearby players affect the choice. This is technical soccer coaching, not a strength program or a promise of a harder shot. Receiving and looking before the ball arrives can also shape the chance.

Choose a useful finishing session

A private lesson can isolate a specific receiving or striking habit. A small group adds teammates, opposition and decisions. A 90-minute position clinic can bring compatible players together around a finishing focus, subject to confirmed enrollment and location.

Mesa and Gilbert are the primary hubs; ask about a practical option from your city. Tell Fran the player's age, experience and the kind of chance they find difficult. Boys and girls can inquire without needing a separate gender-specific program. No clinic date, goalkeeper-specialist coaching or guaranteed outcome is implied.

Start with a conversation

Tell me about your player

Tell Fran about your player. Build a clear plan for what comes next.

Share your city, your player's age and the best way to reach you. Fran will discuss training goals, availability and a practical location before an appointment is confirmed.

West Valley training locations (Avondale, Surprise, Peoria) available upon request for an additional travel fee.

Please have a parent or guardian submit this form for a youth player. There is no payment required to send an evaluation request.

Let's talk about your player

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West Valley training locations (Avondale, Surprise, Peoria) available upon request for an additional travel fee.

Ask about training