Success in soccer often comes down to the small details—the little things that separate the average from the elite. One of the simplest yet most overlooked habits that can elevate a player’s game is showing up early to practice. Many players believe that arriving right on time is enough, but those who show up early, ready to work, gain an undeniable edge.
The Extra 1,000 Touches
Imagine this: if you arrive just 20-30 minutes early to every practice, using that time wisely, you could get in an extra 1,000 touches on the ball before training even begins. Those touches add up over a season, a year, or a career. While other players are casually warming up or still arriving, you’re sharpening your first touch, refining your dribbling, or getting extra shots on goal. That dedication compounds over time, creating a massive advantage.
Most Players Settle—Don’t Be Most Players
The reality is that most players show up right on time—or worse, late. They think that simply attending practice is enough to improve. But the best players don’t just participate in training; they maximize their opportunities. Coaches notice who comes early and who stays late. Teammates respect those who are fully committed.
If you want to stand out, start by consistently being the first one on the field, ball at your feet, already putting in work.
The Champions’ Mindset
Great players—whether in soccer, basketball, or any other sport—have one thing in common: they don’t wait to be told to work hard. They take responsibility for their own development. Showing up early is a simple yet powerful sign of discipline and self-motivation.
Think about the top professionals in the game. Do you think Lionel Messi, Cristiano Ronaldo, or Kevin De Bruyne just show up on time and rely only on scheduled team training? No chance. They build extra training into their routine, finding every possible way to improve.
How to Make the Most of Extra Time
If you’re going to show up early, don’t waste that time. Have a plan. Here are a few ways to maximize those extra minutes before practice:
- Technical Work – Get in 500-1,000 extra touches: dribbling, juggling, passing against a wall.
- Finishing – If the goal is open, take extra shots. Work on striking with both feet.
- Passing & First Touch – Grab a teammate and do quick one-touch passing drills.
- Speed & Agility – Do ladder drills, quick sprints, or bodyweight strength exercises.
- Visualization & Mental Prep – Take a few minutes to focus and set a goal for that session.
Commit to Being Early—Every Time
The players who consistently show up early don’t do it once in a while; they do it every single session. It becomes a habit, a mindset. The best part? It doesn’t require talent—just effort and commitment. And if you want to be the best, you need to be willing to do what others won’t.
Next time practice is scheduled for 6:00 PM, don’t aim to arrive at 6:00. Aim to be there at 5:30. Show up, get extra touches, put in extra work, and watch your game reach new heights. Because in the end, champions aren’t made by what they do when practice starts—they’re made by what they do before it even begins.
Be different. Be early. Be great.
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