Shielding (protecting the ball) is thought of as a way to keep the ball whenever under pressure by an opponent. Unfortunately, players shield only to save possession. Once players become proficient at the below techniques they will move to the step where players will be in complete control with comfort on the ball and allowing them to lift their head and create attacks from the shielding position.
Progressions:
Player in the 'side-on' position learns to put the ball in the 'sweet-spot' or the 'safe-spot' by rolling the ball from bottom of the foot to the inside of the foot. The side-on position involves a wide base (feet spread wide), knees bent (lowering center of gravity), and closest arm out (providing more width).
Player then uses the turns which they have learned in order to turn away from a defender attempting to run around them to get the ball, or they are able to push the ball away from the defender and slide around the ball in order to face the defender.
