STEVEN TAYLOR'S TOP RECOMMENDATIONS
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For Developing Elite Ball Control in Young Players
After 13 seasons with Newcastle United and representing England, I've seen firsthand how the right equipment can make all the difference in a player's development. Here are the JOGA products I've noticed making the biggest impact for young players:
1. Shin Pad Sleeves
The solution for focus and comfort
What separates these from standard pads is fact the shin pad is built-in to the sleeve. This eliminates any movement and distractions for the player. When I watch young players using these, they spend more time focused on the game and less time adjusting their gear.
Pro insight: At youth level, I've seen countless promising attacks broken down because a player was distracted by shifting shin pads. These sleeves keep young players in the moment - crucial for developing game awareness.
2. Mini Shin Pads
The foundation for better ball control
These lightweight shin pads provide maximum protection with minimal bulk. The reduced size allows young players to actually feel the ball when controlling it - a game-changer for technical development.
Pro insight: The biggest technical development happens between ages 8-14. These formative years are when players build their relationship with the ball. Bulky equipment during this phase can create bad habits that are hard to correct later.
3. JOGA Grip Socks
The secret weapon for stability
What impressed me about these socks is the strategic grip zones that prevent slipping inside boots. Young players spend less time adjusting their footing and more time focused on skill execution.
Pro insight: Confidence in movement is essential for attempting new skills. When a young player knows their plant foot won't slip, they're more likely to attempt that crucial feint or turn in game situations.
4. Pocket For Shin Pads
The innovation that changes everything
This ingenious holder keeps shin pads perfectly positioned without constant adjustments. I've watched kids spend so much time readjusting traditional pads during matches – time better spent focusing on the game.
Pro insight: Distractions kill performance at any level. When equipment stays in place, players stay in the moment - vital for developing game intelligence.
5. Grip Tapes
An essential for any player
These reusable tapes are a revelation compared to old-fashioned, disposable options. They maintain their grip and elasticity even after multiple matches and training sessions - something I wish we'd had during my professional career.
You save money on countless rolls of tape, and it's hassle-free on game day. You just pull them on and don't have to wrestle trying to tape shin pads in place.
Pro insight: Over 100,000 players worldwide trust these tapes for a reason. At the highest levels, eliminating distractions is everything. These tapes give young players the same focused playing experience that professionals demand.
WAREHOUSE CLEARANCE SALE ALERT
Just announced: JOGA is running a limited-time Buy 1 Get 1 Free warehouse sale on all products mentioned above.
These recommendations represent my personal observations from years in professional football. The right equipment can help unlock potential, but passionate practice remains the key to development.
Steven Taylor
Former Newcastle United & England
