The scorpion kick, a term coined by Colombian goalkeeper René Higuita, burst onto the football scene in the late 20th century. Higuita himself showcased this audacious skill during a friendly match between Colombia and England at Wembley Stadium in 1995. As a goalkeeper, Higuita found himself in an unenviable position when a long-range shot from Jamie Redknapp looped over him. Miraculously, Higuita performed an acrobatic mid-air manoeuvre, propelling his legs over his head to clear the ball. The scorpion kick was born, leaving spectators and players alike in awe.
The scorpion kick's emergence was as much a result of instinct as it was of necessity. In Higuita's case, he found himself out of position and was determined to prevent a goal in any way possible. This unique combination of athleticism, innovation, and quick thinking birthed a technique that defied convention. Over time, the scorpion kick has evolved into a spectacle that goes beyond defensive necessity, finding its way into offensive plays and highlight reels.
Deploying a scorpion kick requires impeccable timing and spatial awareness. While it's a visually stunning move, attempting it without proper timing could result in injury or loss of possession. A scorpion kick is most effective when a player is close to the ground and the ball is at a height that allows the execution of the acrobatic action. It's essential to assess the situation swiftly and accurately, only attempting the manoeuvre when circumstances align favourably.
A Step-by-Step Guide
The scorpion kick is a blend of athleticism, timing, and courage. Here's a simplified breakdown of how to help your child execute this audacious move:
Stage 1: Ask them to watch the trajectory of the ball and be aware of their relative position to it. They must make sure they have enough space and time to perform the kick safely.
Stage 2: As the ball approaches, show them how to position their body so that their back is facing the goal and the ball is behind them.
Stage 3: Demonstrate propelling yourself into the air using one foot, while simultaneously extending the other leg over your head, in the direction of the ball. Ask them to copy this example.
Stage 4: Explain that they should aim to make contact with the ball using the underside of their extended leg. The motion will resemble the scorpion's tail striking.
Stage 5: After making contact with the ball, tell them that they should allow their legs to continue their motion, resembling the scorpion's tail recoil.
Stage 6: Ensure they land safely on the ground, maintaining their balance and avoiding any collisions with opponents or obstacles.
The scorpion kick is an embodiment of the creativity and innovation that define football. Born from an unexpected situation, it has transcended its defensive origins to become a symbol of audacious playmaking. However, mastering the scorpion kick requires not only skill and athleticism but also an acute sense of timing and spatial awareness. It's a technique that should be used sparingly, in moments that demand a touch of brilliance. As football continues to evolve, we can only anticipate more moments of magic that redefine what's possible on the pitch, and the scorpion kick will forever remain a testament to the limitless boundaries of the beautiful game.
Uncover an extensive assortment of techniques, advice, and practice drills to keep your child engaged by downloading the Family FC App. Support your child in raising their performance and football progression with our range of transformative coaching modules.
