At BM6 Football Academy, one of our primary goals is to help our young players grow and reach their full potential. We work with athletes of all ages, from 4-year-olds just starting out to 15-year-olds who are developing into more advanced players. Along this journey, a common question that comes up is: What does it take to go from being a good player to a great player? The answer to this question goes beyond technical skill and game knowledge. It’s about mindset, consistency, and a relentless commitment to improvement.
In this post, we’ll break down the key differences between a good player and a great player, and how aspiring athletes can bridge that gap.
1. Technical Skills: The Foundation of Good Play
Good players have solid technical skills. They can pass the ball accurately, dribble effectively, and shoot with precision. They understand the basic principles of the game and can execute the fundamental skills in training and during matches. Whether it's controlling the ball, making a short pass, or executing a tackle, good players have a reliable grasp of the basics.
However, great players take these technical skills to a whole new level. They don’t just execute the fundamentals — they do it with consistency and creativity. A great player will make that perfect pass under pressure, find space in tight situations, or execute a skill move that leaves an opponent stunned. They’ve mastered the basics to such an extent that they can elevate them and adapt to different situations on the field. A great player can make split-second decisions and take their skills to the next level in a variety of game situations.
2. Understanding the Game: Tactical Awareness
Good players know how to play their position. They understand their role on the field, whether they’re defending, attacking, or controlling the midfield. They know the key principles of the game, such as when to press, when to drop back, and when to pass. In short, they play within the system and execute their tasks effectively.
Great players, however, have a much deeper understanding of the game. They don’t just focus on their own role; they read the game and anticipate what will happen next. They understand game flow, positioning, and how to create or disrupt attacking and defensive plays. Great players know how to adapt to different styles of play and can adjust their tactics based on the situation. They might drop into midfield to help with build-up play, press higher up the pitch to force a turnover, or make an intelligent run to pull defenders out of position. This higher level of tactical awareness gives them a significant edge.
3. Mental Toughness: The Difference-Maker
Perhaps the most significant difference between a good player and a great player lies in their mindset. Good players often perform well under the right conditions — when everything is going smoothly, when they’re in their comfort zone, or when they’re in a match where they feel confident. But great players are defined by their ability to perform in all situations, including those that test their mental strength.
A great player is resilient. They don’t get discouraged after a mistake or a missed opportunity; instead, they learn from it and move forward. They thrive under pressure, whether it's the last few minutes of a close game or a one-on-one situation with the goalkeeper. Great players are also incredibly focused and disciplined. They train with intensity, they stay motivated even when things get tough, and they set high standards for themselves, constantly pushing to improve. They don’t settle for “good enough.” Instead, they are relentless in their pursuit of excellence.
4. Work Ethic: The Pursuit of Excellence
Good players work hard in training. They attend practices, listen to their coaches, and apply themselves to the tasks at hand. They might even put in extra time outside of scheduled sessions to improve their skills. However, great players take their work ethic to a whole new level. Their commitment to improvement is relentless. They don't just train when it’s scheduled — they train every day, in some capacity, whether that means practicing at home, doing fitness work, or analyzing their performances.
A great player is never satisfied with where they are. They set goals for themselves, both short-term and long-term, and they put in the necessary effort to achieve them. They understand that progress is made through consistent, focused effort over time, and they are willing to do whatever it takes to get better. This kind of dedication often separates the good from the great.
5. Leadership and Influence: Elevating the Team
Good players contribute to their team’s success, but great players have the ability to elevate others. They become leaders on and off the pitch, even if they’re not wearing the captain’s armband. Great players motivate their teammates, communicate effectively, and lead by example. They know how to inspire others to perform at their best, whether it’s through a key pass, a last-ditch tackle, or a motivational word when the team needs it most.
A great player understands that soccer is a team game, and they are constantly looking for ways to improve not only themselves but also their teammates. They help younger players develop, guide others in high-pressure moments, and keep the team focused on the bigger picture. This level of leadership and influence is what makes them stand out as true game-changers.
6. Passion and Love for the Game: The Final Piece
Good players play soccer because they enjoy it, but great players have a deep passion for the game. Their love for soccer drives them to improve every day and motivates them to push through challenges. This passion is contagious — it fuels their work ethic, determination, and resilience.
Great players feel a deep connection to the sport, and this intrinsic motivation is what keeps them going, even when the going gets tough. They play for the love of the game, not just for trophies or recognition. Their enthusiasm for soccer is what keeps them constantly learning, evolving, and striving for greatness.
The Path to Greatness
At BM6 Football Academy, we believe that every player has the potential to be great — but reaching that level requires more than just talent. It takes commitment, mindset, work ethic, and a deep understanding of the game. While good players are often consistent and reliable, great players have the ability to transcend their roles and make a lasting impact on every match they play.
Whether you're just starting your soccer journey or are already a more experienced player, always remember that becoming a great player is about more than just improving your technical skills. It's about developing your mindset, understanding the game on a deeper level, and working relentlessly to improve. The transition from good to great doesn’t happen overnight, but with dedication, passion, and a constant desire to learn, you can unlock your full potential and become the player you’ve always dreamed of being.
At BM6 Football Academy, we’re here to help you take that next step. Let’s work together to turn your good habits into greatness!