April 14, 2026
If you play soccer in Charleston or Mount Pleasant, you already know the competition is strong. Players train year-round, clubs are competitive, and tryouts get tougher every season.
One skill that builds serious ball control — and looks impressive — is the Neck Stall (also called Back Control). In this article we will focus on how to do a Neck Stall.
It’s not just a freestyle trick. It teaches balance, soft touch, and body control. Those are skills that show up in real games.
Helpful Video on how to do the Neck Stall…
A neck stall is when you pop the ball into the air and gently catch it on the back of your neck.
It looks hard — but if you break it down step by step, most kids ages 6–12 can learn it with practice.
In Mount Pleasant and Charleston, many players get great coaching. But the players who stand out are the ones who train their touch outside of practice.
A neck stall improves:
These are the small skills that make a big difference in competitive Lowcountry matches.
Kick the ball gently up from your foot or thigh.
Don’t kick it high — just high enough to control.
As the ball goes up, bend slightly at your waist.
Keep your back flat.
Tuck your chin down.
Lift your shoulders slightly.
Spread your elbows out a little.
This creates a small platform for the ball to rest on.
Don’t chase the ball.
Let it fall gently onto your upper back.
If it rolls off — that’s normal. Try again.
This works in a backyard, park, or open space anywhere in Charleston or Mount Pleasant.
3 minutes – light juggling
3 minutes – practicing the lean-and-catch motion
4 minutes – full neck stall attempts
Try to hold it for 2 seconds at first. Then work up to 5 seconds.
Neck stalls take patience. That’s part of the training.
You may not use a neck stall in a match. But the balance and soft touch you build will show up when:
Youth soccer in Charleston continues to grow more competitive. Players who develop comfort with the ball early build long-term confidence.
And confidence changes everything.
Neck stall isn’t about showing off.
It’s about control.
If you’re serious about improving as a player in Charleston or Mount Pleasant, spend 10 minutes a day building touch. Small improvements turn into big advantages over time.
