ball control

noun

: an offensive strategy (as in football) in which a team tries to keep possession of the ball for extended periods of time

Examples of ball control in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
The emphasis will be on ball control, field position and avoiding mistakes. Los Angeles Times, 3 Jan. 2026 The Bulldogs relied on strong field position, ball control, and a 50-yard field goal to maintain their lead in the second half. Cbs News Atlanta Digital Team, CBS News, 29 Nov. 2025 By personifying the ball as a sidekick, children are invited to practice ball control while also developing empathy and responsibility. Matt Emma, USA Today, 3 Nov. 2025 As for the on-court play, Groth said the team will focus on maintaining a fast tempo, aiming for consistent ball control, effective serves and a serve receive that sets them up for success. Charles Baggarly, Fort Worth Star-Telegram, 24 Oct. 2025 See All Example Sentences for ball control

Word History

First Known Use

1910, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of ball control was in 1910

Browse Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Ball control.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/ball%20control. Accessed 9 Jan. 2026.

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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