What Kids Say:
"I like soccer because it is a team sport and it is fun to get the ball
and dribble up the field. Soccer also helps keep me in shape so Ican
run up and down the field. I think team sports are fun to play because
I can make new friends. "
- Lauren Gardner,
age 12, Soquel, California
"I like soccer because it keeps me in shape and lets me learn to work
as a team. It also lets me meet new kids. I also like going
to tournaments, and I enjoy learning new moves."
- Calen Barca-Hall,
age 12, Scotts Valley, California |
Comments from
an Expert: Mike Martinez, adult, Scotts Valley, California
I was an all state soccer player. I also played Division 1 soccer
for the University of South Florida and played for the Italia Soccer Club
in a semi-pro team.
How does this sport help your body?
Soccer keeps your body fit and conditioned. A person who is fit lives
a healthier and happier life.
How does this sport help you mentally?
Your mind functions more accurately when your body is fit. A
quick thinking mind releases endorphins that help the body function more
efficiently.
What sort of body type does a player need?
Soccer players can be short or tall, although having height is an advantage.
It is very important to have good muscle tone and muscle strength.
The most important attribute is quickness.
What are the dangers involved in playing this sport?
One of the most common injuries are joint injuries. This comes
from a player having their joint in a locked position.
What equipment do you need and how much does it cost?
A player needs shinguards$15, shorts $10, shirt$10, and a ball$40,
for a total cost of $75.00. The big cost comes in league and club
formation. Some clubs charge as high as $2000 per player to play.
Do you have anything else to add?
Soccer is a good conditioning sport for all kids and is easy to play
with little cost. I feel this is one reason it is the worlds most
popular game.
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How
to Play
Links to Other Sites
American Youth Soccer
Association (AYSO)
FIFA
History
Soccer was played in United States colleges as early as the 1820's.
In 1876 the Intercollegiate Futbol Association was founded. By 1913
the U.S. had been accepted as a member of the F.I.F.A (Federation International
Futbol Associations.) They played in 3 of the first 4 World Cup tournaments.
With kids under 18, soccer is the third most popular sport.
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