An Introduction to the Exciting Game of Soccer
So…you’ve signed your children up for soccer for the FIRST time. Now what?
Don’t know anything about the beautiful game? No problem. In some ways, it’s easiest to start with a clean slate. So you played in high school or college? It’s important to understand that being a soccer player and being a soccer parent are two different things.
For many kids, soccer is an introduction to team sports.
Why soccer? No fancy equipment required and you don’t need a lot of people. From an early age, every child loves to play with a ball. Soccer, at its most basic, is kicking the ball with friends. It doesn’t have complicated rules. It’s fun…and it’s supposed to stay that way. The number one reason children leave a sport is because they aren’t having fun. Sometimes it’s because they are not ready for the sport or they simply don’t enjoy the sport, but often times it’s because the parents have taken the fun out of playing.
So, how do you keep the game FUN for you and your child? Please take a few minutes to read the following guides. The guides make excellent points and present important items in a light, easily digestible style.
An Introduction to Youth Soccer
The Happy Soccer Book
Equipment, Trophies, and Keeping Score
What equipment do you need? Not much. A size 3 ball, shin guards, cleats, and plenty of water. Fancy, expensive equipment is not required. It will not make your child the next David Beckham or Abby Wambach.
Trophies? Yup, got ‘em. At the younger ages, going to practices, and playing in games is an accomplishment in and of it. So kids will get participation trophies. Embrace it; the kids love it. Wouldn’t it be nice if we as parents got a trophy once in a while? As they mature, the kids look back and understand it was for participation. It won’t temper their desire to earn trophies.
Oh and about keeping score…scores aren’t kept at the youngest ages. Some kids automatically keep score and others are happy just going out and playing. Don’t dwell on who wins or loses. What is important at this age is for kids to have a positive experience so they will want to continue to play. Scorekeeping will come later; we promise.
Be Supportive
So how do you make the most of the experience? Support your children. Make sure they go to practice so they can learn how to play, improve their game, and hang out with friends. Be part of the team. Cheer when a good play is made and not just for your child, but for all of the kids. Relax and let them play. Let them make their own decisions and their own mistakes; it is part of the learning process. Have reasonable expectations and bring great snacks!
