The wind is in your face as you travel down the field with the ball at your feet. Your eyes are wide open watching for your opponents. You dodge them, all the while controlling the ball. The net is now within your reach. You wind up and launch the ball towards its target…
This is all a part of the game of soccer.
With World Cup Soccer well underway, let’s explore this favorite sport.
History of Soccer
Soccer dates back as far as 2,000 years ago to ancient China, Greece, Rome, and parts of Central America. However, we may have England to thank for what the sport is today.
Called “football” the English are credited with recording the first uniform rules for the sport. This includes not allowing the tripping of opponents and touching the ball with your hands.
The Goal of This…the penalty kick was introduced in 1891.
What You Need to Play Soccer
To play on a soccer team, you will need these items;
- Soccer Shoes (cleats)
- Shin Guards
- Uniform (shirt, shorts, socks)
- Soccer Ball
- Soccer Field
- Water Bottle
The Goal of This…Soccer is the most widely played and widely followed sport on the planet.
The Goal of This…
Soccer is a fast-paced game played with two teams of 11 players and the goalies. Younger leagues may opt for fewer players, so everyone gets a chance to play all positions.
The goal of the game is to get the soccer ball into your opponent’s net. However, only your feet can touch the ball as you move it down the field. This is called, dribbling.
When a player is playing defense, the ball can come in contact with any part of their body, except their hands. You can even take a shot off your head.
There are many positions a soccer player can excel at;
- Defense positions: Goalie, Sweeper, Stopper or Fullback
- Basic position; Midfielder, Halfback
- Offense position; Forward, Striker, Wing
When playing soccer, the game will be divided into four quarters of 15 minutes each. To score a goal, the soccer ball must fly past the goalie, who is always standing guard in the net. This requires agility, stamina, and also teamwork to pass the ball back and forth.
The Goal of This: Playing soccer can be as easy as grabbing a ball, and practicing kicking, running, and making goals.
What do you think of the game of Soccer?
If you have played this sport, share your experiences with us in the comments section. We want to hear all about it!
Be sure to explore our other Let’s Play features!
Categories: Sports
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