Some people think that soccer is not a rough game but without proper precautions it can be quite dangerous. We found a great article that discusses some important points in soccer safety! Millions of American kids have taken up soccer. Because there is not as much physical contact as in other sports, children can begin play at very young ages and on co-ed as well as single-sex teams. It’s also a sport that children of all body sizes can learn to play. And the constant running provides an excellent cardiovascular workout.
All players should wear shin guards that cover the leg from below the knee to just above the foot. Knee-high socks are worn over the shin guards. Avoid shoes with screw-in metal cleats; molded plastic cleats are softer and therefore less likely to cause injury.
As children become more experienced and skilled at the game, they will want to learn about headers (bouncing the ball off their heads). They should be taught to hit the ball only with the forehead and not the temple.
Balls come in various sizes for players of different age groups. Check with your coach to make sure your child practices with the right size ball.