Recently I've really gotten into the idea of playing soccer--it's a cool sport, and I could use something to get me to exercise a little more. But, my question is this: How do I get started? I haven't been playing this since I was three, I'd most likely get slaughtered on any sort of team.
So, does anyon have some advice on how to get started? Basics, ways to find people to play with, anything?
Posted by mackillian (Member # 586) on :
How old are you?
Posted by Human (Member # 2985) on :
Newly-turned 18. ...And I have not a shred of soccer experience. For that, you'd have to go to my cousins. I just think it's fun, and would like to play.
Posted by Elizabeth (Member # 5218) on :
Human, How old are you? Where do you live?
First thing is to make sure you are in fairly decent shape, so you don't get injured. Soccer is hard on the joints, and it is a lot of running. So, go running for a week or so.
Juggle the ball. Do you know what that is? Try to keep it in the air, like hackey sack. In fact, hackey sack is a great way to practice.
Get a ball and just dribble around stuff. Make an obstacle course in your yard or in the park. Pretend there is someone in front of you, and go around them.
Look for pick-up leagues. Look for rec leagues. There are more and more of these cropping up as soccer becomes more of an "in" sport.
Have fun! Greatest game, after ice hockey, in the world!
[ April 18, 2005, 10:29 AM: Message edited by: Elizabeth ]
Posted by DavidR (Member # 7473) on :
Do you know anybody who plays? At work we have a group of people who get together regularly to play soccer at the park. They range in experience from begginers to having played in college. If your city has a park district you might check to see if they have any kind of soccer league that you might be able to join. Ususally park districts which have such things will have leagues for those just getting into it as well as those who are experienced. I saw that you posted your age as 18. I don't know if you plan to go to college, but you may look into an intramural league at college if you go.
Posted by Zamphyr (Member # 6213) on :
Agree with Elizabeth and DaivdR. Get in shape. Hang out with your cousins, ask them.
If you truly hate talking to real people to find a friendly game, head over to www.bigsoccer.com and ask in the Soccer in the US forum for pick-up games/rec leagues in your area.
Posted by Shigosei (Member # 3831) on :
See if there are any American Youth Soccer Organization (AYSO) teams in your area. If you're out of high school, you won't be able to play, but one of the high school teams might let you practice ands scrimmage with them for experience. AYSO is laid-back and exists for the purpose of letting kids have fun and improve their skills rather than winning.
Posted by ProverbialSunrise (Member # 7771) on :
Soccer is my favourite sport. I've played ever since I was 3 (now I am 15).