Soccer Goals

Uruguay 1930-South Africa 2010 - The Chilean Men's Soccer Team

History

1889 Valparaiso F.C. was founded in Chile. It was the first football club in Chile.

1916 Chile placed fourth in the South American Tournament in Buenos Aires (Argentina). It was one of the four nations to participate in the First South American Championship.

1920 Valparaiso hosted the South American Tournament. Uruguay was the champion....

1922 The Chilean men's soccer squad finished third at the Football South American Cup in Rio de Janeiro, behind Brazil (host country) Paraguay, Uruguay and Argentina.

1926 Santiago de Chile hosted the South American Cup. Uruguay was the winner.

1927 Chile did not participate at the South American Championship in Lima, Peru.

1928 The Chilean Olympic Committee sent a national team to the Summer Olympic Games in Amsterdam, Holland.

1930 Chile accepted an invitation to play in the First World Championship in Montevideo, Uruguay. The Chilean men's football squad was one of 13 national teams to make its international debut in the World Cup. In Uruguay, the Chilean team placed 5th, behind host country, Argentina, Yugoslavia and the United States. In the first round, Chile defeated France (1-0) and Mexico (3-0).

1941 The South American Tournament was held in Santiago de Chile. The host country earned the bronze medal.

1945 For the fourth time, Chile hosted the South American Tournament.

1950 Chile sent a national team for the World Cup in Brazil. Unfortunately, they were beaten by England (0-2) and Spain (0-3). However, they won a match at the FIFA World Cup. It upset the United States 5-2.

1951 The Chilean team earned the bronze medal at the Pan American Games in Buenos Aires, Argentina.

1952 The National Olympic Committee sent a national squad to the Summer Games in Scandinavia.

1955 The South American Cup was held in Chile. The Chilean team was runner-up.

1962 The World Championships were scheduled for Chile. The Latin American territory hosted the global tournament for the third time. There were 16 national teams: Switzerland, Bulgaria, Colombia, Uruguay, Spain, Mexico, Argentina, Italy, England, USSR, West Germany, Hungary, Yugoslavia, Czechoslovakia, Brazil and Chile. Surprisingly, Chile finished third in the global competition. The Chilean men's soccer team won four of its six matches-Switzerland, Italy, Russia and Yugoslavia. They only lost against West Germany -which was runner-up at the 1958 World Cup in Stockholm (Sweden)- and Brazil -World champion and under the leadership of Pelè. For the first time at the FIFA global championship, Chile qualified for the semi-finals. In the second round, Chile made history when it upset the USSR, which had gained the global title at the 1956 Summer Games and the 1960 European Cup, 2-1. This South American nation had also defeated Yugoslavia, which was runner-up at the European Tournament, 1-0.

1963 The national team earned the bronze medal at the Pan American Games in Brazil.

1966 At the FIFA World Cup in London, England, Chile placed 13th...

1973 During the 1974 World Cup Qualification, the USSR did not want to play with Chile-both states severed diplomatic ties. The Union Soviet did not send a national team to protest against the president Augusto Jose Ramon Pinochet Ugarte, one of the greatest anti-Communist leaders in Latin America. Weeks ago, Chile draw with the USSR in Moscow. Chile was declared winner and qualified for the World Cup in Germany...Colo Colo was runner-up at the Copa Libertadores de America.

1974 Before the World Cup, Chile played nine matches-Haitian team, Santa Fe, Atletico Nacional de Colombia, Saprissa de Costa Rica, Municipal de Guatemala, River Plate and Irish team. Chile placed 13th in the World Championships in Munich, West Germany.

1974-1976 Elias Figueroa was one of the most valuable players in Latin America.

1975 Universidad Española (Chile) was runner-up at the Copa Libertadores de America. In the final match, Independiente (Argentina) beat Universidad Española.

1982 Chile placed 22nd in the World Cup in Spain...Colo Colo won the Copa Libertadores de America. It defeated Olimpia (Paraguay) in the finals. Colo Colo became the first Chilean club to win the Copa Libertadores- a traditional tournament in South America.

1984 The Chilean men's soccer squad was runner-up at the Pre-Olympic Tournament in Quito, Ecuador, and qualified for the XXIII Olympiad in the United States. Chile placed sixth in the Olympic Games in Los Angeles, California-it finished behind France (gold medal), Brazil (silver medal), Yugoslavia (bronze medal), Italy and Canada.

1985 For unknown reasons, the FIFA canceled the World Youth Cup in Santiago de Chile. The tournament was held in Moscow (USSR).

1986 Santiago de Chile made a bid for the 1994 FIFA World Cup.

1987 Santiago de Chile hosted the FIFA Under-20 World Cup. The host country placed fourth. The Chilean government, an anti-Communist regime from 1973 to 1990, did not refuse to issue visas to Bulgarian and East German delegations...The national team was runner-up at the Pan American Games in Indianapolis, USA.

1989 During the 1990 World Cup Qualification, between Chilean and Brazilians teams, Roberto Rojas (Chile's goalkeeper) pretended to be a victim of an attack. Chile was suspended by FIFA. For this reason, Chile could not participate in the Pre-World Championships in the late 80s and early 90s.

1993 The Chilean men's football squad placed third at the FIFA Under-17 World Championships in Tokyo, Japan.

1998 Chile placed 16th in the World Championships in Paris (France), behind France, Brazil, Croatia, Holland, Argentina, Italy, Germany, Denmark, England, Yugoslavia, Romania, Nigeria, Mexico, Paraguay and Norway. The 1998 World Tournament was the 7th World Cup in which Chile has participated.

2000 Chile was runner-up at the 2000 South American Pre-Olympic Tournament in Brazil. Ivan Zamorano led the Chilean men's football team to the bronze medal at the Summer Olympics in Australia. This became the fourth Latin American soccer team to win an Olympic medal.

2004 Chile hosted the South American Pre-Olympic Tournament.

2007 The Chilean men's soccer squad placed third at the FIFA Under-20 World Cup in Toronto (Canada), behind Argentina and the Czech Republic. It was a date historic for Chile and South America.

2007-2008 Chile placed fourth in the South American Qualifying Group for the 2010 FIFA World Cup, behind Paraguay, Brazil and Argentina.

Alejandro Guevara Onofre: He is a freelance writer. Alejandro is of Italian, African and Peruvian ancestry. He has published more than seventy-five research paper in English, and more than twenty in Spanish, concerning the world issues, olympic sports, countries, and tourism. His next essay is called "The Dictator and Alicia Alonso". He is an expert on foreign affairs. Alejandro is the first author who has published a world-book encyclopedia in Latin America. He admires Frida Kahlo (Mexican painter), José Gamarra (former president of the Bolivian Olympic Committee ,1970- 1982), Hillary Clinton (ex-First Lady of the USA), and Jimmy Carter (former President of the USA). Alejandro said: "The person who I admire the most is José Gamarra . He devoted his professional and personal life to sport. José played an important role in the promotion of Olympism in Bolivia -it is one of the Third World`s poorest countries- and Latin America. His biography is interesting". The sportspeople he most admire is Olympic volleyball player Flo Hyman. "This African-American sportswoman is my idol... " Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Alejandro_Guevara_Onofre

The Diet of a Professional Football Player

There was a time when professional footballers would eat and drink pretty much whatever they wanted. Some players would regularly choose steak chips and peas or an English breakfast for their pre match meal and would consume excessive amounts of alcohol during an evening.

Nowadays football is a multi billion pound industry and players know they have to look after themselves and eat sensibly. All athletes have nutritional requirements that need to be met and in this respect the diet of a professional football player is no different.

Football is a physically demanding sport that requires lots of energy. A large number of calories will be needed to meet this demand with lots of carbohydrates in the form of fruit and vegetables. Clean sources of protein are also included such as chicken and fish which are low in fat. Football players can easily consume around 4,000 calories a day.

One aspect of a football player's diet that is often overlooked is the need for proper hydration. Drinking plenty of water is absolutely essential for numerous reasons. A large quantity of fluid is lost by sweating during training. It is recommended that between three and six litres of water a day is consumed to keep the body fully hydrated.

The foods to avoid are any kind of fast food which tends to be high in fat content and low in nutritional value as well as dairy products and foods containing excessive amounts of sugar and salt. Alcohol should only be consumed in moderation and never the night before a match or immediately after a game when the body is severely dehydrated.

Football clubs analyze every detail of a footballer's lifestyle in an attempt to increase performance and gain even the smallest advantage over the opposition. The diet of a professional football player will also come under scrutiny. Most managers recognize that the scientific approach to diet and nutrition can pay dividends and lead to optimum levels of match fitness.

For more football related articles please visit Football Blog for the latest news and comment on the premiership soccer scene.

The author is an experienced sports journalist and has a keen interest in sports, investments and financial trading you can see some more of his work at Football Trading System which is a popular soccer trading system for use on the betting exchanges. Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Jason_Towse

Soccer Injuries - Sprains

Sprains and strains of the joints are probably the single most common form of injury suffered by soccer players, again particularly of the ankles and knees. These can occur when the joint is wrenched too abruptly in an unfamiliar direction, particularly when the player takes a fall on the field while moving at a high velocity.

Treating a sprain is a simple matter; there isn't much that you can do for it other than attempt to keep ice on it to minimize the inflammation, avoid putting pressure on the joint as much as possible and keeping the joint wrapped to provide extra support on those occasions during which you must be up and about on it.

Playing with a sprain in one of the joints in your leg or foot is an extremely foolish course of action; however, if you are absolutely determined to play or your injury is all but healed and you feel that you are capable of going out on the field there are a number of knee and ankle braces that can be purchased over the counter that will provide suitable support while you are on the field.

Cuts and Bruises

Any game in which you have an entire field full of people kicking at each other while wearing shoes with spikes on the bottom is bound to result in a fair share of scrapes and bruises.

If a bruise seems to be accompanied with an inordinate amount of swelling or seems to be spreading under the skin rather than staying in a centralized location, or a cut seems to be deep enough to require stitches or bleeding profusely you should see a doctor; you may have suffered a more serious injury than you previously believed. Otherwise, putting ice on a bruise and keeping your scrapes clean and clear of infection is the best treatment you can provide.

It is especially important for you to ensure that any cut received while on the field is properly cleaned and treated with an antibiotic ointment; there is an incredible amount of bacteria naturally residing in dirt, and although it usually does not present a problem it will have a field day reproducing in an open cut. This will result in the wound being extraordinarily painful, taking an inordinate amount of time to heal and opens up the possibility of the infection spreading out from the injury to other parts of your body, presenting you with a systemic infection that is going to be even more difficult to get rid of. Trust us when we tell you it is much easier to take a couple of minutes to clean the cut out with some soap and water or saline and apply a quick dose of Neosporin.

Unless a cut or a bruise is severe enough to seriously hamper your mobility you can probably continue playing.

Read about soccer moves and soccer positions at The Soccer Coach website. Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Jenny_Styles

12 Tips For New Coaches in Youth Soccer in the Attack

If you spend $30 to buy a book on coaching youth soccer, it will be 200 pages of great advice that your girls cannot use. Your job as a coach is to reduce all that excellent advice into a set of rule sthat your players can remember in the middle of the game while they are running as fast as they can. This is no easy task for the inexperienced coach.

You should have your players maintain a soccer Journal and encourage them to study their notes in between practices. These offenses principles would make a nice one-page entry in their journal. These are the words that you should use in practice to make sure that they understand and apply the principles of offense.

Offensive principles for youth soccer:

When our team has the ball, your job is to:

1. Spread out and use all of the space on the field
2. Use your teammates to invincible
3. Support your fellow teammates and talk to them
4. Take the ball wide and be ready to pass
5. Carry the ball to the corner
6. Cross the ball to the center
7. If you don't have the ball, go to the front of the goal
8. Midfielders connect the defenders to the attackers
9. Every time you have the ball you should be looking to score a goal
10. If the other team gets in your way, then you go around them
11. Make it easy for your teammates and pass it to.
12. Move to the player you just passed to in case they have to pass it back.

Soccer is called the beautiful game with good reason. It is deceptively simple, but it's very easy to make it complicated especially for inexperienced coaches. We have to work hard to make it easy for a players especially when they're just learning how to play. I believe this set of rules for coaching soccer in the attack will help you develop players who love the game.

Ken Long, Chief of Research, Tortoise Capital Management http://www.tortoisecapital.com Adding value through independent research, combining technical analysis and human behavioral psychology 30 day free trial of reports and live trader chatroom Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Ken_Long

Does C Ronaldo, Portugal Have What it Takes?

By Syddel Worrell

I've been following Euro 2008 and I have enjoyed watching the competition thus far. I watched two impressive victories thus far, Spain's 4-1 brilliance over Russia and the Netherlands' thrashing of Italy.

I want to draw some attention right now to the Portuguese, who seem to be in good form, as they have won both of their matches thus far. Although they don't look to me as impressive as the Netherlands or Spain, they get the job done and have been beating their opponents quite convincingly, but I don't think the score lines in both their matches truly reflected how close their games were.

The only difference between them and the teams they have beaten is that they took their opportunities when they came, and in football this is what separates the best from the rest.
Portugal has a good team with the likes of captain Nuno Gomes, Simao, Deco, Cristiano Ronaldo and Pepe, but do they have what it takes to be crowned the best of Europe. With the lineup they possess I believe they are capable of doing it but I really don't see them winning this one. They have a good midfield but their defense looks a bit shaky at times and their chemistry seems to be a bit off.

I do like the way Cristiano Ronaldo is playing, as he is passing the ball a lot more than he would had he been playing for Manchester United, but I'm never overly impressed with the things he does.
One thing that I have really questioned about this Portuguese team is the fact that team coach, Luiz Scolari allows Ronaldo to wear the captain's armband when Nuno Gomes is substituted. Personally, I think the band should be given to a more experienced player like Deco, but I guess the armband is given to Ronaldo to boost his confidence. However he is still very young and I don't think he's ready to lead the national team.

Overall Portugal are playing well and with a little bit more time together they most likely will get better, we just have to wait and see how they hold up against the bigger guns of the competition.

Good luck to Portugal.

Syddel Worrell Visit My Blog @ http://alleagues.blogspot.com Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Syddel_Worrell

Watch Soccer Online

By Geraldine Oaks 

Want to watch soccer online? Euro 2008 has brought new opportunities for creative minds in the domain of online soccer watching. There are nowadays many opportunities for watching football videos via the streaming system. They are free and classified according to the topic. There are sections with advertisements for players, reports, extracts from football matches in streaming. Soccer videos online feature football players like Ronaldo, Zidane, Henry or any other football player you admire. You can also see excerpts and summaries of the biggest football matches and to search for videos of football streaming through internal search engines.

Euro 2008 will materialize convergence of traffic and data, voice and video, into a single network. This will lead to a complexity of IP networks and a performance problem for many businesses that can not control wild downloads of video ... The networks must be secure and optimized to ensure the availability of resources.

Should this warning be taken seriously? Definitely not! IT systems have evolved since users have 4, 8 or even 16 Mb / s or more bandwidth Internet, available only for them alone at home. It is more desirable to surf comfortably at home and even watch TV on your PC, rather than at the office. The internet in an office is rather reserved for ad hoc research (routes, timetables, online banks) multiple but short lasting searches. The real soccer addicts have already planned mini-TV, portable tuners TNT on laptops, even broadcasts on the 3G mobile. Others prefer the comfort of a large screen at coffee shops or at home.

Learn more about Watching Euro 2008 Online with Free Internet TV Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Geraldine_Oaks

Ronaldo Football Shirts Are Everywhere

By Thomas Baugh 

Ronaldo, just how good can this boy get? Already a massive household name he is steadily going about his business in unbelievable fashion. He will now take centre stage at the European Championships and few could begrudge him coming away with a winner's medal.

Cristiano or 'Ronnie' as he is known to his team mates has come a long way since he stepped into fill David Beckham's boots as an 18 year old back in 2003; few of us knew anything about the young lad from Portugal. However we certainly were going to in seasons to come.

It was a shrewd move of Fergie and one that has paid off remarkably well, if he ever sold him it would be for a world record fee that I doubt would ever be surpassed. He was Sir Matt Busby player of the season in his first year and then slipped off the radar slightly in the next

He then slowly came good again scoring 9 in 5o appearances during the 2004/05 season and then the rest is history as I am sure we have all seen. Whatever he touches turns to gold. He is still ridiculed by opposition players that he show boating tactics are disrespectful but he has denied that saying it is his game.

Quite frankly it just goes to prove he is world class and I would pay money to see that.

He has however got a slightly devious side as we all know from the famous winking incident that got Rooney sent off at the European Championships, and at times he plays up to referees when he clearly feels he has been fouled.

That said there is no doubting he is a class act and kids everywhere are decked out in Ronaldo football shirts producing their own displays of Madeira magic.

There's more information on Ronaldo and other players at World Football Shirts. Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Thomas_Baugh

Privacy Policy

We have created this privacy statement in order to demonstrate our firm and continuing commitment to the privacy of personal information provided by those visiting and interacting with this web site. We hold the privacy of your personal information in the highest regard. The following discloses our information gathering and dissemination practices for this website.

We recognize the importance of protecting your privacy and our policy is designed to assist you in understanding how we collect, use and safeguard the personal information you provide to us and to assist you in making informed decisions when using our site. This policy will be continuously assessed against new technologies, business practices and our customers' needs.

What Information Do We Collect?

When you visit this web site you may provide us with two types of information: personal informationyou knowingly choose to disclose that is collected on an individual basis and Web site useinformation collected on an aggregate basis as you and others browse our Web site.

1. Personal Information You Choose to Provide

Registration InformationWhen you register for any of our products, services or newsletters you will provide us information about yourself.Credit Card InformationIf you choose to avail of our services, you may need to give personal information and authorization to obtain information from various credit services. For example, you may need to provide the

following information:
-Name
-Mailing address
-Email address
-Credit card number
-Name on credit card-Credit card billing address
-Business and home phone number

Email Information
If you choose to correspond with us through email, we may retain the content of your email messages together with your email address and our responses. We provide the same protections for these electronic communications that we employ in the maintenance of information received by mail and telephone.

2. Web Site Use Information
Similar to other commercial Web sites, our Web site utilizes a standard technology called "cookies" see explanation below, "What Are Cookies?") and web server log files to collect information about how our Web site is used. Information gathered through cookies and Web server logs may include the date and time of visits, the pages viewed, time spent at our Web site, and the Web sites visited just before and just after our Web site.

How Do We Use the Information That You Provide to Us?

Broadly speaking, we use personal information for purposes of administering our business activities,providing the products and services you requested, to process your payment, , to monitor the use of the service, our marketing and promotional efforts and improve our content and service offerings, and customize our site's content, layout, services and for other lawful purposes. These uses improve our site and better tailor it to meet your needs.Furthermore, such information may be shared with others on an aggregate basis. Personally identifiable information or business information will not be shared with parties except as required by law.

Occasionally, we may also use the information we collect to notify you about important changes to our Website, new services, and special offers we think you will find valuable. You may notify us atany time if you do not wish to receive these offers by emailing us at the link provided on the newsletter.

What Are Cookies?

A cookie is a very small text document, which often includes an anonymous unique identifier. Whenyou visit a Web site, that site's computer asks your computer for permission to store this file in a part of your hard drive specifically designated for cookies. Each Web site can send its own cookieto your browser if your browser's preferences allow it, but (to protect your privacy) your browser only permits a Web site to access the cookies it has already sent to you, not the cookies sent to you by other sites. Browsers are usually set to accept cookies. However, if you would prefer not to receive cookies, you may alter the configuration of your browser to refuse cookies. If you choose to have your browser refuse cookies, it is possible that some areas of our site will not function as effectively when viewed by the users. A cookie cannot retrieve any other data from your hard drive or pass on computer viruses.

How Do We Use Information We Collect from Cookies?

As you visit and browse our Web site, the site uses cookies to differentiate you from other users. In some cases, we also use cookies to prevent you from having to log in more than is necessary for security. Cookies, in conjunction with our Web server's log files, allow us to calculate the aggregate number of people visiting our Web site and which parts of the site are most popular. This helps us gather feedback to constantly improve our Web site and better serve our clients. Cookies do not allow us to gather any personal information about you and we do not intentionally store any personal information that your browser provided to us in your cookies.

IP Addresses

IP addresses are used by your computer every time you are connected to the Internet. Your IP address is a number that is used by computers on the network to identify your computer. IP addresses are automatically collected by our web server as part of demographic and profile data known as traffic data so that data (such as the Web pages you request) can be sent to you.

Sharing and Selling Information

We do not share, sell, lend or lease any of the information that uniquely identify a subscriber (such as email addresses or personal details) with anyone except to the extent it is necessary to process transactions or provide services that you have requested.

How Can You Access and Correct Your Information?

You may request access to all your personally identifiable information that we collect online and maintain in our database by emailing us at the usual address. What About Legally Compelled Disclosure of Information? We may disclose information when legally compelled to do so, in other words, when we, in good faith, believe that the law requires it or for the protection of our legal rights. We may also disclose account information when we have reason to believe that disclosing this information is necessary to identify, contact or bring legal action against someone who may be violating our Terms of Service or to protect the safety of our users and the Public.

What About Other Web Sites Linked to Our Web Site?

We are not responsible for the practices employed by Web sites linked to or from our Web site or the information or content contained therein. Often links to other Web sites are provided solely as pointers to information on topics that may be useful to the users of our Web site. Please remember that when you use a link to go from our Website to another web site, our Privacy Policy is no longer in effect. Your browsing and interaction on any other web site, including web sites, which have a link on our Website, is subject to that Web site's own rules and policies.

Please read over those rules and policies before proceeding. Your ConsentBy using our Web site you consent to our collection and use of your personal information as described in this Privacy Policy. We reserve the right to amend this privacy policy at any time with or without notice.

Our Commitment To Data Security:

Please note that your information will be stored and processed on our computers in the United States. The laws on holding personal data in the United States may be less stringent than the laws of your Country of residence or citizenship. To prevent unauthorized access, maintain data accuracy, and ensure the correct use of information, we have put in place appropriate physical, electronic, and managerial procedures to safeguard and secure the information we collect online.

Choice/Opt-In/Opt-Out

This site allows visitors to unsubscribe so that they will not receive future messages. After unsubscribing we will discontinue sending the particular messages as soon as technically feasible.

Surveys & Contests

From time-to-time our site requests information from users via surveys or contests. Participation in these surveys or contests is completely voluntary and the user therefore has a choice whether or not to disclose this information. Information requested may include contact information (such as name and shipping address), and demographic information (such as zip code, age level). Contact information will be used to notify the winners and award prizes. Survey information will be used for purposes of monitoring or improving the use and satisfaction of this site.

A Special Note About Children

Children are not eligible to use our services unsupervised and we ask that children (under the age of 14) do not submit any personal information to us. If you are a minor, you can use this service only in conjunction with permission and guidance from your parents or guardians. Acquisition or Changes in Ownership In the event that the web site (or a substantial portion of its assets) is acquired, your information would be considered part of those assets, and may be part of those assets that are transferred.

Policy Modifications

We may change this Privacy Policy from time to time. If/when changes are made to this privacy policy, we will email users who have given us permission to do so. We will post any changes here, so be sure to check back periodically. However, please be assured that if the Privacy Policy changes in the future, we will not use the personal information you have submitted to us under this Privacy Policy in a manner that is materially inconsistent with this Privacy Policy, without your prior consent.

World Cup 2010 - Kenya Lays Strategy For Marketing

By James Kamweru

Kenya has put herself in a strategic position for marketing as stop over point for South African bound world cup teams. The announcement that the country will be hosting the 2010 African athletics championship has put the country in an ideal position to market itself.

The African athletics championship are held in early May, just before the conclusion of world leading soccer leagues. That means that when they are held in 2010, the national teams will be preparing to convene in camps before traveling to South Africa. The event is covered live by most television networks, hence publicity will be assured.

With only a little marketing, the country can be able to showcase its venues as ideal for practice ahead of the games in South Africa. Kenya enjoys almost identical climatic conditions with south Africa, though the later can be colder especially in winter. It has excellent infrastructure both in transport networks and communication.

Apart from the known soccer stadiums, institutions and clubs in Kenya have excellent pitches that can be used for soccer practice. The stadiums that are normally used for hockey, rugby and cricket if converted to temporary soccer pitches will make the teams wishing to train in Kenya have a wide variety to choose from.

Kenya is an athletics powerhouse. It is unlikely that any team in Africa would want to miss the meet in Kenya. It is also likely that sports analysts will be keen to see the new crop of athletes come to the scene and of course the replay of rivalry between Kenya and Ethiopia. This will present an ideal opportunity of showcasing the country as a stopover en route to South Africa.

Two of Africa's soccer powerhouses Nigeria and Cameroon have preferred to use Nairobi as a base before major tournaments. But the catch will be the other world beaters, from South America and Europe. Just before the last world cup, the practice camp of Brazil national team in Switzerland generated so much interest that every minute of their practice sessions was beamed worldwide.

With their tradition of winning cups outside Europe, Brazil will definitely begin as favorites to win the world cup in Africa. Wherever they go to pitch camp in Africa, they are likely to stir much more interest than they did in the last world cup. It will be in the interest of the host country to attract the best country in soccer for obvious reasons.

Kenya has already made a name over the years as a stable and developed country by African standards. Outside South Africa, the country has a head start as an optional practice site due to its weather. With the new strategic opening for publicity, the country should aim to attract only the top guns in the world of soccer.

James G. Kamweru is a tour operator and has been organizing and reporting on Vacation, Travel and Tours for years. For More Information Visit his site at Sports Tourism I Will Also Highly Appreciate Your Comments Kenya Travel On My Blog Here Sports Tourism Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=James_Kamweru

Soccer Training/Football Training-Developing Field Vision

By Maverick Jensen

Having good field vision is an important skill that all midfielders need to have. The process to develop good field vision, is slow and only comes with more the experience you gain and the more skilled you become. To speed up the process you can try and watch as much soccer as you can as this will enhance your tactical understanding of the game, another tip you could try is to play in different positions this will further deepen your understanding of the game. There are a couple of factors that influence field vision which are;

SKILLS
As you become more skilled and start to improve your technical ability with the ball, the less you will need to concentrate on being able to control the ball. Giving you more time to spend on quickly looking what is going on around you before you actually get the ball. Being able to settle the ball quickly with your first touch is crucial as it allows you to get your head quick then if you have two have another extra touch to control the ball. To improve your skills you need to work hard during your soccer training (football training) particularly by yourself, working on dribbling skills and particularly your first touch and trapping skills.

AWARENESS
Having good at awareness can often come down to concentration. Many players will wander off mentally during the game limiting their potential to know what's going on around them before they get the ball. Improving your awareness starts during your normal soccer training sessions with your team, when you play small gains during your soccer training you must be constantly looking around behind you, to the side. You must know it least one option before you get the ball in case you shut down by a defender quickly.

TACTICAL UNDERSTANDING
To improve your tactical understanding of the game you must watch and analyse what the best players do in their position, viewing the game in terms of positional movement. You must realise where certain players will be consistently in the position that they play. Having a general idea of where your teammates will be due to understanding their positions will make it easier to you to find them with a pass. Another tip that will help you gain further understanding is to play and swap positions with teammates temporarily to gain an insight of tactically where they should be.

This article has only scratched the surface of what you can learn to learn more goto http://www.footballsmart.890m.com Football Smart has a wealth of information ranging from improving your ball skills, defending, shooting, mental preparation, passing and many other skills. Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Maverick_Jensen

Can Manchester United Win The Champions League?

By Steve Hill 

I have just watched Manchester United beat Barcelona in the semi-final of the champion's league. It was a superb, intriguing match with United showing all of the battling qualities of a typical English team. The question on many people's mind is can Man United win the Champions league final in Russia in three weeks time?

I personally believe that Manchester United will become the champion's league winners this year as they have best players including:

Christiano Ronaldo

Christiano Ronaldo is probably the best player in the world right now. Some would argue that Messi is right up there, he certainly is a top player as well. Ronaldo would grace any team and could prove to be a match winner in May. Not only has he got immense skills on the deck; he is also outstanding in the air.

Paul Scholes

Paul Scholes may be quiet off the pitch however he is a little dynamo on it. His goal in the semi-final just showed what a quality player he is. In recent years he has become more of a defensive midfielder as other younger players take on the mantel up front. Scholes is always able to score the odd goal and is often overlooked by the opposing players whom prefer to concentrate on Rooney and Ronaldo.

Wayne Rooney

Wayne Rooney tends to save his best performances for the big games and he would be my choice for the first goal scorer in the final. Rooney is a real English battler with a massive amount of skill.

Rio Ferdinand

Rio Ferdinand is a real lion at the back and is a true leader. I have no doubt that he will be more than capable of marking any forward out of the game and will be a superb future captain of the English national team.

Manchester United may well rule Europe for the next few years to come as Alex Ferguson plans to dominate the champion's league competition.

Steve Hill is a webmaster from Birmingham, he has interests in a number of websites including: stuttering, treatments for stuttering, and alternative therapy. Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Steve_Hill

Agility Training For Soccer

By Patrick Beith

With soccer season coming up and the agility conditioning of your athletes is unknown, are you looking for new exercises to have your team explode onto the scene?

Fortunately, there are 10 tried-and-true exercises that are guaranteed to get your players ready and in late-season shape in no-time!

1) Funnel Drill: Need 6 cones. The first 2 cones are next to each other 2 yards apart. Place the cones 3 and 4, 3 yards away form the first 2 and separate them 4 yards apart. Cones 5 and 6 are going to be 3 yards away from cones 3 and 4, and they will be separated 6 yards apart. The cones should form a shape of a funnel.

To start this drill, you should stand in an athletic position in front of cone #1. On a command of a coach or training partner, laterally shuffle to cone #2. Touch the top of cone 2 then sprint diagonally to cone #3, touch, then shuffle to cone #4. Touch cone #4 then sprint diagonally to cone #5, touch and laterally shuffle to cone #6. Touch cone #6 then sprint forward 5 yards to the finish line.

***Progressions: There are many different variations to this drill. You can add different cuts and moves to the funnel pattern. You can add different commands (audible or visual) to start the drill or to have the athlete perform different movements. To make this drill even more challenging, you can add an opponent or a ball, while making sure you are not compromising the technique of the drill.

2) 5-10-5 (Pro Agility): There are three cones set-up 5 yards apart. The athlete starts at the middle cone (cone #2) facing the cone with cones #1 & #3 on the right and left side. The athlete turns and sprints 5 yards to cone #1, plants and runs 10 yards past cone #2 to cone 3. The athlete plants again and runs 5 yards back to the start (at cone #2).

3) T-Drill: Set the cones up to look like a T. The athlete starts at the bottom of the T (cone #1). Sprint forward 10 yards to cone #2. At the cone side shuffle left 5 yards to cone #3. Plant at cone #3 and side shuffle 10 yards to cone #4. Plant again at cone #4 and side shuffle 5 yards back to cone #2. Cut at cone #2 and sprint back to the beginning to cone #1.

4) X-Factor: Set the cones up in a square pattern with each cone 10 yards apart. The athlete starts at cone #1 and sprints 10 yards to cone #2. At cone #2 the athlete plants and sprints diagonally to cone #4. Cut at cone #4 and sprint 10 yards up to cone #3. At cone #3 the athlete plants again and sprints diagonally back to cone #1.

5) Tennis Ball Drop: A coach or training partner holds a tennis ball shoulder height. When the ball is released, you must catch the ball before it bounces a second time. The coach/training partner can change the distance they are standing or change the height of where they drop the tennis ball.

Variety: By changing your starting position, you can make this drill more challenging. Positions: athletic stance, push-up position, on one knee, athletic position faced sideways, only have the athlete shuffle to get the ball, opponents (first one to catch the ball wins).

6) Ali Shuffle

Start with your right foot in the first box facing the ladder from the side. Now rotate your hips quickly and replace your right foot with your left foot. Your right foot is now outside of the ladder. Rotate your hips quickly again and bring your right foot into the second box (this will move your left foot out of the first box and outside of the ladder). Repeat sequence to the end of the ladder.

7) Icky Shuffle

Starting on the right side of the ladder, take a side step with your left foot in the first box of the ladder. The right foot follows and steps in the same box while the left foot takes a lateral step outside the ladder. The right foot then advances up to next box and is quickly replaced by the left foot, while the right foot is stepping laterally outside the ladder. Repeat sequence to the end of the ladder.

8) Brake Run

The left foot will start in the first box of the ladder and the right foot will head into the second box. Repeat this sequence until you are halfway through the ladder. At the halfway point, now you are placing two feet in each box until the end of the ladder. Repeat leading with your right foot next set.

9) In/Out Lateral

Start facing sideways towards ladder with your right foot in the first box. Quickly place your left foot in the same box. You right foot then moves out of the ladder and the left foot follows. The right foot leads into the second box and the left foot follows in the same box. Repeat sequence to the end of the ladder. Next set lead with your left foot.

10) Lateral

Start sideways at the beginning of the ladder. Your right foot will move into the first box where your left foot will follow. Your right foot will lead all the way to the end of the ladder placing both feet in each box. Repeat facing the opposite direction with your left foot leading.

For the latest training tips, programs, cutting edge strength and conditioning news, speed training, and much more, visit http://www.AthletesAcceleration.com/sportstrainingzone.html For speed training and athletic development information to develop the fastest soccer players possible go to http://www.CompleteSpeedTraining.com Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Patrick_Beith

Soccer Skills - Crossing - Do Want To Learn How To Cross Like David Beckham

By Maverick Jensen

What is crossing?

Crossing is the skill of delivering a pass either in the air or along the ground, into the center where a team mate may have a chance to shoot at goal. It can be a potentially crucial part of the game as the team with the better chances generally wins.l

Styles Of Crossing

The Out-swinging cross:
The most common cross found in football, due to wingers generally play on same side as their stronger foot. The curl is generated when the ball is stuck with the inside of the foot in like a sweeping motion, applying side spin to the ball. In general, depending upon your position you should be aiming for the goal side of the penalty spot far enough away from the keeper so he can't punch or catch it. This technique has the advantages of the ball moving away from the keeper and as the ball curls back towards on coming attackers, which makes it's easier to generate pace.

The In-swinging cross:
Usually executed when a player turn or cuts back, and crosses with their opposite foot. These crosses force strikers to loose their marker and attack the ball. These are easier for the keeper to come off his line and punch or catch the ball. The ball has usually got less pace on the ball due to the fact the ball is generally struck with the weaker foot.

The Chipped Cross:
Done most easily when the crosser is standing still. The crosser chips the ball by stabbing at the ball with the front of their boot, creating back spin and loft. This tactic can be good for a team with a tall striker that has aerial dominance over there defender. This can be used as a surprise tactic as the situations to use this technique are rare.

Ground Cross:
More of a powerful pass, it can be curled or not curled, and is done when (open) attackers are close to the crosser and he has no better options. The attacker can then turn and shoot, or execute another cross or pass to another player.

This article has only scratched the surface of what you could possibly learn. To learn a lot more please visit http://www.footballsmart.890m.com. For fitness and conditioning articles please visit http://footballsmart.890m.com/PlyometricTraining.html Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Maverick_Jensen

International Soccer Camps - Building Intercultural Competence for the Next Generation

By Joey Bilotta 

You want your kids to have every opportunity to succeed in this world. You want them to learn self-discipline, how to be healthy, and to gain an appreciation and understanding for the world around them. The business world is becoming increasingly globalized. Intercultural competence, the skill which allows people to operate effectively in an international setting, is becoming ever more important.

What better way to ensure your kids are ready for the "real world" than to make sure they know how to navigate a variety of different cultures? And what better way to introduce them to the concept by using a sport they already know and love: soccer?

Soccer (or football) is the most popular international sport. Millions of people all across the globe eagerly play it and keep up with it, and international soccer camps bring students from every nation together.

Get your kids ahead of the game with an international soccer camp. Here's what to look for to make sure your camp is providing the most in terms of both soccer and intercultural competence.

Immersive language classes

If you're looking into international soccer exchange programs, immersive language classes are a must. These classes are taught completely in the native language of whichever country the soccer camp is in. The only way to truly learn a different language is to be completely absorbed in it. If your child visits Italy, he should hear nothing but Italian. If she's in Spain, she should hear Spanish 24 hours a day. These language classes should be as intensive as soccer training.

The younger your child is, the easier it is for them to pick up new languages. Some international soccer camps allow children as young as 10 to enroll, so if you really want to give your kids a good grasp of other languages, consider letting them enroll then.

Cultural excursions

Something that makes perfect sense in another culture may seem strange or rude to us. In some Hispanic cultures, for example, unflattering nicknames are commonly assigned to friends and associates, but at the same time they are not meant as insults. An example would be "flaco" (skinny) or "huesos" (bones), used when referring to slender people.

Check with the camp's director and see if your kids will get a chance to see more of the country than just the soccer field and the four walls of a classroom. Intercultural competence isn't going to be fully learned there. Students need to get out and experience daily life in that country and culture. They need to come to learn its slang and its quirks. An international soccer camp that emphasizes intercultural competence won't keep its students stuck inside all day.

Intensive soccer training

The best international soccer camps will put just as much focus on the "soccer" part as they do the "international" part. Practices should be held daily, or even twice a day, for at least two hours. Professional coaches should be teaching the students during these practices, and like everything else, they should be in the country's native language.

Give them the tools they need to succeed

You want them to have a well-rounded education that gets them ahead in the work force. They want to learn more about their favorite sport. With an international soccer camp, you get the best of both worlds. Your kids get the soccer training they want, and even better, they get an in-depth cultural experience that will put them ahead of the curve. Even if they decide on a different career than professional soccer, with immersive international experience, they'll always have the skills to outmaneuver the competition.

About the Author Get your student athlete started on the path to intercultural competence today. Visit EduKick.com to see which international soccer camps are right for your child. Joey Bilotta is the vice president of EduKick, a soccer boarding school exchange program. They host international soccer schools and camps in Europe, Brazil, Mexico, and China. Visit them online at http://www.edukick.com to sign up. Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Joey_Bilotta

Soccer Practice Planning Recommendations for Coaching Success

By Scott Carlson 

Training a team correctly involves planning practices that are both fun and informative for players. If players are not entertained, they are not likely to pay attention, which will obviously make it very difficult for them to learn. However, the drills must involve a skill element in order for players to improve their game, which are repetitious, and can be boring. The objective is finding the right mix for your team, which is dependent on the age group, competitiveness and other important factors.

Take the example of Coach Wing Init. He never plans practice beforehand, and instead spends the entire practice scrimmaging. While practice may be fun for the players, this is not going to get the players high numbers of touches on the ball, and the uninterested players will surely disengage. These practices are clearly not educational enough for players to learn and progress.

Compare this to Coach Bo Ring, who spends 95% of practice time doing drills that do not inspire creativity, and do not give players a chance to learn by doing. Avoid the pitfalls of each and structure your soccer practices in a way that mixes both fun and work.

Educational skills drills, followed by high energy small sided game element drills give players a chance to work on what they have learned. If you focus players attention on improving during the game element what you have previously worked on in the skills drills, pretty soon they will do it without even thinking. Quality soccer practices are designed with the intention of evolving the play of your players, both individually and collectively.

If you are a volunteer soccer coach, you owe it to your players to challenge and inspire their play. Soccer Season Outsourced will help you transform your team from a bunch of individuals into the powerhouse of your league. It is a book with Check it out at http://www.soccerdrillbook.com/soccer-drills-practice-plans Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Scott_Carlson

Football Dribbling Tips

By Maverick Jensen

If you're attacking, you don't get as exhausted as when you're defending.

Football dribbling is something that you as football player need to know. Dribbling isn't just about getting around your opposer. Alternatively, there are a lot of additional little features that you need to master if you want to improve you dribbling skills. In this part of football-training-guide you will know precisely how to become a effective dribbler.

Use your football dribbling skills in right situations

You shouldn't only dribble to show people how skillful you are, alternatively apply your talent by playing smart. You need also to bear in mind to never dribble if you have an unmarked teammate near you. Passing the ball safely to a near teammate is more effectively than a dribbling solo raid. The best rule is to never dribble in your own half. However, you should try to dribble frequently in your opponent's 18 yard box

The reward with dribbling is that your opponents won't know what you aim to do next. To stop you, opponents will need to work out which direction you will most likely take.

Try to relax

Football dribbling is not just about how proficient you are with ball; you need also to have a lot of self-confidence in yourself. Whilst dribbling you must actually think that you can go around your defender.

try not to panic every time you get the ball. Alternatively, be calm and try to work out the best way to get around your opponent.

How to find your opponents weak side?

Your opponents will always have a weak side; it is up to you to detect it. But before expending a lot time on analyzing your opponents let me give you a little hint: Try to check whether your opponent is right or left handed.

Now you may wonder what your opponents hand has to do with dribbling your opponent or not, I mean, aren't we discussing football dribbling here? Of course we are discussing soccer dribbling but to locate your opponent's weak side, you need to know his/her weak leg, and how do you find that out?

Well, if you dare you could just ask him or you could use another smart way to figure it out. Just check whether he/she is left or right handed. Now you may wonder you should know if your opponent is right or left handed?

Well if your opponent is right handed his/her left leg will normally be weaker, and if he/she is left handed his/her right leg will be the weaker one. Your opponent will also have more problems in handling the ball using his/her weak leg, so watch out for this!

Do not trust completely on this advice. There are skillful opponents that can handle the ball pretty well with both feet, therefore, watch carefully before deciding what leg is the weak one.

Finally, don't forget this one: To pass the ball to an unmarked teammate is much more efficient than trying to dribble through a wall of opponents.

http://www.footballsmart.890m.com Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Maverick_Jensen

Athletic Skills - The Groundwork for Athletic Success

By Ron Usher

Imagine building a house. A tall beautiful house. You want the house to stand for a long time; to withstand heat, cold and wind.

What's the first thing you do? You don't start building the frame, do you? You don't even start building the foundation.

The first thing you do is make sure the ground is prepared.

Like a house, so an athlete.

Our kids are coming to soccer unprepared. Too much TV, too much video games, too little outdoor playtime are taking a toll. A few kids get it. They excel in sports.

Most kids don't. They are always a step behind. They get frustrated and eventually quit.

What as a concerned parent can you do? Lots. Here's some tips to help you work with your child.

1. Start an exercise routine. Do it with your child five to ten minutes a day. It doesn't have to be hard or difficult. Not only will they (and you) receive physical benefits, they will learn to put extra time in for their fitness. Consider it homework for their body.

2. Work on Strength. Push-ups (modified for most) for upper body strength, sit-up and variations for core strength, and squats for leg strength.

3. Develop Balance. Practice standing on one foot and touching the ground. Or stand on one foot and throw a ball back and forth.

4. Build Endurance. Do bear crawls or crab walks. Even indoors, these are great exercises. Not only do they develop endurance and strength, they are fun. Bear crawls are walking on your hands and feet like a bear. Crab walks are the same but upside down. The stomach is towards the ceiling.

By spending a little bit of time with your child, they will start to develop the groundwork they need for soccer success. They will also develop self-confidence and you'll be building quality bonding time.

One final tip. Always keep it fun. Play music, compete, and challenge each other. Make it a family activity.

To receive my special report on what all soccer parents need to know go to http://www.athleticskillsforsoccer.com You'll also be signed up for my newsletter which is loaded with tips to help you work with your child. To Fit and Healthy Kids Ron Usher http://www.athleticskillsforsoccer.com Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Ron_Usher

Spring Soccer Training

By Wade Boden

It is finally warming up and we are ready to get out and play. The big game that I am looking forward to this Spring is soccer. Soccer is not a very popular sport in the United States, however, its popularity is rapidly increasing. On the worldwide aspect, it is probably the most played sport.

Getting out after a cold winter can be hard. One must begin to condition and train after months of avoiding the outdoors due to the bitter cold. For soccer, which is perhaps the most demanding sport of any, training in essential before going in to the games. This is because players are expected to play for 45 minutes periods without breaks. During these 45 minutes, they must walk, jog, run, and sprint. For this reason, endurance and fitness training is the most important aspect of training for a soccer player.

The second area to focus in training for the soccer season is the train technical skills. Juggling is a great training technique for ball control. This will allows players to train their ball controll skills, increase balance and agility, and train muscles that are used specifically for soccer. Another important training technique is to practice dribbling the ball. You should learn how to move quickly without loosing control of the ball. The last technique that I would mention is to practice shooting the ball. Learn how to kick under control and with power. This will be very important when it comes game time and you have the open shot.

The last area of training is mental training. Have a positive attitude. Don't get frustrated. Make yourself feel like you are a great soccer player. Have a solid understanding of the game. Think ahead of time how you will react in certain situations that you might encounter on the field. Learn how others play and be able to react to their styles to improve everyone as a whole.

Wade Boden is the Artwork Director of Robbins Sports, an online resource for Portable Soccer Goals, Soccer Uniforms, and Gym Bags. Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Wade_Boden

Youth Soccer Gear - Forget Hand Me Downs

By Wayne MacLean 

Prevent injuries with proper youth soccer gear.

Youth soccer players do need the same type of equipment as more mature soccer players. But, it is important that their gear fits properly. Children will get more enjoyment from the game, and will be less likely to injure themselves.

Youth soccer gear includes a solid pair of soccer cleats, well-fitting soccer shorts, and socks that match the team jersey. Soccer shinguards will provide lower leg protection, and a soccer jersey, to top it off. Let's look a little deeper at each item of youth soccer gear.

Soccer Cleats and Shoes

Cleat or shoe types include removable cleats, molded cleats, indoor soccer shoes and turf shoes:

• Molded Cleats have non-removable, pre-formed rubber or plastic cleats on the bottom. Metal cleats are not allowed. They can be used on all outdoor field types but will not perform as well on turf, or wet, soggy fields.
  
  
  



• Removable Cleats are made of a hard plastic. These studs can be replaced as they wear down. Players of a higher skill level usually use this type of cleat on longer grass, or wet soggy fields.
  
  
  



• Indoor soccer shoes look similar to a sneaker, but they are very different. They are made with exclusive compounds in the sole that provide improved grip over sneakers. They are cut lower to prevent rolling off the ankles as your child makes the moves that soccer requires. They are made for firm surfaces like gyms, but not for indoor artificial turf.
  
  
  



• Turf Shoes are specifically for playing on artificial turf. It doesn't matter if it is indoor or outdoor turf. The sole has been specially designed with studs that are shorter than molded or removable cleats. They are multi-directional in nature. This helps provide the grip necessary for playing on artificial turf.

Shinguards

Soccer shin guards are made from a variety of materials. These materials can include:

• Plastic.
  
  
  



• Polyurethane.
  
  
  



• Foam rubber.
  
  
  



• Fiberglass.
  
  
  



• Foam/lycra.

Shin guards are required as part of youth soccer gear and one of the best ways to prevent injury. In soccer most of the action is at your feet. It is sometimes suggested that different positions need to wear a different type of shin guard. I will provide the information, but only you and your child can decide what is best.

• Defenders - thicker model with more protection.


• Midfielders - protective, lightweight, and more rounded in style.


• Forwards - more ankle protection and very light.

This guide will be helpful in choosing the proper shin guard size for your child:

• X-Small: up to a height of 3 feet 9 inches


• Small: up to a height of 4 feet 5 inches


• Medium: up to a height of 5 feet 1 inch


• Large: over 5 feet 2 inches

Youth Soccer Socks

These socks are not much different from the socks that older players wear. They are just smaller. They are needed to hold the shin guards in place, and to match the team's uniform.

Less expensive socks are usually made from a polyester-acrylic blend. Sometimes cotton is added for comfort, but don't expect a lot of cotton. But you can find 100% cotton socks.

Choosing top quality socks made with synthetic microfibers will pull perspiration away from the foot. They will have a padded sole to enhance foot comfort as well.

TIP - If your child's foot sweats a great deal, put talcum powder or foot powder in the sock to help soak it up. This will help prevent blisters.

Youth Soccer Jerseys

Most jerseys today are made from a combination of light-weight microfibers that are and do not absorb much moisture. When it comes to youth soccer, the team or association usually supplies the jerseys. So for that reason, I will leave the jersey choosing to you and your soccer association. Unless you are looking for replica soccer jerseys.

Soccer Shorts

Even though they may be cool to your kids, baggy shorts are not good for the soccer field. If they are too long, they can restrict easy movement. If this happens your child may get injured, or may not play up to their ability. The less restriction, the better it is for their game. They also have to fit your team's uniform. Some associations will provide shorts and socks as part of the team uniform.

If you use this information as a guide you should be able to get the right youth soccer gear for your child.

Wayne MacLean has over 30 years of experience in the game of soccer. As a soccer coach, soccer player, soccer referee, and all-around soccer fan, Wayne is now adding a new dimension to his love of soccer. He now writes many articles and creates soccer videos to help those that are involved in soccer, are new to soccer, or just want to know more about soccer. Check out my Youth Soccer Gear page. Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Wayne_MacLean

Soccer Uniforms - Look Great While You Play Great

By Wayne MacLean 

Soccer uniforms are worn by millions of soccer players around the world every day.

They wear the colors and logos of professional soccer teams, or a color scheme of their own club. The options are endless.

If you are helping your child's youth soccer team to pick out uniforms, or are new to the game, you should understand that a soccer uniform is more than just a soccer jersey.

The uniform consists of:

Soccer Jersey

Soccer Shorts

Soccer Socks

The Soccer Jersey

Choosing a soccer jersey color will depend on your local clubs preferences, or of course your team's sponsor. You can now get your uniforms in any color or design that you want. Be bold if you like. This is your team's identity we are talking about.

Most jerseys now are made from synthetic material that will prevent moisture from being absorbed. However these will be more expensive.

If your team wants to be more traditional you could go with the original. Cotton. Just remember that on rainy days the cotton will really suck up the water and weigh you down.

Soccer Shorts

The soccer shorts should complement the color scheme of the jersey. They also should not be extremely baggy as this will not help your performance. You don't want them to bunch up and cause you to trip, ever!

Baggy shorts may be all the rage, but they don't belong on the soccer field. Choose a length that is comfortable enough so that players get freedom to make the moves that they will need to make during a game. The last thing a soccer player wants is to feel that their movement is restricted.

Soccer Socks

These socks are knee high and flexible so they will serve the tow purposes for which they were designed. They should complement the jersey and shorts, and they have to be long and strong enough to hold your soccer shinguards in place.

Soccer Goalies

Keep in mind that soccer goalies wear a uniform that is different than the field player. Soccer goalies must wear a color that is different from their own team, and the opposing team, so a referee can easily identify the goalkeeper.

A soccer goalie also gets to wear a long sleeve shirt, with some elbow padding, and shorts that usually have some padding on the sides. This helps to absorb some of the pressure of those frequent dives for the ball. They will sometimes wear long goalkeeper pants depending on field and weather conditions.

Goalkeepers also get to wear goalkeeper gloves to ensure that they get a good grip on those shots that rain down on them.

Wayne MacLean has over 30 years of experience in the game of soccer. As a soccer coach, soccer player, soccer referee, and all-around soccer fan, Wayne is now adding a new dimension to his love of soccer. He now writes many articles and creates soccer videos to help those that are involved in soccer, are new to soccer, or just want to know more about soccer. Check out my Soccer Uniforms page. Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Wayne_MacLean

Soccer Goalies - Where Would You Be Without Them?

By Wayne MacLean 

The Last Line of Defense

Without your fearless soccer goalies, where would you be? They may scream at you, but that is part of their job, and maybe you deserve it? And I am sure that you are not going to go back there and dive on the ground, and on other bodies, to save the ball.

As the soccer goalie you do get some special privileges. You are the only one who can legally use your hands in soccer. Of course you can only do that in the penalty area, also known as the 18 yard box.

Putting It On The Line

Yes, soccer goalies do put it on the line:

• Dive hard to keep the ball from going into the net. And sometimes the field is pretty hard.


• Jump into the air trying to win the challenge for the ball. And other players often land on them.


• They will face down a shooter from just 12 yards away on penalty kicks. 12 yards! And you expect them to stop that penalty kick every time.

They should be respected.

What a Goalkeeper Needs

Soccer goalies, like all soccer players, will need the right soccer goalkeeper gear in order to play properly. Some people will call it soccer goalkeeper equipment. I leave that up to you. What soccer goalies need:

• A durable, comfortable pair of soccer cleats, or soccer shoes. It will depend on the playing surface


• Soccer shin guards will protect their lower legs.


• Soccer socks to cover the shin guards and keep them in place.


• Padded soccer shorts or goalie pants. These have padded hips to absorb the impact from dives and falls.


• A soccer goalie jersey. It is always a different color than your team's jersey. This is so the referee can distinguish you from every other player. These also have padded elbows to reduce the shock of impact with other players and the ground.


• Soccer goalie gloves will provide that extra grip you need to make those fingertip saves.
  
  
  

The Difference

A skilled soccer goalkeeper can make the difference between winning and losing. Their priority is to stop the ball. Obviously, as a soccer player you can help him by keeping the ball out of your end, or covering for him when he leaves his line to win the ball.

However, a soccer goalkeeper must train differently than other players due to his unique role. Performing special soccer goalkeeper drills and using medicine type balls for practice will help you to keep balls out of your net.

Keys To The Position

There are some basic keys that will get a goalie started off on the right foot, no matter what level you play at.

• Use your hands to form a "W" in front of you. Put your thumbs together and your index (first) finger together. Face your palms toward the shooter. Applying this technique when facing a shot head on will prevent the ball from slipping between your hands.


• Let the ball meet your hands. Do not try to grab the ball as if you are trying to squash a mosquito between your hands.


• Keep your body between you and the soccer goal.


• When you catch the ball bring it tightly into your body and cradle it. Or of you end up on the ground, protect that ball as if it was gold. You do not want any chance that the ball may come loose or drop to the ground, because you are always very close to the goal if you can grab the ball.


• Stay balanced. Mentally and physically.

Not Just For Defense

Although we have been talking about how this position is about stopping the ball, it doesn't end or begin there. Soccer goalkeepers can start a play build-up with a punt, or by tossing the ball to another player.

Haven't you seen a goalkeeper leave his goal for a corner kick late in the game? They can scores goals too! Traditionally keepers have made very good strikers. Is it their independent attitude? Or maybe because strikers and goalkeepers face each other often in a 1 vs 1 situation?

Leadership Role

Many goalkeepers will be made the captain of their team. Besides, who sees more of the field than a goalkeeper? And he is the boss in the 18 yard box, so do what the keeper says. If you don't, you could get hurt by your own goalie. So be sure to work out a communication with your goalkeeper. If he calls the ball, let him have it. He can see, you may not see him.

Wayne MacLean has over 30 years of experience in the game of soccer. As a soccer coach, soccer player, soccer referee, and all-around soccer fan, Wayne is now adding a new dimension to his love of soccer. He now writes many articles and creates soccer videos to help those that are involved in soccer, are new to soccer, or just want to know more about soccer. Check out my Soccer Goalies page. Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Wayne_MacLean