Get to Know the Basics of Youth Soccer
Are you a new parent cheering on your little one in their soccer games? Understanding the language of the sport can make the experience even more exciting. Here’s a beginner’s guide to soccer terminology that will have you shouting with confidence from the sidelines!
Field Essentials
Soccer Field
- The field where the action happens, complete with goalposts at each end.
Touch Line
- The sidelines that run the length of the field.
Center Circle
- This is the circle in the middle of the field where the game starts and restarts.
Player Positions
Goalkeeper
- The player who guards the goal and is the only one allowed to use their hands within the penalty area.
Field Player
- Any player on the team besides the goalkeeper.
Game Moves
Dribbling
- Running while maintaining control of the ball at your feet.
Pass
- Sending the ball to a teammate.
Shoot
- Attempting to kick the ball into the opponent’s goal to score.
Game Play
Corner Kick
- A kick taken from the corner of the field when the ball goes out of play off a defending player.
Throw In
- The method used to continue play after the ball goes out of bounds, where a player must throw the ball back in from where it exited the field.
Scoring and Defense
Goal
- Scored when the entire ball crosses the goal line.
Save
- A goalkeeper’s action to prevent the other team from scoring.
Game Situations
Free Kick
- A kick awarded after a foul, where the team can attempt to score directly from the kick.
Penalty Kick
- Awarded after a major foul in the penalty area, allowing a direct shot on goal.
Soccer Lingo
Scrimmage
- A practice game or match for training purposes.
Mark Up
- When a player is instructed to closely cover an opponent during play.
Now that you’re familiar with some important soccer terms, you can confidently support your young athlete as they kick off their soccer journey! Stay engaged, cheer loud, and most importantly, have fun!