Soccer is easy to learn. Young kids do not need to be taught to run or kick a ball. It comes naturally like walking and breathing. The objective of the game is simple, get that round thing in the ol onion bag. The requirements are a round ball and two legs that will bend at the knees. The pace of the game allows it to hold the attention of the kids who frequently get bored playing other sports.

Soccer doesn’t discriminate against gender. Boys and girls of all shapes and sizes can play the game. The continuous action and pace of the game allows kids to develop their fitness, build stamina and strength. 2 in every 5 kids are overweight. Studies suggest that children who participate in organised sport are more likely to adopt healthy lifestyles. By allowing your kids to play soccer they develop

• Endurance
• Muscular Strength
• Flexibility
• Co-ordination
• Balance
• Weight Control
• and Social Skills.

Let your children play organised sports. Let them play Soccer. Why would you deny them the chance to physically and mentally excel.

Personally I’ve been involved in Soccer since I was 4 years old. It could’ve been earlier but the memory doesn’t extend further than the age of 4. Through my personal experience and the accumulation of memories, these are my 10 Commandments for Kids Soccer. These are open to debate, modification and are good building block for soccer ethics. I haven’t pulled these from the top of my head, they have come to me after 30 years of mistakes, errors and victories. Also note that these are not placed in any specific order and I’m sure many of you will disagree. This list is not the law but it makes for a healthy association with soccer.

The 10 Commandments of Kids Soccer

Thou shall respect all opponents, officials and spectators. This is not negotiable. At the end of the day we are all human beings playing the game we love, Soccer.

Thou shall not criticize any player for an error or mistake. As human beings it is our right to make mistakes. Great lessons can be learnt from mistakes. The greatest players in the world have failed more times than they have succeeded. This also includes the referees, coaches and parents.

Thou shall practice. You cannot progress or develop if you do not practice. “Practice makes perfect”. They way you practice will inevitably reflect your match day performance.

Thou shall respect the Laws of the Game. If you do not know the laws and rules of the game, learn them. Remember the game was never about you. It’s the world game.

Honour your opponent. Never try to deliberately hurt anyone during the game.

Honour the referee. The referee is always right, even if his wrong.

You shall not dive or be dishonest. Teach kids from a young age that gamesmanship is far more important than simply winning.

Always honour your team. The team you play for should be an extension of your family. Treat players in your team as you would your family.

Thou shall always SMILE and embrace soccer and the beauty of life.