Written by: Soccer Garage
The rules of every soccer league in the United States stem from the rules set forth by FIFA, the governing body of world soccer clubs. FIFA dictates everything from what is allowed on the field, to how referees should position themselves to deal with a play unfolding. Those basic rules do get altered from place to place, so your particular school or league may have some subtle differences, but if you need a general shopping list then knowing the basic rules will suffice.
Basic Kits
Soccer clothes consist of shorts and shirts that are of matching team colors. It’s common for kids athletes to maintain a clean set for games and a practice set. In most children’s leagues, training sets consist of practice gear that does not have to match. Socks are also included, and tend to be worn up to the knee. Shin guards are typically placed below the socks, which help shock absorption during falls. Tackles aren’t standard for every age group, but shin guards are still good for those unexpected tumbles on the uneven grass.
Shoes
Soccer cleats tend to have some small rubber spikes protruding from the underside of the shoe. These are for grip on the grass, allowing players better control when they need to run or stop. Diadora soccer shoes, for instance, have specially designed stitching that lets players kick the ball a certain direction; although it does take practice to fully utilize this feature. Soccer cleats are also not as thick as average sneakers, and tend to provide more support around the ankles and heels.
Accessories
Other soccer supplies usually include padding and accessories for use off the field. Instant ice packs, for example, or water bottles. Shin guards are a must if there are tackles in the league. Most leagues do not allow bulky elbow guards, but thin, padded guards may be worn. Goalies will need shock-absorbent gloves to protect their hands from solid strikes.
You may also want to invest in some practice gear for your home, like a cone set or a ball leash.
What is Not Allowed
Jewelry is never allowed on the field, but glasses may be if they are secured to the face. FIFA has also made exceptions for sunglasses in the past, but referees have asked for their removal as well. This is largely up to league discretion. Uniforms must also match colors, with only the goalies and referees wearing different colors.
Related Story: A Treat for All Soccer Fans
Related Story: FIFA Laws of the Game
The rules of every soccer league in the United States stem from the rules set forth by FIFA, the governing body of world soccer clubs. FIFA dictates everything from what is allowed on the field, to how referees should position themselves to deal with a play unfolding. Those basic rules do get altered from place to place, so your particular school or league may have some subtle differences, but if you need a general shopping list then knowing the basic rules will suffice.
Basic Kits
Soccer clothes consist of shorts and shirts that are of matching team colors. It’s common for kids athletes to maintain a clean set for games and a practice set. In most children’s leagues, training sets consist of practice gear that does not have to match. Socks are also included, and tend to be worn up to the knee. Shin guards are typically placed below the socks, which help shock absorption during falls. Tackles aren’t standard for every age group, but shin guards are still good for those unexpected tumbles on the uneven grass.
Shoes
Soccer cleats tend to have some small rubber spikes protruding from the underside of the shoe. These are for grip on the grass, allowing players better control when they need to run or stop. Diadora soccer shoes, for instance, have specially designed stitching that lets players kick the ball a certain direction; although it does take practice to fully utilize this feature. Soccer cleats are also not as thick as average sneakers, and tend to provide more support around the ankles and heels.
Accessories
Other soccer supplies usually include padding and accessories for use off the field. Instant ice packs, for example, or water bottles. Shin guards are a must if there are tackles in the league. Most leagues do not allow bulky elbow guards, but thin, padded guards may be worn. Goalies will need shock-absorbent gloves to protect their hands from solid strikes.
You may also want to invest in some practice gear for your home, like a cone set or a ball leash.
What is Not Allowed
Jewelry is never allowed on the field, but glasses may be if they are secured to the face. FIFA has also made exceptions for sunglasses in the past, but referees have asked for their removal as well. This is largely up to league discretion. Uniforms must also match colors, with only the goalies and referees wearing different colors.
Related Story: A Treat for All Soccer Fans
Related Story: FIFA Laws of the Game