Time to get down to some basics!

Have you ever wondered why players on the same team have someone in a different color jersey?  Check out the 2 guys seen here in this picture:

I am here on the left in a soccer jersey from the Brazilian team "The Corinthians".  I picked this shirt up when I lived in Brazil.  Jonathan is in a soccer shirt and shin guards.  The reason that players on the same team have different shirts on is because the goalkeeper, (or goalie), is the only player that can hold the ball with his, or her, hands.  To let the referee know which one that is, a different color shirt is used to stand out in the middle of the action.  So, what about the number on the jersey?

 It is used by the referee to make a note of who has a "card", (Yellow card or Red card, will be discussed later), and to let officials and scorekeepers know who is coming in and leaving when a substitution is made.  In the first picture, Jonathan is #9.  In the second picture, I am wearing the #8.  Check back soon for more soccer tips before and during the upcoming season!

In the meantime . . .

As can clearly be seen by the picture here, the Iowa weather is making us wonder if the temperature will be high enough to enjoy the games outside.  In preparation for the start of the season on April 1st, here are a few suggestions to get yourself ready to hit the field running!

1: Prepare for the worst!

There is no guarantee that the weather will be at a comfortable level to enjoy playing the games outside.  Be sure to find warm jackets or coats, gloves, a change of shoes, a change of socks, (should you feet get wet), a blanket, small heating packs that can warm up your hands or feet.  I can't say that it will be cold, but we want to be ready so the kids don't get too cold and possibly sick and injured.


2: Bring extra water!

In hot weather or cold weather, staying hydrated is a must!  Illness and / or injury can result with playing while dehydrated.  Coaches usually don't bring extra water with them so it is a great idea to bring water with you, or at least a sports drink.  Even though soda pop tastes good, it usually leads to dehydration.  Water is best!

3: Stretch out those muscles!

In hot or cold temps, stretching will help keep you loose and ready to play.  This will also help you recover after playing a game or practicing.  Remembering these few suggestions can help keep you in the game!!!

Welcome to my Podcast: "Keep your eye on the goal!"

Brazil hosts the 2014 World Cup!

Exciting news from the soccer world!  The United States will join teams from across the globe to meet in Brazil to compete in the World Cup soccer tournament!  As with the Olympics, the World Cup is played every 4 years and the highly competitive soccer country of Brazil will host the games this year.  The Brazilians know soccer as "Futebol" (Foot - CHE - ball) which means football.  This is also how the world knows football.  The United States calls it soccer.  Any way you say it, it is a great opportunity to see the world's best play the game and it is a great chance to pick up on some pointers and see how offences and defenses set up on the field.  It is also a great opportunity to see other countries of the world come together in friendly competition.  It is so great to see the people of the world come together and share their culture with the world.  To check out the World Cup site to learn more about it, point your browser to http://www.fifa.com/worldcup/index.html or click on the link here: FIFA WORLD CUP SITE

Check back for updates on scores and standings.  Go team USA!