Why Your Child Should Play Soccer

Brandon Reinstein, February 12th, 2018 2:19 AM MST

Youth sports, in general, carry undeniable benefits in the development of youth and young adults. Beyond the obvious fun factor, children participating in sports are developing social skills and learning to work with others towards a common goal. This is a skill that will help them later on in life. The ability to interact with others to achieve set goals is vital in almost any task in the adult world.

All that being said, why soccer specifically? Part of the reason soccer should be on every parent's radar is cost and accessibility. While some of the more popular sports require very specific (and expensive) equipment and facilities, a young soccer player interested in trying the sport needs only a ball, some open space, and some shoes. In Boise, a parent can put their child in a recreational league for a season, equipment included, for less than $100 dollars a year. That's hard to beat, particularly when looking that costs of sports such as football, hockey, and basketball. Furthermore, soccer practices will allow parents time to get other things done, or even take some time for themselves!

Finally, soccer requires not only that players stay in top shape physically, but mentally as well. Soccer has no set plays or time-outs. Players must learn to think and react quickly, and communicate effectively with their teammates under pressure and time constraints. The nature of this sport ensures that your child won't be aimlessly be chasing a ball around a field, but instead will be working out both their body and mind.