| As USA ends a hard fought World Cup game against | | | | hydration, including electrolytes during the game can |
| the high ranked England, I couldn't help thinking about | | | | lead to a better energy throughout the game. |
| my own children playing soccer. How would it feel to | | | | 4. Proper Preparation: As with many sports, the |
| have my child play inthe World Cup? How would I feel | | | | conditioning of a player is imperative. For a regular |
| just to see any of them play on that amazing stage? | | | | soccer game, a player will run approximately 5 or 6 |
| More importantly, how do I help my children continue to | | | | miles, so a player should be prepared to perform at |
| love the game and play at their top level. | | | | this level during a typical match. |
| So, how can we help them perform at their top level? I | | | | 5. Dynamic Stretching: A proper warmup involves |
| will give you the top 6 ways I help my children perform | | | | dynamic stretching. Dynamic stretching includes |
| at the top level (while still having fun): | | | | stretching the muscles while moving (running or |
| 1. The Soccer Boot: Like most sports, soccer should | | | | walking). Static stretching is more common, but usually |
| be done with the correct shoegear (the soccer cleat | | | | doesn't properly prepare the muscle for match |
| or boot as it is often called). The design of the boot will | | | | conditions. |
| allow correct functioning of the foot, better traction on | | | | 6. Play To Have Fun: When the game becomes a |
| the field and limit the most common injuries to the foot. | | | | chore, most players don't play as well. My |
| It also facilitates the correct biomechanics of kicking. | | | | recommendation is to play hard, but have fun. It is |
| 2. Shin Guard: Most leagues recommend (and may | | | | usually obvious to see when a player is having fun and |
| demand) shin guard use. This is a protection of the | | | | they always play better. |
| front of the ankle to avoid bruising or even fractures to | | | | Using these techniques, my children are loving to play |
| the tibia (shin bone). Many shin guards also provide | | | | soccer and are improving regularly. I continue to cheer |
| some protection to the bones of an ankle. | | | | and coach them at whatever level they are playing |
| 3. Proper Nutrition: Proper hydration and diet eaten | | | | from recreation to competition levels and now even |
| 30-45 minutes before warmup can lead to more | | | | high school soccer. What a great game for my |
| energy during the game. Proper carbohydrate use and | | | | children! Go USA! |