Soccer is a world wide renowned sport as it is a fast game and the equipment required are not too expensive. The passion of the game could be felt at the field when the viewers themselves participate in the game rather just watching it out.

Soccer is a wide-ranging game. It could be played just for simple recreation that requires just a piece of spare ground and a round ball, which could be kicked-out easily. But if it is an organized game then the player and the game require a couple of equipments. To start the game all you really need are just a ball, goal and field.

The basic requirement of the game is the ball. Football can be played with many makeshift balls. But for the organized and official matches formalized soccer balls are used. Now a day many companies are introducing the balls made of new materials that provide more accurate flight along with more power to be transferred to the football. The ball used is around 27-28 inches around. The ball's weight must not exceed 16 ounces neither it should be less than 14 ounces. It is constructed from suitable material with 32 pentagonal panels. Soccer ball in a range of sizes and varying quality could be purchased. The selection basically depends upon the age group skill level.

Soccer goals are the essential part of the game. A wide range of goals is available but it should be chosen according to the space, age of the player, and type of game to be played. These are generally made of metal (having heavy weight and used for permanent soccer field) or of plastic (light weighted, could be used for portable fields, suits for practices and adjustable in small areas). The net used in the Goal, is usually made up of hand knotted cotton or nylon cord. Basically it is a net attached to the crossbar and the ground. This crossbar containing net is connected to the two posts, which are placed 8 yards apart. The net is simply at hand to contain the ball. Now day's soccer goal net clips are also available for protection. Nets are also available in various colors and patterns.

Goals must be securely anchored, as the unsecured goals can fall over causing some injury. The entire fastening should be done tightly and checked periodically for its safe utilization.

To have better traction on grass the players make use of cleats (studs). These are about half an inch in width. For the safety purpose use of long, sharp cleats is not allowed and these cleats should not stick out more than one-half inch beyond the sole or heel of the shoe.

Players also use shinguards under their socks while playing to protect the shin. The goalie wears the uniform having different color than the rest so that he could be distinguished from the others easily. He may use the gloves and other specialized clothes also.

Rebounders are the effective source for fast paced shooting drill during practices as it acts as a partner. They are set to return the shot either on the ground or in the air. Ball return options could be set at various angles. This help to develop accuracy along with ball control skills and thus proves to be an invaluable tool.
Equipment bags, matching socks, jerseys, and shorts give an impressive and complete look for competitive match.

Alan Gibson
President
www.NipsWorld.co.uk