EQUIPMENT:

How Do I Get Started?

The first thing you will need is a ball.

Try to buy a leather ball because this is what you will be using when you join a club,and they last longer. If you are in the 13-15 age group, buy a Size 5 ball. Good quality soccer balls have a special plastic coating to stop the ball getting too heavy when it's wet. It is probably a good idea to ask your sports teacher at school and your local sports-shop owner which ball they recommend.

Pump the ball up hard enough so that you can push it in a little with both thumbs for the technically minded, to a weight of 400g to 450g, and a pressure of 0.6 to 1. 1 bar. If the ball is too soft or too hard, it will make some of the games later in the book a bit too difficult.

Boots are essential if you're playing in a team but you don't really need them if you are just having a game in the local park with friends.

Boots should be close fitting and comfortable. It is better to buy boots with a multi-studded sole because Australian grounds are often hard. Boots should be made of soft leather. Most sports shops have a range of boots to suit your budget. Ask your friends what boots they have and get some advice from your sports teacher at school.

Remember before you do a lot of training or running in your boots, you will need to "wear them in"-that is, wear them for a short time each day. This will avoid blisters.

Shinpads are essential if you are going to play in a competitive game. When you think about it, it's pretty sensible-saves lots of bruises on your shins! Get them from a sport shop.
If you want to train with a team, you might need to buy soccer gear (shirts, shorts and socks). You don't have to buy the most expensive gear it's more important that it fits and is comfortable. The team will tell you what you need to buy and what the club will supply you with.

The Next Step!
Now you have a ball and perhaps hoots, shinpads and some soccer gear. The next step is to go and play with some friends in the local park, or organize a friendly informal game at school in your lunch break. This hook gives you lots of ideas on how to become a better soccer player-it is up to you to work at improving your skills.