Football is played in almost every country in the world, and watched by millions. From junior games to top international matches, it is a game that is talked about, analysed and re-lived by players and supporters long after the ninety minutes is over. So where does it all start? | ||||||||||||||
Where to learnGetting StartedMost young people who enjoy football, will start to kick a ball around with friends at school, in the park, in a back garden - anywhere. Young children make up their own rules, but really they are practising the moves they see on television. Watching and then practising what you have seen is a good way to learn. If you play football during games lessons at school, your teacher will introduce you to the rules of the game and you will practise some of the basic football skills (See Team Talk: Basic Skills).
Improving your skills The costs vary but can be as little as £1 per session. Holiday coaching schemes may charge by the day and costs for these range from around £5 - £10 per day. |
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Joining a ClubWhen to joinThere are thousands of amateur clubs throughout the country and all of them run teams for different age groups. If you are interested in playing for a team, find a club that plays locally - friends at school will probably know of one. Go along and watch the team at the beginning of the season and talk to their manager about joining. Most junior clubs will register new players any time during the year, but a good time to join them is at the beginning of the football season, in August or September. This is when teams organise their squads.
Teams
Membership Most clubs raise money through raffles and social events for their members. This helps towards the costs of running the teams. The committee use these funds to provide team kits for their players. Presentation nights are held at the end of each season where clubs award trophies to some or all of their players.
Local contacts
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Competitive FootballSchool TeamsMany junior schools and most secondary school run teams who play against other schools. Go along to training sessions to try for a place on the team.
Club Teams
District and Regional Teams Exceptional players within a district may go for trials at one of the top amateur or professional clubs. Competition for places at this level is fierce and only the most outstanding players are selected to join a team.
Professional Football |
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