New players - Information for parents
Football has grown dramatically as a sport within Australia over the past few years with club registrations increasing year-on-year.
Introduction of the new small-sided-games format has increased the popularity of football with players now receiving more touches of the football and scoring a higher number of goals. Love Football wants to see football grow even more but in the right direction with quality coaching, facilities and football equipment. We have an extensive range of football coaching aids, kids soccer boots, kids soccer gear and also adult soccer gear online.
We have provided some general information that should help make the first years of playing a little more informed, a little more fun and a little less expensive! Which Club? There are many clubs, association, schools and “Elite Academies” around Australia and it can be a difficult process choosing the right club for your little Cahill /Foster.
If you are new to an area and have a son or daughter that is recognized as talented then we recommend talking to your local association as they should be able to guide you.
For the new /young player it is always a good idea to talk to other parents with children enrolled at various clubs.
Word of mouth and feedback from other parents can be the best source of information and once you have narrowed your choice, call the clubs Coaching Director, he or she should be only too happy to spare you a few minutes to discuss where your child would fit in at their club! Remember: be honest with yourself, if your child enjoys football but is an “average” player… do you really need to spend thousands of $ on expensive football coaching aids and “Elite” programs? Often there will be more pressure and this may take away the enjoyment for the player.
Which Boots?
With so many brands and styles of kids soccer boots available it can be confusing for the new player and parent to know what to choose!
New players do not necessarily require the top-of-the-range or most expensive soccer boots. Their feet will grow quickly and there is always the chance they may change their mind after a few weeks.
As a guide, parents should expect to spend between $40 -$100 per pair of boots, depending on the age of the player. · Do make sure that the player tries on both boots as most people with have one foot slightly bigger than the other.
· Do listen to your child, if there is a certain color / style they like perhaps because their favorite player wears them then try to compromise … if they feel good and think they look good then this will give them confidence and ensure they look forward to playing good! This does not mean you have to buy the $160 Beckham boots… just perhaps a kids soccer boot by that brand or similar colour. · Make sure you choose a store that has experienced staff that will understand the requirements of both you and the player…. If you are near a Love Football store then this is the obvious choice! Which Shin guards? Love Football encourages parents to purchase shin guards that have ankle supports built in so as to give extra protection. Most clubs now make the wearing of shin guards compulsory during matches and training sessions… try to get your child into the habit of wearing the in the same way they would wear a helmet when riding a bike.
Try on several pairs to make sure of a comfortable fit… not too loose but allowing a bit of movement on the shin. As a guide you can expect to pay between $10 -$25 for a pair of shin guards. Buy soccer gear online at our store.
General Do’s and Don'ts for parents 1. Do encourage and praise the player, no matter what their level of ability. 2. Do emphasise enjoyment, having fun and participation NOT the final score! 3. Do encourage from the sidelines, but leave coaching to the designated coach… this is most important for younger players. If the coach is giving instructions and yet they can hear mum or dad shouting “Get rid of the ball” don’t be surprised if they end up confused and do exactly what you’ve asked of them … but perhaps not to a member of their team! 4. Do encourage them to practice the skills they have learned (safely) at home or in the garden. Also make sure you get them the necessary football gear like soccer boots for kids, goal keeping gloves, shin guards, etc. Most soccer gear is available at our online store.
5. Don’t criticize your child’s performance in these early days of learning and playing, this will have a negative effect and may discourage them from playing… remember Football is supposed to be fun so do keep all comments constructive. 6. Don’t shout at officials, remember to lead by example. If the players see’s you berating an official or coach they will think it’s ok to do so. Our coaching team are happy to answer your questions - feel free to email us and we will do our best to reply within a day or 2. coaching@lovefootball.com.au | 
