Since we're talking' soccer...
Go Keiki Gold!
Didn't have AYSO when I was growing up so when our h.s. started up a soccer program when I was a senior, thought "how hard can it be to run after a round ball and kick it?" Went out for the team and kinda, sorta found out that the game was a LOT more difficult than I imagined. I mean, just putting the ball into play was head spinning for me:
Other than the goalie, can't touch the ball in the field of play except on throw-ins.
Feet can't lift off the ground on a throw-in.
Must use two hands on a throw-in.
Ball must come from behind your head on a throw-in.
No spin can be imparted on a throw-in.
I gave up after the 2nd week.
Then, years later, while I was in college, I was asked to play in an adult "senior" league. The league was intended to be only for 40 year olds or over but there weren't enough teams so they begged my friend to form a team and they would waive the age minimum. So a bunch of us 20-ish year olds thought, "sure, we can run around with the old farts." The vast majority of us had never played organized soccer before so we learned how to play and the rules, on the fly.
The problem with college kids and Sunday morning sports is that most of us normal boys spent the weekends doing youthful activities. As our captain used to say, "I pray we can field at least 7 guys at kickoff and 11 by halftime."
Played for about 9 years. Also got into running and while training for my 2nd marathon, developed plantar fasciitis in both heels. No bueno. Cortisone shots. Stopped running and soccer. But, I had fun on the pitch. Made a bunch of friends (...even with guys on the opposing teams...) and most importantly, learned how to play the game...at least strategy-wise. We never practiced after the first few games so I never learned to properly kick the ball. I eventually learned how when I coached my 8-year son and watched videos and read books. Once I did that, sheesh, I could actually kick the ball far!
I'll still watch soccer on TV and marvel at the ball skills but after awhile, get bored and change channels.
Edited by user
a year ago |
Reason: Not specified