Soccer Draft
The world's most popular team sport: two teams try to score by getting a ball into the opposing goal using their feet and bodies (not hands).
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How to start
What you need
- Size 5 ball for teens and adults (smaller for kids)
- Cleats for grass or turf shoes for artificial surfaces
- Shin guards
- Socks, shorts and a jersey; water
Typical cost
Ball $15 to $40, cleats $30 to $100, shin guards $10 to $30; local rec leagues commonly $60 to $150 per season; pickup is often free (approximate, varies by city).
Where to play
Community fields, school fields, pickup groups, indoor futsal courts and local rec leagues.
Rules
- Two teams of 11 (fewer in small-sided games) try to score in the other team's goal.
- Only the goalkeeper may handle the ball within their penalty area.
- Play restarts with a throw-in when the ball crosses the sideline, using both hands from behind the head.
- A goal kick or corner kick restarts play when the ball crosses the end line.
- Offside means being closer to the opponent's goal than the ball and the second-last defender when a teammate passes to you.
- Fouls like tripping or pushing give the other team a free kick or penalty kick.
- A yellow card is a caution; a red card sends a player off.
- A match is usually two halves; most games end with the most goals winning.
Drills
Wall passes 8 min
Pass against a wall with the inside of your foot and control the rebound. Alternate feet for 50 passes.
Cone dribbling 10 min
Set 6 cones in a line and dribble through with small touches, switching feet. Repeat 5 times.
First touch juggling 8 min
Keep the ball in the air with your feet and thighs, counting touches. Aim to beat your record.
Shooting practice 10 min
Place the ball just outside the box and shoot at corners. Use instep and laces. Take 20 shots.
Two-touch passing 10 min
Pass back and forth with a partner using only two touches: receive, then pass.
Etiquette
- Return the ball for throw-ins and accept referee decisions.
- Pass the ball and include teammates rather than hogging it.
- Shake hands after the match.
Safety
- Wear shin guards and cleats appropriate to the surface.
- Warm up hamstrings, groins and ankles.
- Avoid heading drills for very young children; follow local youth guidelines.
Levels
- 1Learning to kick, dribble and pass.
- 2Can dribble and pass with both feet; knows rules.
- 3Plays confidently in pickup or rec leagues and understands positioning.
- 4Strong technique and tactical awareness; plays competitive leagues.
- 5Plays for a high school, college, club or semi-pro team.
Questions
Do I need to be fast?
Speed helps, but technique, positioning and stamina matter just as much.
What is futsal?
A small-sided indoor version with a heavier ball that develops quick passing and control.
How can I play without a team?
Join pickup games or a rec league; many welcome individuals and place them on teams.
Draft guide: written from general knowledge and not yet checked by someone who plays soccer. Costs are approximate and vary by city. Check with a coach or doctor before starting anything new.