Soccer Insider
Choosing The Right Soccer Ball
One of the fabulous advantages of playing soccer is that you require very little equipment to play the game. But it’s very difficult to play soccer without using ball! So if your child is keen to play soccer, you will need to choose a soccer ball. Faced with a whole lot of choices, it can be hard to decide which ball is the right one for your child. So let’s take a look at how to choose the right soccer ball.
The first thing is to visit a store that has a good range. If there are only one or two choices, how will you possibly know you’ve chosen the right one? If possible, the store should have a range of brands available, and at least a few choices of ball for every brand. It also helps if the store has knowledgeable salespeople, so it can be a good idea to ask other soccer players for recommendations.
One of the simplest things to look at is whether the ball has been stitched or laminated. A laminated ball will have been glued together and will generally be harder. Generally the higher quality balls are stitched, with some of the most expensive balls being hand stitched.
Aside from the “hardness” of the ball, the feel of a soccer ball is affected by the type of bladder. This is inside the ball and contains the air. If the ball has a butyl bladder, it will usually be cheaper and harder. More expensive balls generally have latex bladders.
Some players will prefer the harder type of soccer ball, particularly if they’re planning to use the ball for striking practice. However if you’re purchasing a soccer ball for a younger player, it’s probably best to buy a softer ball, particularly if it will be used to practice heading. A PVC plastic ball may be a reasonable choice, if it’s specifically designed for youth soccer. You can test the hardness of a soccer ball by pressing your thumb into it. Also be aware that the ball may feel harder if used in cold weather.
Another factor to consider is the size of the ball. Generally, 8 and unders use size 3, 8 to 12 year olds use a size 4, and from 13 years of age on a size 5 ball is used. Size 5 is the standard international size soccer ball. Although it may seem cheaper to just buy a size 5 ball and not a smaller size, it can be hard for a younger child to swap from one ball size to another, for example if they play in a team which uses size 3 balls.
The manufacturer’s reputation can also help you choose which soccer ball to purchase. Ask the team coach or an experienced player which brand they recommend. Check to see if the ball has the words “FIFA Approved” or “FIFA Inspected” if you’re buying an expensive ball.
Finally, have your child play with the ball if you possibly can, even if it’s just a few soft taps around the floor of the sports store. They’ll soon tell you if they like it or not.
A few final words of advice. Remember that soccer balls occasionally go astray, so remember to put your child’s name on the ball if they’re taking it to school or soccer practice. And buy a good hand pump – it’s important to keep soccer balls properly inflated or else they will get damaged.
To learn more about choosing a soccer ball, check out my site http://www.infoaboutsoccer.com
Soccer Insider, Steve Goff Talks SuperDraft 2011, and DC United on TSRC
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Women’s Soccer Scrapbook: The Ultimate Insider’s Guide $2.45 In 1999, the U.S. women’s soccer team won a thrilling shoot-out in the final match to capture the World Cup-and the hearts of Americans. Mia Hamm, Brandi Chastain, Carla Overbeck, Briana Scurry, and other team members suddenly became fan favorites. With the Women’s Soccer Scrapbook, kids can relive the dramatic U.S. world championship victory over China, trace the evolution of the game, read about… |
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The Insider’s Marketing, Success Principles and Inner Game for Professional Soccer Equipment Biz 3 CD Package … |
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Boundless: How to Build a Healthy, Wealthy, Happy and Prosperous Life That Matters! $30.95 America’s #1 Personal Trainer And Author Has Cracked The Code To Effective Personal Achievement, Successful Transformation And Lasting Change…Learn How To Build A Truly Extraordinary Life, To Possess Superior Health, Infinite Wealth, Lasting Happiness And Limitless Prosperity… To Live A Boundless Life That Matters! Dear Friend, What if I told you I could help you to be…to become the person that you know you really are, the person that was put here on this planet to make a difference?You read that right… I said make a difference! That is your true purpose…This book contains all of the necessary tools and implements, the lessons, the mindsets, the strategies, the paradigm protocols and everything else you need to learn, apply and become BOUNDLESS!This is one of the most successful systems ever developed, and it is used by the top 1% professional athletes, business leaders, sales professionals, fitness experts and high-profile media personalities.Over the last 20 years I have had the privilege of personally training over 4,500 unique individuals that range from billionaires, millionaires, CEO’s and celebrities of all types to housewives, soccer moms, their kids and numerous others.I have also consulted over 100,000 online and tele-clients as well!And now I am sharing all that I ever learned, been taught, witnessed and have applied to levels of extraordinary success…all of my closely guarded “tricks of the trade” and “insider secrets” to you…today!And once you’ve learned these tools and strategies for success, you’ll join the ranks of the world’s elite & affluent and be equipped to achievenearly any goal.Are You Living The Life Of Your Dreams Or Is Life A Living Nightmare?Do You Want More, To Do More, Have More And Be More?Are You Tired Of Living In Fear?Do You Want To Live In Faith? Do You Want To Look Better, Feel Better… Be Better?Dig |
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Carlo Ancelotti: The Beautiful Games of an Ordinary Genius $25 The entertaining, revealing, and controversial bestselling autobiography of one of the most respected figures in the world of soccer. Carlo Ancelotti is one of only six people to have won the Champions League—European soccer’s most coveted trophy—as both player and coach. After a successful career playing for several of the most important teams in Italy—and for the Italian national team—Ancelotti went on to become one of the most acclaimed and outspoken coaches in European football, managing Italian giants Parma, Juventus, and Milan before moving to Chelsea, one of the Premier League’s most successful clubs, in 2009. The book moves from anecdotes of his life growing up in Reggio Emilia to stories of his time playing among the best footballers in the world. With a characteristic mixture of sharp insight and humor, Ancelotti explores the differences between the Italian and the English games, shares his thoughts on soccer’s future with the MLS in America, and reflects on the 2010 World Cup in South Africa. With a preface by the legendary former captain of the Italian national team, Paolo Maldini, this book is at once a tactician’s bible from one of the world’s most celebrated footballing minds, the fascinating story of an ordinary man reaching great heights, and in part a revealing tell-all from an outspoken insider in the cut-throat world of European soccer. The perfect book for anyone with a passion for the beautiful game. |
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Carlo Ancelotti: The Beautiful Games of an Ordinary Genius $25 The entertaining, revealing, and controversial bestselling autobiography of one of the most respected figures in the world of soccer. Carlo Ancelotti is one of only six people to have won the Champions League—European soccer’s most coveted trophy—as both player and coach. After a successful career playing for several of the most important teams in Italy—and for the Italian national team—Ancelotti went on to become one of the most acclaimed and outspoken coaches in European football, managing Italian giants Parma, Juventus, and Milan before moving to Chelsea, one of the Premier League’s most successful clubs, in 2009. The book moves from anecdotes of his life growing up in Reggio Emilia to stories of his time playing among the best footballers in the world. With a characteristic mixture of sharp insight and humor, Ancelotti explores the differences between the Italian and the English games, shares his thoughts on soccer’s future with the MLS in America, and reflects on the 2010 World Cup in South Africa. With a preface by the legendary former captain of the Italian national team, Paolo Maldini, this book is at once a tactician’s bible from one of the world’s most celebrated footballing minds, the fascinating story of an ordinary man reaching great heights, and in part a revealing tell-all from an outspoken insider in the cut-throat world of European soccer. The perfect book for anyone with a passion for the beautiful game. |
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Digital Sports Photography $16.97 Get an insider’s look at the techniques, equipment, and know-how needed to take eye-catching and inspiring sports action photographs with “Digital Sports Photography, Second Edition.” Written by an experienced professional sports photographer and featuring firsthand insight and ideas from other industry pros, this book provides the basics of sports photography whether you are just getting started or want to enhance your skills. You’ll learn about color management, camera setup, equipment options, shutter speeds, composition, and more to help you attain professional-quality results with a digital camera. You’ll also discover what a sports photo editor looks for when selecting images, knowledge you can use to help you take the best possible shots, whether you aspire to be a professional or just want to take great sports photos for fun. The book concentrates on shooting six major sports—baseball, football, basketball, hockey, soccer, and tennis—while providing methods and strategies that can be used to photograph any sport, at the amateur, collegiate, or pro level. Filled with fantastic images to illustrate the skills taught, a full-color gallery of images taken by the author, and even a glossary of helpful photography terms, “Digital Sports Photography, Second Edition” provides invaluable information and guidance on the excitingand challenging world of sports photography. |
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Digital Sports Photography $34.99 Get an insider’s look at the techniques, equipment, and know-how needed to take eye-catching and inspiring sports action photographs with “Digital Sports Photography, Second Edition.” Written by an experienced professional sports photographer and featuring firsthand insight and ideas from other industry pros, this book provides the basics of sports photography whether you are just getting started or want to enhance your skills. You’ll learn about color management, camera setup, equipment options, shutter speeds, composition, and more to help you attain professional-quality results with a digital camera. You’ll also discover what a sports photo editor looks for when selecting images, knowledge you can use to help you take the best possible shots, whether you aspire to be a professional or just want to take great sports photos for fun. The book concentrates on shooting six major sports–baseball, football, basketball, hockey, soccer, and tennis–while providing methods and strategies that can be used to photograph any sport, at the amateur, collegiate, or pro level. Filled with fantastic images to illustrate the skills taught, a full-color gallery of images taken by the author, and even a glossary of helpful photography terms, “Digital Sports Photography, Second Edition” provides invaluable information and guidance on the excitingand challenging world of sports photography. |
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Digital Sports Photography $34.99 Get an insider’s look at the techniques, equipment, and know-how needed to take eye-catching and inspiring sports action photographs with “Digital Sports Photography, Second Edition.” Written by an experienced professional sports photographer and featuring firsthand insight and ideas from other industry pros, this book provides the basics of sports photography whether you are just getting started or want to enhance your skills. You’ll learn about color management, camera setup, equipment options, shutter speeds, composition, and more to help you attain professional-quality results with a digital camera. You’ll also discover what a sports photo editor looks for when selecting images, knowledge you can use to help you take the best possible shots, whether you aspire to be a professional or just want to take great sports photos for fun. The book concentrates on shooting six major sports–baseball, football, basketball, hockey, soccer, and tennis–while providing methods and strategies that can be used to photograph any sport, at the amateur, collegiate, or pro level. Filled with fantastic images to illustrate the skills taught, a full-color gallery of images taken by the author, and even a glossary of helpful photography terms, “Digital Sports Photography, Second Edition” provides invaluable information and guidance on the excitingand challenging world of sports photography. |
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Kingfisher Soccer Encyclopedia $19.95 Soccer is the definitive guide to the world’s most popular sport. From the sublime skills of Pele to the lifestyle of a professional soccer player, this gloriously illustrated book explores every aspect of the game. State-of-the-art digital illustrations and stunning photographs bring to life all the key rules, tactics, set plays, and skills. As well as offering practical advice, this informative book also provides an insider’s view of the history of the game, profiles of the great clubs, and facts about women’s soccer teams and players. The great players, from Pele and Eusebio to Zidane, Maradona, and Mia Hamm, make an appearance, and a section on the great games relives the excitement of the most memorable encounters. A reference section includes a glossary, key statistics, and a guide to the best soccer websites. Comprehensive and visually thrilling, Soccer captures all the drama and the passion of a game that unites billions of people across the globe. Special Features: The definitive guide to all areas of the game, including rules, skills, tactics, great games, and famous players. Unique, state-of-the-art digital diagrams and illustrations. Stunning photographs throughout. A world soccer book for the 2010 World Cup and beyond. Cross-references, glossary, and web resources. |
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Las Vegas Little Red Book: A Girl’s Guide to the Perfect Vegas Getaway $0.99 Saucy insider Molly Sullivan shows you that it’s not your boyfriend’s, husband’s, father’s or brother’s Vegas anymore! Molly’s Las Vegas Little Red Book is the perfect entree to that unforgettable no tell weekend for single gals on the prowl, soccer moms on holiday, and all those fabulous fun-seeking women in between! |
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The Kingfisher Soccer Encyclopedia $0.63 Soccer is the definitive guide to the world’s most popular sport. From the sublime skills of Pele to the lifestyle of a professional soccer player, this gloriously illustrated book explores every aspect of the game. State-of-the-art digital illustrations and stunning photographs bring to life all the key rules, tactics, set plays, and skills. As well as offering practical advice, this informative book also provides an insider’s view of the history of the game, profiles of the great clubs, and facts about women’s soccer teams and players. The great players, from Pele and Eusebio to Zidane, Maradona, and Mia Hamm, make an appearance, and a section on the great games relives the excitement of the most memorable encounters. A reference section includes a glossary, key statistics, and a guide to the best soccer websites. Comprehensive and visually thrilling, Soccer captures all the drama and the passion of a game that unites billions of people across the globe. Special Features: The definitive guide to all areas of the game, including rules, skills, tactics, great games, and famous players. Unique, state-of-the-art digital diagrams and illustrations. Stunning photographs throughout. A world soccer book for the 2010 World Cup and beyond. Cross-references, glossary, and web resources. |
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Tilting the Playing Field: Schools, Sports, Sex and Title IX $16.95 When Congress passed Title IX of the Civil Rights Act in 1972, they seemed to be doing something laudable and also long overdue-prohibiting discrimination on the basis of sex in America’s schools. But thirty years later, a law designed to guarantee equal opportunity has become the most explicit, government-enforced quota regime in America, putting boys and men on the losing side of a battle for athletic and educational opportunity. A former athlete herself, Jessica Gavora interviewed dozens of leading college athletes, educators and legal experts for this provocative, yet carefully researched book. She argues that the 1999 World Cup victory of the U.S. Women’s Soccer team, for instance, widely seen as a Title IX triumph, was actually the result of a far more profound social revolution that has changed America’s mind about sexual roles and female destiny. If anything, Title IX has had a destructive overall effect on all college athletes by killing opportunities to compete. Gavora shows how Title IX sports quotas have caused chaos at schools like Brown University and led directly to the cancellation of some of the most prestigious men’s programs in the country-among them Providence College’s baseball team, Princeton’s wrestling team and the men’s swimming and diving program that produced several Olympic champions. But if Title IX has tilted the college playing field, Gavora suggests that its greatest impact on American social life may still lie ahead as the federal bureaucrats, activist judges, and radical feminists who have shaped the statute’s interpretation now seek to expand its reach into sexual harassment and other areas of education where boys and girls have to conform to their notion of “gender equity.” “Tilting the Playing Field” is a trenchant insider’s look at how one law-and its unintended consequences–has affected our view of sports, sex, and schools. |
