How to Excel on a Soccer Team the First Time Out

Soccer is one of the world's greatest team sports. It encourages young athletes to develop qualities such as strength, stamina, speed and coordination, but it also teaches them to value teamwork and camaraderie. If you're new to soccer and are heading out for your first match with a team, here are some things to keep in mind that'll help you play up to your potential.

Instructions

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

1. Learn the role your position plays in the team's game strategy. If you're a defender, keep your eye on the ball and your opponent's developing attacks. If you're a midfielder or striker, spread the defense out and create open space to advance the ball toward your opponent's goal.
2. Communicate with your teammates. This is an often overlooked component of soccer, but it makes a vital difference in your success as a player. Whenever you need or want help on the field, call out to your fellow players and work together to control the ball as a team.
3. Play aggressively. Although hogging the ball won't help your team unless you're fantastically skilled, playing with heart and determination can make the difference between winning and losing. Go into all 50-50 challenges hard and do your best to win the ball.
4. Listen to your coach. Some coaches might seem overbearing or even a little nuts, but most of them have a winning game plan in mind when they create their lineup and send their players out onto the field.
5. Be courteous to the opposing players even if they're not. Maintaining a sporting and friendly atmosphere is important because it keeps you level-headed on the field and lets you play to your fullest potential.
6. Rush to your teammates' defense if they're under pressure from an opposing player. Even the best dribblers in the world like Ronaldinho and Messi rely on their teammates to get them out of trouble.

Tips & Warnings

• Improve your skills before your first game through juggling and dribbling drills. Good ball control will make you feel more comfortable on the pitch.