Parents often ask what a child needs at practice. The following list may seem like it is excessive but as the scouts say: Be Prepared!
COME READY TO PLAY!!!
Players should bring the following with them to every training session or game:
1. Inflated ball. Every child should have a ball.
2. Their own cool water (cool water is absorbed faster).
3. Shin guards.
4. Cleats, not tennis shoes.
5. Extra shoe laces. (be prepared!)
6. Emergency phone #'s.
7. Keepers, bring your gloves, shirt and long pants in case the field is poor.
Children should be encouraged to have their practice equipment ready before they leave the house. This is a good chance for the parents to teach some responsibility and is not asking too much, even for a five year old. Naturally the parents of younger children should prepare the water but before walking out the door you can ask the child if they have everything they need. The child's responsibility is with only four or five of these items, ball, water, cleats, shin guards, and gloves for the goalkeeper. You can go through the same series of questions before you get in the car to come home, helping the child remember to have all of their items with them before they come off the field.
What size ball?
Under 6 and 8 Size 3
Under 10 and 12 Size 4
Under 14 and up Size 5
Remember, soccer cleats DO NOT have a cleat under the toe!