Let’s face it: in America, soccer is king. It’s the social glue that holds countless communities, groups of friends, and even entire families together, with millions of people gathering in the stands and around television screens annually to share in the excitement of a great game. In some towns, it would not be a surprise if a child made his first pass before learning to walk. On the pitch, at home or in the bar, football reigns supreme.

Every year, thousands of children prepare to experience this national pastime first-hand. However, as a full contact sport, you cannot avoid the fact that soccer can be dangerous at any level, both amateur and professional. With this in mind, here are some ways you can ensure that your child’s experience on a school or club soccer team is as positive and character-building as it should be.

Suitable equipment

The first step you should take to keep your child safe, regardless of the position in which they play, is to invest in the right protective gear. The following list covers all the equipment that any soccer player should equip himself with:

Helmet with Mask and Mouthguard: Proper fit in this department is crucial, as oversized helmets and mouthguards can be easily removed during the most difficult times.

Protective padding for thighs, shoulders and around the hips

Cleats – Soccer is traditionally an all-weather sport, so having footwear that grips well on the grass in all conditions is important to prevent sprained ankles and other foot-related injuries.

Leg and ankle orthoses: related to the previous point, they minimize the severity of the slips, trips and falls that occur in practically all the plays.

Preparation

As with any sport, proper stretching and warm-up exercises are vital to preventing stress and maximizing athleticism. A full routine can last between 15 and 30 minutes and will raise your body temperature, heart and respiratory rates, and increase your metabolism. Stretches must be complete, covering not only the extremities and joints, but also the torso. Remember, always include at least one short run before stretching to avoid pulling on a muscle, and stretch only to the point of discomfort, not beyond.

Last but not least, always make sure your child understands the rules of the game before going out onto the field. This is one of the simplest methods of avoiding injury, and yet it is too often overlooked. Good communication between coaches, players and referees is one of the best guarantees for a safe game.