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by Steve Martin

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I'm presuming that this article title comes from an American contributor. I am replying as an English contributor, England being a country where soccer is not a trend but an ingrained part of our psyche. Having grown up playing soccer, I would give the following reasons for it being an ideal sport for kids:

1. The real joy of soccer is that it requires no organisation whatsoever. All you need is a ball. With that, coats can be thrown down as goalposts and the game is on.

2. It can be played by any number of children. Four, six, two, it doesn't matter. Even on one's own, one can kick a ball against the wall.

3. It doesn't require skill to join in. Yes, it requires skill and athleticism to do well at the sport, but how many kids go on to be professional sportspeople. Anyone can run a bit and kick a ball - that's all it needs. To participate, one does not need highly developed skills, high levels of fitness or physical courage.

4. The rules are very, very easy. Even if you nothing about the game whatsoever, I could explain the basics in about two minutes.

5. It's fun. There's no waiting around for a turn, there's no need for discussions of tactics - from start to finish everyone is involved.

Learn more about this author, Steve Martin.

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