I never played soccer before nor did I watch it. One day I was asked to join a team. This was an indoor soccer league. I am older now (40)and my children are leaving home one by one so I decided to try it. It is a simple game, but not simple at the same time. I didn't want to look stupid so I read the rules of the game on the league's website. I found that very helpful.

I went to my first game and was extremely nervous. I found all the team mates to be very helpful. They were more than willing to teach me the game. It is a team effort game. I learned quickly. I also learned which position I preferred. I like defense the best (maybe because it was less running back and forth LOL).

The rules of indoor soccer are different that outdoor soccer. You can not slide to block or kick the ball. You only have five (5) players, not including the goalie, on the field. You can look on most indoor soccer websites to find out the different rules.

Our team continued to play several sessions. The league had bumped our team up to the competitive league from recreational because we won and had the best scoring. I will tell you that competitive league is different from recreational! The competitive teams are much more fierce and aim only to win. They can be mean and some will even resort to injuring other players on the other teams.

I personally like the recreational league much better. Of course, we want to win too, but we want to have fun doing it. In recreational league, it doesn't matter your level of experience; anyone can play and learn. It is much more enjoyable.

Playing soccer was and is beneficial in a variety of ways. It is healthy exercise both muscle and cardio. The one thing I most benefit from is that when I am playing soccer, I am only thinking of soccer; No thinking of work, kids, housework, bills, etc. It is such a great stress reliever! These are the reasons I continue to play. What is stopping you from playing?

Learn more about this author, Christine St. George.
Click here to send author comments or questions.

---

Add your voice

Know something about Reasons to play and support soccer?
We want to hear your view. Write now!