BALL GAMES - SOCCER

CONTENT

1. History and Development of Soccer
2. Basic Skills and Techniques in Soccer
3. Rules and Regulations of Soccer
4. Officials and Regulations of Soccer
5. Facilities and Equipment Used in Soccer
6. Common Injuries in Soccer
7. Values of Soccer

History and Development of Soccer

The true origin of soccer is difficult to determine but soccer otherwise known as football could be linked to the Greeks and Romans. The game was later brought to England by the Romans Soldiers. In 1863, the London Football Association established the first set of rules of the game. The English called it “Association Football”, while the Americans called it “soccer”.

The Nigeria Football Association (N.F.A) was established in 1945. The body responsible for the rules of the game, is F.I.F.A, that is, the Federation of International football Association. It was founded in 1904 in Zurich, Switzerland.

Soccer is an international game played by 2 teams of 11 players aside. Substitutes of 7-11 players are allowed depending on the governing body but in an international competition or championship maximum of three players are allowed as substitutes. A player can play the ball with any part of the body except the hand and arms. However, this does not apply to the goal keeper. It is started with a “kick off” in the centre circle of a rectangular field having goal areas, penalty areas, corner areas, and the goal posts.

Basic Skills and Techniques in Soccer

Basic skills and techniques involved in soccer are;