5 important things to know about soccer

By Denise O.

My name is Denise, I'm a freshman soccer player for Airport High School, I've been playing soccer for about 3 years now and I wanted to share this information because it helped me alot and I want to help others if they need it as well. 

1:Confidence.

The most important thing you should have while playing soccer is confidence.  You shouldn't let other things distract you or make yourself think you aren't good at the sport you enjoy playing. The more confident you are the better!

2: Focus.

Stay focused, no matter what. Never let your thoughts and overthinking get a hold of you, by staying focused and only having your mind on one important thing at a time.

Aylin T. had once quoted to me that “at times it isn't so it to stay focused”

3: Awareness.

Keeping your eyes aware of your opponents team plays and runs, Samuel R. had said ¨being aware helped me figure out our opponents runs and tricks”. Always stay aware of your surroundings because you never know what defender is coming to attack.

4:Skill.

Having skill is somewhat important, it helps you beat someone when it comes down to a 1v1 and can really improve your possession on the ball anytime you get it.

5.Potential.

Always have potential while playing, don't ever just give up because it's not going to help you in anything but just make things worse, having full potential while playing really does affect how you play, you play good when you have it and play bad when you don't. 

Student and soccer player Andy M. had once said to me, "Don't ever overthink, nor let anybody think you're a bad player, as long as you think you're good then keep that in your mind. Always have confidence in yourself."

April B., a former soccer player from last year's AHS JV team, always says to be "always practicing." That's what she does because she cares about the game and getting better.¨

For more information if you're interested in getting better at soccer, OpenGoal has many more ways on how you can improve!