The shin guards are out, the cleats already smell questionable, and parents everywhere are trying to remember where they put the soccer socks.
Youth soccer season is here, and in Florida that means one thing: it is still hot.
Recreation league soccer is such a great way for kids to learn teamwork, listen to a coach, build confidence, stay active, and have fun.
And for the younger players, sometimes it also means learning not to pick the grass while the ball rolls right past them.
Florida Soccer Means Heat
September may be getting us closer to fall, but Florida did not get the memo.
Make sure kids have plenty of water, lightweight clothing when possible, and breaks when they need them. If a child becomes unusually tired, dizzy, nauseated, confused, or develops a headache, get them out of the heat and let them cool down.
The Soccer Parent Survival Bag
A few things worth bringing:
Extra water
Sunscreen
Bug spray
Cooling towel
Extra socks
Easy snacks
Folding chair
Umbrella or shade when allowed
And maybe a little patience, because somebody will eventually lose a cleat five minutes before it is time to leave.
Remember Why They Are Playing
Rec league is a place to learn.
There will be missed goals, wrong directions, brand-new players, and kids who are mostly there because their best friend signed up.
Cheer for all of them.
Encourage effort.
Thank the coaches and volunteers.
And when the game is over, try asking, “Did you have fun?” before asking, “Did you win?”
Years from now, they may not remember the score, but they will remember who was on the sideline cheering for them.
Youth soccer season is coming in hot!
