Play Like You Mean It: Passion, Laughs, and Leadership in the World's Most Beautiful Game

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Rex Ryan is known for his exuberance . . . and Play Like You Mean It explores every aspect of Ryan’s amazing passion for the game of football, plus the lessons he has learned in leadership and motivation during his years in and around the game. In his own words, Ryan takes readers behind the scenes of the NFL as he shares colorful football stories from his experiences with the Jets and the Ravens as well as his years recruiting players, coaching college footA-ball, and growing up as a child of legendary NFL coach Buddy Ryan. Rex’s unique brand of enthusiasm and motivaA-tion comes through on every page.

Most of all, fans will get insider access to Ryan’s headline-grabbing, brutally honest, and undeniably entertaining views on the NFL . . . and the very human side of the larger-than-life athletes who devote their lives to the game of footA-ball. From Ryan’s acceptance of the Jets head coaching job to his success in turning around a team that has long been number two in New York, from his drafting and believing in Mark Sanchez to kicking off the 2010 season with massive expectations (and a target on his back)a€?this book goes deep, and entertains on every level.

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Weight Training For Soccer - Improve Strength and Endurance

Win the challenges for the ball with explosive power

Weight training for soccer is not about building huge muscles. It is about:

Upper Body Strength

Aids in complete explosive power.
Helps you shield the ball from the opposition.
Helps you gain position on your opposition.
Helps you throw well on throw-ins.
Helps to prevent injury.

Lower Body Strength

For powerful shots and firm passes.
Jump above others to win head balls.
Firm tackling to steal the ball.
Improved agility.
Improved speed and acceleration.
Helps to prevent injury.

Performance

To be a quality soccer player you need to be a complete athlete. No other sport requires the physical strength and lung capacity that soccer does. You have to be able to run short distances of 10 to 20 yards quickly, but you also need the endurance to last 90 minutes of a soccer match. You also need to be able to hold off the opposition and win challenges for the ball. These skills require more than just lifting heavy weights. It requires balancing your weight training for soccer to include all parts of your body.

How to Train

You cannot just go to the gym and do the normal 3 sets of 10 repetitions of all the standard exercises and get soccer fit. If you think so, you are kidding yourself. Bodybuilders do that to build size and strength. Your goal is different. Unless you want to be a huge bodybuilder, with little agility, and no flexibility. Hey, you could be a huge pylon!

Your training should include:

Weights to increase strength and power.
Circuit training. This provides cardiovascular and strength improvement. Try using movements that you would use in a soccer game.
Plyometrics - a type of exercise using explosive movements to develop muscular power. For example bounding, hopping, and jumping, for the purposes of improving performance in a specific sport.

Is That Enough?

Well of course not. With any smart soccer strength training or soccer speed training program, you need a healthy diet. You can build your strength and agility, but without the energy to go along with it just won't matter.

So work smart, eat well, and train properly. Your soccer training will develop a lean-muscled, physically fit, explosively powered soccer body.

Wayne MacLean has over 30 years of experience in the game of soccer. As a soccer coach, soccer player, soccer referee, and all-around soccer fan, Wayne is now adding a new dimension to his love of soccer. He now writes many articles and creates soccer videos to help those that are involved in soccer, are new to soccer, or just want to know more about soccer. Check out my Weight Training for Soccer page.

Soccer Shoes - No Heels, But a Great Kick!

"For Turf and Indoor Soccer"

Soccer shoes are certainly not high heels but they definitely can be stylish. But also functional.

When we talk about soccer cleats or soccer boots we talk of molded soles or removable cleat soccer footwear for use on grass fields.

So let's turn our attention to indoor or artificial turf footwear.

Why Special Shoes?

When you are talking about indoor soccer shoes, you talk about soccer gear that is made for a specific purpose. The sole provides a better grip on the indoor surface so you can speed by your competition with your moves. Some people think that they can get away with sneakers, but you will think again after you have been burned a few times on the indoor soccer field.

There are many companies that manufacture these products. They include Lotto indoor soccer shoes, Adidas, Puma, and Nike.

Soccer turf shoes are made to be used on artificial turf. Some people will try wearing soccer cleats, but the studs may grip too well and you could end up twisting something that you didn't want to. Soccer turf shoes have shorter molded rubber studs and will provide good grip but will also help prevent injury.

Traction!

Having good traction in soccer is extremely important. With the moves that we try we need to make sure that we get the grip that we need. That is why special soles are made for turf shoes and indoor shoes. They provide the best grip on their specific surfaces.

Material!

Like soccer cleats, the materials used are either real leather, or synthetic leather. Real leather will provide a better feel for the ball, but may cost a little more. They will also usually last longer than synthetic models. You will have to decide where to draw the line.

Looks Can Be Deceiving!

These shoes can resemble sneakers, but don't kid yourself. They will perform much better than sneakers, and give you the confidence of knowing that your soccer footwear is good for the job.

Wayne MacLean has over 30 years of experience in the game of soccer. As a soccer coach, soccer player, soccer referee, and all-around soccer fan, Wayne is now adding a new dimension to his love of soccer. He now writes many articles and creates soccer videos to help those that are involved in soccer, are new to soccer, or just want to know more about soccer. Check out my Soccer Shoes for more great soccer information for yourself or your team.

The Soccer Drill Sargeant

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A Guide to Soccer Shorts

There are many different kinds of shorts that a soccer player can wear during a soccer game or practice, but clearly the best kinds of shorts are soccer shorts - shorts that are made specifically for the game of soccer.

Soccer-specific shorts are a part of the game. Soccer shorts help a player make the best impression on both his or her teammates and on selectors during a tryout. Of course, soccer shorts do not just make a soccer player look "good." They are also durable and can withstand the rough and tumbles of a soccer game (and there can be plenty of tumbles, tumbles that would rip other shorts or leave them grass-stained). Soccer shorts are also made to be comfortable so that a player can focus on the ball at hand (or, rather, at foot) instead of on his soccer clothing.

Soccer Shorts are made from polyester, but there are two different types to decide between, knit and woven. Woven soccer shorts tend to be more durable and tear-resistant than woven soccer shorts. This quality may be very important to very rough players, or soccer players who spend a lot of time down on the field!

Fit is always important, just as it is in regular clothes. If your shorts don't fit, you aren't going to be very comfortable which may make it harder to concentrate on the game. Also, improperly fitting soccer shorts may not allow the same sort of freedom of movement that properly fitting shorts would.

To know if you have the right fit, measure the inseam (which is from the crotch to the bottom of the soccer shorts). If you are of average size, your inseam should generally measure 5 inches for adult sizes and just 3 to 4 inches for youth sizes. Consider a drawstring and an elastic waist to ensure a proper fit.

Before you go ahead and buy your shorts, you want to think of what potential problems you could have. You don't want to find them out when you're already out on the soccer field. Make sure that the waistband is neither too tight nor too loose. You also want to check out the seams and the waist band to see if they may potentially irritate your skin. Just rub your fingers along the seams to check them out.

And remember: just because baggy shorts may be "in," it does not mean that they are the best short for the game - improperly fitting shorts can hamper mobility. It's better to look good because of your soccer skills than because of your fashionable soccer shorts.

Once you've found the soccer shorts that you think are just right for you, you want to wear them to a practice or two before you test them out on the field, just to make sure that they are just as comfortable as you imagined. And if it turns out that you really like this style and brand, stick to it. Why try out different soccer shorts if you already have the perfect pair?

Anne Clarke writes numerous articles for websites on gardening, parenting, fashion, sports, and home decor. Her background includes teaching and gardening. For more of her articles on soccer please visit Soccer Gear.

Soccer Shoes and Cleats For Youth

Many of us know our young soccer players' feet grow quickly. This makes outfitting the family (kiddies, teens and grown-up kids) with new soccer shoes-a bit expensive. We are not just talking once a year, but it many cases every season (Fall to Indoor to Spring to Fall).

I strongly suggest parents refuse to buy into the brand name marketing trap-our kids must have the most expensive soccer cleats available. After all, you're paying the extra costs of the big name companies to private label and market their brands. Do you really think they are manufacturing their own shoes? Come on, it's a global economy and I'm telling you they are all having their soccer shoes made by sweatshops in India and China.

In addition, parents should understand they will never get the value out of an expensive soccer shoe in a single season. Don't worry Moms and Dads; there is another alternative for your younger players. Look for alternate brands other than the big name ones!!! There are plenty of attractive, affordable soccer shoes for young players-these soccer cleats are just not mass marketed!!! And for $19-$22, you can buy brand new soccer shoes for your rapidly growing soccer player-without breaking the bank.

For the teen recreational/select and occasional adult players, consider the newest styles of soccer shoes by Vizari. These soccer cleats are designed for players at the intermediate level in adult sizes only. We also offer high-end soccer shoes for adult players. Select level players choose the "Copa Select" or "Vanguish" soccer cleats. Soccer shoes are made with soft luxurious full grain leather-for serious soccer players in adult sizes only.

Soccer enthusiasts who choose to play indoors or on synthetic surfaces also have affordable options. If you're playing indoors, it's a good idea to purchase a pair of indoor soccer shoes. Often, you can use molded cleats on the turf at many indoor facilities, but to prevent injuries and for the health of your feet; it's wise to buy a pair of flat-soled soccer shoes to use when playing indoor.

Shop carefully for your next pair of soccer shoes and soccer cleats for synthetic turf--there are more affordable prices! You know you want--or need a pair--you're just a few clicks away from having the right soccer shoes for your turf.

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Buying Soccer Jerseys Online

Many active soccer players today have soccer schedules year round. When you play just as hard as any soccer enthusiast, your clothes and equipment are sure to wear and tear. Even the top brands in soccer jerseys (as any item of clothing, no matter how durable and dependable) will eventually need to be replaced.

When you need replacement soccer jerseys, whether for yourself or for the whole team, you need them to be dependable, sturdy, and you need the replacement or replacements right away.

Do not search through paper catalogues or go from store to store, buying soccer jerseys online is the easiest way to buy soccer jerseys. Perhaps you don't even need your soccer jersey for playing soccer, perhaps you are just an avid fan and you want to flaunt your soccer jersey or show support for your favorite team as much as possible. You can buy soccer jerseys online that are in good condition at reasonable prices, and often, online you will find better prices and better selection than anywhere else soccer merchandise and equipment are sold.

You can find jerseys for your favorite World Cup team, or have a soccer jersey designed in your favorite colors, or perhaps in the colors of your favorite high school, college, or university soccer team.

The best solution for your budget if you are with a school or other community soccer team, is to buy soccer jerseys online, when you purchase soccer jerseys online you can get the exact measurements of every player so that his or her individual jersey fits perfectly.

There is always a wide selection of merchandise to choose from when buy soccer jerseys online. Along with buying soccer jerseys online, you can also purchase soccer gear, equipment and many other kinds of soccer merchandise. You are sure to be satisfied with your purchase if you buy soccer jerseys online, and while you are there look around for any other soccer merchandise you may need.

The best thing about buy soccer jerseys online is that you can don it right from the convenience of your computer, without going anywhere at all. There is a better selection of all brands, styles and kinds of soccer jerseys available when you buy soccer jerseys online.

As a consumer, the very best way to get you soccer jerseys for this season or any season to come will beautiful touch through online shopping. Buy soccer jerseys online today, you will love the endless options and the incredible convenience of online shopping for all your soccer needs.

Anne Clarke writes numerous articles for websites on gardening, parenting, fashion, and home decor. Her background includes teaching and gardening, recreation and health care. For more of her articles on sports and soccer gear please visit Buying Soccer Jerseys.

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Famous Mexican Soccer Players

Mexican soccer was always known for producing quality players and it's actually quite surprising that their best national team record is reaching the quarter-finals of a World Cup (on two occasions, 1970 and 1986, both of these World Cups being organized by Mexico). However, the Mexican national side has always been a constant presence in final tournaments and it's regarded as a tough nut to crack, despite their lack of silverware.

Let's take a short look at some of the players that made Mexico the strong soccer power that it is today.

Famous Mexican Soccer Players - Antonio Carbajal

Nicknamed "El Cinco Copas", or "Five Cups", Antonio Carbajal was the first player to ever participate in 5 World Cups with his national team and has only been equaled in 1998, by German legend Lothar Matthaus. Carbajal played for Mexico in all the 5 World Cups that took place between 1950 and 1966.

Famous Mexican Soccer Players - Hugo Sanchez

Hugo Sanchez was one of the first Mexico soccer players to play in Europe at the highest level. He was an iconic player for Real Madrid between 1985 and 1992; 7 years in which he scored no less than 253 goals in 283 matches, a goal/match ratio that can hardly be rivaled.

He also played for the Mexico national team on 60 occasions, scoring 29 goals and being an important player in the 1986 World Cup held by Mexico, in which his team managed to equal the quarter-final performance obtained initially in 1970. Hugo Sanchez is currently the manager and coach of the Mexican national squad.

Famous Mexican Soccer Players - Jared Borgetti

Borgetti was of Italian and Mexican descent and as a striker, he combined the flair and power of Italian soccer with the passion and inventively of Mexican soccer. Although he is still an active soccer player at age 34, he spent most of his time playing in the Mexican league, with 7 years for Santos Laguna, a period of time in which he managed to score close to 200 goals in 300 matches.

But Borgetti's goalscoring run doesn't stop here, as he has also managed to come on top of the Mexican national side's all time score sheet, with 43 goals in 87 matches. Currently, Borgetti is playing for Cruz Azul and although he decided to retire from the Mexican national side for the upcoming World Cup, he stated that he would love to play for his country one last time, during the CONCACAF Gold Cup tournament.

Famous Mexican Soccer Players - Claudio Suarez

Unlike many other Mexican soccer players that get to celebrate New Years with a completely new club on their payroll, Claudio Suarez has only gone through 4 teams throughout his entire career: UNAM Pumas (1989-1996), Chivas de Guadalajara (1996-1999), UANL Tigres (1999-2005) and Chivas USA (2006). He made a strong impression for all of these clubs and many consider him one of the best Mexican defenders to have played for his country.

Although an extraordinary defender is currently contesting this title away from Claudio Suarez, namely Rafael Marquez of Barcelona, there's one title that will hardly be touched by anyone for a long time: Claudio Suarez currently holds the record for international caps with the Mexican national team, with an amazing 178 appearances.

Famous Mexican Soccer Players - Rafael Marquez

Rafael Marquez is probably the best-known Mexican soccer player of today, being one of the most important members of Spanish side FC Barcelona. Marquez' ability to play as a central or right defender as well as a defensive midfielder earned him the aura of a "handyman", being able to play wherever his coach would need him the most.

However, Marquez has recently steadied down as a central defender, playing on this position for the Mexican national side as well as for FC Barcelona in the last years. Age 28, Rafael Marquez is the captain of the Mexican national squad and is already being considered one of the best players in the country's history, next to legendary names such as Hugo Sanchez or Claudio Suarez.

Niv Orlian is the author and the owner of a Soccer Fans website that provides information on various topics related to soccer such as the history of soccer, soccer rules, famous soccer players (including Mexican soccer players), soccer fundamentals, soccer nutrition and soccer conditioning.

Major League Soccer Must Stay Away From a Strike Season!

Major League Soccer (MLS) players and owners recently agreed to a bargaining agreement that will allow the soccer season to begin on time. The player's union had voted in a landslide to go on strike. In fact, the vote was 383 to 2 according to sources. So, it would have happened if the owners didn't sign on to the agreement. Unlike other major sports league in the United States, soccer has never had a strike season, an attribute to both players and owners. It definitely does not need one either!

Major League Soccer cannot afford to have a lockout season. For one, soccer has flourished in the United States ever since its inception in 1996. Before that time, pro soccer was none existent in North America. So, there is no need for the sport to revert back to its growing years when it was struggling to get people in stadium seats. In fact, this is the second go around for soccer in the US.

The first time pro soccer was attempted in North America it failed, miserably. As a result, there were no other attempts until recently when the US national team began to do well on the world stage in World Cup qualifying matches and the World Cup. We should therefore give credit to the Bruce Arena's and other coaches before him who helped paved the way for the successful rebirth of soccer in the United States.

Major League Soccer is so popular in the US now that top pro players all over the world are coming to the States to play soccer. David Beckham is one such player, who is playing for the LA Galaxy, a US-based pro soccer team. He is practically a legend in British soccer, appearing in World Cups after World Cups for the country.

Soccer needs the United States. The more popular soccer is in the US the more revenue will be generated. Revenue can be obtained from soccer merchandising, advertising, marketing, TV network deals, and so on. The potential market for soccer in North America is therefore enormous. It is like a gold mine waiting to be discovered. Having soccer players from other countries play in the United States, help build the credibility and perception of quality soccer in the US.

Top teams from powerful soccer countries, such as Brazil and England play meaningful games against MLS teams. The most recent was Santos, a top Brazil pro soccer team that played the New York Red Bulls, New York's own pro soccer team, based in New Jersey. The game was the inaugural first game ever played in the new Red Bull Multimillion dollar stadium. To say the least, the game was more than anyone could have ever expected; it was very exciting and competitive with back and forth action that kept diehard soccer fans on the edge of their seats. To the delight of the American soccer fans, the Red Bulls won the game 3-1 over Santos.

The real winner was American Major League soccer. Occurrences such as the one mentioned above brings credibility to US soccer. The fact that the Red Bulls were competitive and even beat the Brazilians, showed that American soccer has truly come of age.

Therefore, whatever soccer's governing bodies, owners, players, coaches, and referees can do to preserve the growth of soccer in North America, they should all do it without hesitation. When there is a disagreement between players and owners in regards to revenue sharing, such disagreements should not be allowed to result in the stoppage of play because if this is allowed to happened, pro soccer in the United States will suffer severely.

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Want to Know How to Play Soccer?

Soccer is becoming increasingly popular with players from around the world, how to play soccer is an issue which is frequently discussed. Read on to learn all you need to know about how to play this game.

How to play soccer - Touch and Dribbling

The first, and most important skill that any budding soccer player needs to develop, is touch and basic dribbling skills, which will allow the players to move with the ball at their feet.

As soccer players develop, they will develop the ability to move faster with the ball and to dribble around players. This is developed in training with the use of cones, which players are encouraged to dribble around. Eventually, the players will be able to do this faster and these skills can then be transferred into a practice game situation.

How to play soccer - Passing

Accurate passing of the ball is a vital attribute of any soccer player. Drills, such as passing the ball squarely across a field will teach the player to do this accurately, before the player learns how to pass under pressure in a practice match situation.

How to play soccer - Tackling

For defenders in particular, tackling is one of the most crucial aspects of learning how the game of soccer. This can only really be developed in a game situation, with advanced players coached in the art of the sliding tackle, which will successfully allow the player to gain the ball back from an opponent.

How to play soccer - Shooting

For offensive-minded players, shooting is one of the most important skills. This is developed through a series of 'one-on-one' exercises with a goalkeeper, where the player will be encouraged to shoot and score under pressure.

How to play Soccer - Heading

Heading the ball, whilst less important than kicking it, is still an important attribute in any soccer player. Learning to effectively head the ball, using the correct part of the forehead, jumping, and beating opponents in the air, are all important skills which every outfield soccer player will need.

How to play soccer - Drills vs. Practice Matches

Most soccer players will probably want to test themselves in practice matches, as these are more fun and exciting than repetitive drills. However, learning how to become a soccer player must involve a combination of drills and practice matches.

Drills will be used to help the player to develop their basic skills, while practice matches will allow them to apply these in a game situation. It is only by doing this that a soccer player can develop fully.

How to play soccer - Fitness

As with any other sport, physical fitness plays a vital role in soccer. Although less important with players, fitness drills are equally as important as soccer drills and need to be used in order to maintain the physical strength needed to be a good soccer player.

How to play Soccer - Practice makes perfect

The very best soccer players hone their skills through constant practice. David Beckham, for example, spent hours each day on the training pitch before he gained the ability to bend those trademark free kicks. Although it has been said that many players are born with a natural talent for soccer, this is only true to a certain extent, and learning how to play soccer to a good standard involves a great deal of practice as well as hard work and persistence.

Now you know more about how to play soccer, and the importance of practice and good coach, what's stopping you from choosing a soccer coaching course?

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Soccer Exercises For a Well-Conditioned Soccer Player

Soccer players require both strength and endurance.

The proper soccer exercises will give you stamina to out-perform your opposition in a 90-minute soccer game. It is a game of constant movement. But you need more than just endurance.

To become a talented soccer player there are 4 types of soccer exercises that you should perform regularly:


Endurance training - get the wind you need to last 90 minutes. You know that you hate being taken off the field before.
Sprint training - to allow you to get to the ball faster than your opponents.
Strength training for soccer - so when you must battle an opponent for the ball, you can get position, and win the ball in the air, or on the ground.
Flexibility training - to stretch and strengthen your muscles to prevent injury and encourage muscle growth.

Endurance Training

As a soccer player we hate to hear "SUBSTITUTION". So to keep this from happening, try these endurance-training tips:


Always warm up before any endurance training run.
50% training will give you 50% during a game. Keep your long distance pace as high as possible. 2 miles in 12 minutes is a good target.
Work hard enough to get out of your comfort zone. And continue to expand your comfort zone as you improve.
Give your body time to recover. If you train hard every day there will be no juice left in your tank, and your body can only take so much.

Sprint (speed) Training

There are times when we just need to work on our speed. Sure we all want to get as much time on the ball as we can, but we cannot always have the ball. Work without the ball! Although it is a good idea to practice speed drills with the ball, doing both types of soccer exercises will be of greater benefit in the long term.

Here are a few exercises to help improve your speed:


Tuck your head down and get into position for exploding after the ball or your opponent. This will give you more control over your body than if your head is flying around up there somewhere. Just keep your eyes open.
Move your arms forward and backward parallel to your body. Not across the body. This increases your momentum, and gets everything moving in the same direction.
Lead with your toes. Starting off on your heels will not give you the balance or acceleration that you need.
Get your feet hitting the ground as many times and as fast as you can. The more you do this, the faster you will become.

Strength Training

Weight training for soccer is an excellent way to improve your strength to win challenges for the ball. In the air, and on the ground. It's about improving your overall strength, not becoming muscle-bound. I suggest you visit my weight training for soccer page for more information.

Flexibility Training

To improve the flexibility of your muscles it is important to understand the following:


Warm up for 5 - 10 minutes before stretching. Light jogging will work.
Hold each stretch for 15 - 20 seconds.
2 - 3 stretches per body part.
Do not bounce. Hold the stretch in place.
Start at the bottom and work your way up. Ankles, calves, hamstrings, quads, waist and hips, arms, chest, shoulders, neck and head.
Don't hold a painful stretch. You should feel a tightness in the muscle, but not pain.
Breathe! Do not hold your breath.

If you combine those facts with these great stretching exercises you will be a step ahead of your opponents.

Always allow yourself RECOVERY TIME. Recovering from any of the soccer exercises that you perform will allow to continue to improve. This will improve your overall conditioning for the long-term.

Wayne MacLean has over 30 years of experience in the game of soccer. As a soccer coach, soccer player, soccer referee, and all-around soccer fan, Wayne is now adding a new dimension to his love of soccer. He now writes many articles and creates soccer videos to help those that are involved in soccer, are new to soccer, or just want to know more about soccer. Check out my Soccer Exercises blog for more great soccer exercises and training information.

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Introduction to Mexico Soccer

In Mexico, soccer started developing in different regions of the country, with the first form of an organized championship being the Primera Fuerza, which was a local league consisting of various teams around the Federal District area. Players were semi-professional during this time, in a time where Europe had already promoted soccer professionalism.

With FIFA gaining strength as an international soccer governing organization, Mexico decided to organize a national soccer organization of their own in 1927, called the Federacion Mexicana de Futbol Asociacion (FMFA), who became a member of FIFA in 1929, just in time to participate to the first World Cup with the newly formed Mexican National Soccer Team.

Although participating in the first World Cup, the Mexico soccer team wasn't considered a soccer power at that time, which was confirmed by their lack of results in World Cup qualifications until 1950. Although the team was now a constant presence at the World Cup, they had difficult times competing against the more powerful European and South American nations and only won 1 match in 5 tournaments, against Czechoslovakia in 1962.

But in 1970, in an effort to promote soccer nationwide and seeing the economical importance of hosting a World Cup, Mexico managed to get hold of the rights to organize their first World Cup in history. The Mexico soccer team managed to reach the quarter-finals on this occasion, which is still their biggest international performance to date.

However, they would equal this performance 16 years and 4 World Cups later, again on home ground, as they would organize the 1986 World Cup, considered by many as the most entertaining in the history of soccer.

Nowadays, reaching the quarter finals of a World Cup is considered harder than it was in the 70s or 80s and although Mexican soccer progressed substantially, they're still suffering in major competitions when facing soccer giants from Europe or South America. However, the future is looking a lot brighter for Mexican soccer in general and for the Mexico national soccer team.

Club soccer in the country is now deemed as one of the richest in the Americas and some powerful clubs take part in the Copa Libertadores, a competition that was normally allowed only for South American clubs.

Several top quality players have moved from the Mexican league towards more powerful ones, the clearest examples being Rafael Marquez and Giovani Dos Santos, who were bought by Spanish side FC Barcelona and are both important members of the squad.

With these two players in the team, as well as several other emerging talents playing in the national league, the Mexico national soccer squad looks tougher than ever and ready to beat their quarter-final best finish in the upcoming World Cup in South Africa, 2010.

Niv Orlian is the author and the owner of a Soccer Fans website that provides information on various topics related to soccer.

Did you find this article interesting, useful and well written? You can learn a lot more about Mexican soccer here.

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Major League Soccer - Then & Now

With it's primary goal to be the world's most competitive and prestigious soccer league, along with one of America's premier sports and entertainment properties, Major League Soccer is a large part of worldwide soccer news and is making great strides toward accomplishing it's objective. With 6 teams making up the Eastern Conference and an equal number featured in the Western Conference, Major League Soccer is going strong with 12 clubs in only it's 11th season.

However, soccer news recalls that the league has made great achievements since it's inception in 1993. It's inaugural season began in 1995 and soccer news stirred around the new formation of teams, event locations and new players. In 1996, soccer news reported the League's first player draft and spring training. As attendance continued to grow, ESPN began televising soccer news and popularity soared across the nation. During this year, more soccer news reports and members of the media began covering MLS events. Supporters turned out in large fashion to catch a glimpse of their favorite teams and players.

In 1998, Major League Soccer underwent it's first expansion season, which meant big changes for the League. With the addition of two teams, which brought the club count from it's original 10 to the 12, soccer news introduced the latest League members as Chicago and Miami. Both teams proved powerful during their first year as they advanced to the playoffs. The following year, in 1999, Columbus Crew Stadium officially opened as the first major league stadium in the United States that was constructed specifically for soccer. It's presence paid off as thousands of fans packed the house to watch featured competitions.

In 2002, Major League Soccer removed 2 of their 12 clubs from the roster and once again returned to 10 teams. Tampa Bay and Miami were no longer League teams, but were replaced in 2004 with other expansion teams. Real Salt Lake and Club Deportivo Chivas USA joined the League and brought the club number back up to it's current 12 teams.

The clubs of Major League Soccer consist of both domestic and international competitors. With such a diverse roster, players are constantly being featured in soccer news magazines, soccer news televised programs and interviews.

Today, Major League Soccer continues to gain in popularity in the United States and around the world. Cheering fans, exciting competitions and major soccer newscoverage are among the many indications that Major League Soccer is here to stay.

Read all US soccer news, Canadian soccer news and all other soccer news on http://www.sportsnews24h.com/Soccer/.

Soccer Gear For Every Soccer Player

Choosing the right soccer gear can be a difficult chore. It doesn't matter whether you are choosing youth soccer gear, or gear for adults. It doesn't have to be painful. But with so many choices available, you need to ensure that the gear is of good quality, and will last through the soccer wars.

Buying cheap soccer gear will sometimes have you buying that same item more times. That will make it more expensive in the long run. Many times it is best to spend a little more up front and buy longer lasting gear.

With my over 30 years in soccer I have made some good choices, and some bad choices when choosing soccer gear.

I have to laugh when I look in my gear bag and see a pair of turf shoes that I have had for over 20 years. Obviously I haven't played a lot of games on turf! But they were definitely a good choice. And I can actually still wear them!

Start at the Bottom!

Soccer footwear!Whatever position you play, it doesn't matter. You could be playing as a goalie, midfielder, defender, or striker. Sneakers are not the way to go! Unless you want to continually slip around and miss the ball because you can't get your foot planted. You will never improve your soccer game that way.

Indoor or outdoors?Indoor soccer shoes are flat bottomed and made of a material that is more firm than a standard sneaker.

Outdoor soccer shoes come in models made for hard fields, firm fields, or soft / wet fields. Some have removable cleats so you do not have to buy a new pair of cleats if one or two studs wear down early.

Soccer Shin Guards!Not only do they prevent injury, they are now a mandatory piece of soccer equipment. It only makes sense. Most of the action is in that area of your body.

Soccer Socks!Soccer socks are used to hold your shin guards in place and are part of a complete soccer uniform. They used to be so plain and boring. Red, blue, green, yellow. You get the picture. But with increased interest in soccer comes increased options for colors. Can you say Fuschia soccer socks?

Soccer Shorts!Baggy shorts are not soccer shorts. They may be in-style but that does not mean that they are good for the soccer field. The less restrictive your shorts are, the better it is for your game. They also have to fit your team's uniform and take the beating that sliding, diving, and falling down will give them.

Soccer Jerseys!Your soccer jersey will express the personality of your team. And of course it should blend well with your shorts and socks. However some people want to buy replica soccer jerseys to support their favorite soccer club. Those are available for every major soccer team in the world.

Soccer Goalkeeper Gear!Outfitting a soccer goalkeeper is the same as any player on the field, with a few differences:

Goalkeepers wear shorts or long pants with padding on the hips. This padding helps prevent injuries from the numerous times that they dive for a ball during a game.
Goalkeepers wear special goalkeeper gloves to give them a better grip on the ball.
A goalie jersey usually has padding on the elbows to reduce the impact on their bodies when they land.
With all that gear, a great choice to carry it all is a soccer backpack.

I actually still have some soccer uniforms from when I was 16. Go figure?

Wayne MacLean has over 30 years of experience in the game of soccer. As a soccer coach, soccer player, soccer referee, and all-around soccer fan, Wayne is now adding a new dimension to his love of soccer. He now writes many articles and creates soccer videos to help those that are involved in soccer, are new to soccer, or just want to know more about soccer. Check out my Soccer Gear for more great soccer information for yourself or your team.

The Soccer Drill Sargeant

Soccer Fitness - 5 Reasons Running May Be Outdated For Soccer Conditioning

Regardless if you play recreational soccer, are a soccer coach or a parent with a child involved in soccer, it is important for you to know how to train for soccer fitness properly.

Unfortunately there are still people out there who lack the current information on fitness training for soccer and suggest running to get into shape for soccer. This is fine if soccer was played at a steady pace and the movement of the game was in one direction. Obviously you and I know this is not the case.

It does not matter the level of soccer, house league, rep, state/provincial, national, men's or women's recreational soccer, you must train the energy, muscular and nervous systems they way they are needed in a soccer game.

Soccer is a game of sprints, stops/starts, change of direction and recovery. It is not played at a steady pace.

It is still thought that all you have to do is go for a run for your soccer fitness because the run is "aerobic".

This information may be outdated for the following reasons:

1. Running is in only direction - forward. Running is with out any stops, starts, change of direction and sprints.

2. Running teaches the muscles work in a forward direction. You must remember that in a soccer game, the body moves in many different directions. Again this does not happen in a run.

3. Running is set at a certain pace. Soccer is filled with bursts of energy and recovery. Again this does not happen in a run.

4. The range of motion at the hip is limited in a run to a set pace. In a soccer game the hip moves in many different directions and at different speeds. This is why some soccer players end up with pulled or torn hamstrings, quads or groin muscles if they only run for soccer fitness.

5. Running trains the body to move at a set pace. The brain is programmed to move at this pace and not any higher. Then when you go for a sprint or sudden stop or a change of direction the body does not have any idea what to do. This usually ends up in an injury.

To better serve your soccer fitness you must look at other methods for training. One of the most effective ways to train for soccer conditioning is through intervals. Basically you work hard for a short period of time and then recover and repeat the process for a specific time. This type of training is excellent for soccer fitness because it relates to the energy out put in a soccer game.

Author: Mike Grafstein

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Soccer and Its History

Modern day soccer can generally trace it's beginning to England in the 1800's although many countries and cultures can lay claim to forms of soccer dating back centuries. Who knows ancient man likely kicked around rocks in prehistoric forms of soccer.

Among popular stories about the origin of soccer is from the 8th century when a Prince from Denmark was beheaded. The story is told that his head was kicked around on the ground and used like ball. King Edward III had to pass laws attempting to stop people from playing the game as it's origins are claimed to have resulted in injury and death.

But generally modern soccer can be traced to England in the 1800's played by the upper classes, the Aristocracy. It wasn't long before soccer was played by the common classes and that's where it's popularity ultimately took hold. Soccer is a simple and inexpensive sport and was easily adopted throughout the world. Many countries live and die by their beloved soccer clubs and teams.

Founded in 1863 the London Football Association formalized the games rules throughout Europe. Soon professional teams were formed and soccer heros were born.

Soccer spread quickly and was first played in the Olympics in 1900 at the turn of the Century. In 1904 the Federation Internationale de Football Association known as FIFA was created and the first World Cup competitions were held in 1930. Every four years the 24 best teams from around the world compete for the World Cup.

In the United States the United States Soccer Federation was formed in 1913, but soccer has never gained the widespread popularity that soccer enjoys in the rest of the world.

In America to call soccer "football" is unacceptable. Football in America is a completely different sport. Soccer has found widespread popularity in schools and soccer clubs throughout the U.S. since the mid seventies and American soccer teams have done well in international play.

Major League Soccer (MLS), founded in 1993, consisted of 10 teams when it began it's first season of competition in 1996. An estimated 3 million fans watched the playoffs that year. Today in 2010 MLS consists of 16 teams and will expand to 18 teams on 2011.

As the sport of soccer evolved so did the soccer ball. Possibly the very first ball was a human head, or human skulls. Heads and skulls not being acceptable today, the evolution of the soccer ball through the years has consisted of sewn-up wads of cloth, even animal bladders, to finally the introduction of a leather ball.

Later the invention of rubber led to Charles Goodyear creating a rubberized soccer ball in 1855. After FIFA was formed standardization of the soccer ball was included in the formal rules that were adopted. Today inflatable soccer balls are used that are not only suitable for kicking but can be "headed" without knocking out the player due to the heavy leather initially used.

Soccer shows no signs of slowing down throughout the world, it's growth in terms of both professional teams and recreational plays promise to continue and prosper.

Ethan has been an online writer for nearly 2 years now. Not only does this author specialize in sports, finance, and product reviews, you can also check out his latest website on Omron HJ-112 which reviews and lists the best Omron HJ-112 Pedometer for an accurate distance record.

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