How to Improve at Soccer

Home » Web Guides » Sports » Soccer

In This Guide

Most Popular

AP Photo/Paul White
USA's Jozy Altidore goes to score a goal as he is challenged by Spain's Carlos Puyol, right, during
their Confederations Cup semifinal soccer match in Bloemfontein, South Africa, June 24, 2009.

Soccer: The World's Sport on the Web

The sport of soccer, known as football in most other countries, has earned its title as "the world's sport" for obvious reasons. Although Major League Soccer (MLS) is still trying to build soccer's popularity in the United States, the enthusiasm and intensity surrounding the sport is the most widespread in the world. Whether you want to see what the fuss is about, are a confused soccer parent, or just can't get enough of the sport, this guide takes you to the Web's best soccer sites. For a Spanish-language version of the Guide, click here.

Expand All Guide Sections

Rules and History of Soccer

It's always helpful to know what you're watching before you watch it. This section sorts out all of ... read more »

Soccer Leagues and Organizations

As the world's game, soccer has many competitions played all over the globe. It can be tricky to ... read more »

Soccer Statistics

With the abundance of league, cup, and international competitions, it can be difficult to keep up ... read more »

News and Analysis of Soccer

Soccer evokes a high level of passion among its fans and followers. Hear what people have to say in ... read more »

Radio and Television Coverage of Soccer

There isn't a lot of soccer being broadcast in the United States but the Internet makes it simple ... read more »

Buying Soccer Tickets

The best way to truly appreciate a soccer game is from the stands, singing and cheering alongside ... read more »

How to Improve at Soccer

Although it might not seem that staring at your computer screen could transform you into a better soccer player, using the guidance of those more experienced than you can often prove very beneficial to your game. Use the Web sites in this section to read about the proper techniques for different soccer skills, good methods for training, specific drills that exercise your use of different abilities, and even guidance and advice for coaching teams and running practices.

Dulcinea's Insight

While advice can be very helpful, most players find that game experience is the best way to improve and test your competitive spirit. Check out the "Where can I find a place to play?" section of this guide to find leagues and pickup games in your area.

Learning from the pros is another common method to improve at soccer. Check out the game highlights for specific moves and skills or watch full games to observe strategy and team movement. The "Where can I find radio and television coverage?" section of this guide includes streaming video that you can use for learning.

Dulcinea's Picks

For tips and advice ...

Soccer Training Info has articles on improving your soccer game in terms of mindset, strategy, and conditioning. Look at the menu on the left for advice on specific skills and techniques. Many of the footwork skills link to videos of professional examples.

go to site »

Footy4kids features "How to Teach Basic Soccer Skills," a long list of links to articles that explain the fundamental ideas behind different soccer moves and strategies. With a separate section for offensive and defensive skills and even a guide to practice plans, this is a great tool for learning the keys to teaching and playing soccer.

go to site »

ExpertFootball.com gives tips and advice on perfecting the most fundamental soccer moves. Some sections have different methods and subsections for different skill levels. The "Related soccer questions" guide you through personal development and training.

go to site »

For drills, exercises, and coaching ...

SoccerXpert offers several pictures and explanations of drills for soccer practices. Along with the basic instructions, you'll find coaching points, setup, and possible variations. Navigate through the drills by choosing an age group at the top of the page.

go to site »

Coaching Soccer 101 is authored by a coach and recreational player who is dedicated to making soccer fun for kids. He gives advice to coaches in the form of drills, guides, and online tools. Each drill has an appropriate age group and a simple diagram of the setup.

go to site »

The North Alabama Soccer League provides a collection of online coaching manuals, several requiring Microsoft Word or Adobe Acrobat Reader. This archive includes manuals from different training and development programs as well as outlines for clinics and tryouts.

go to site »

The National Soccer Coaches Association of America has an "Educating Coaches" section with updates on upcoming coaching courses in different regions, coaching tips, video tips, a soccer journal, and more. The Association also offers its own news and conventions for interested coaches.

go to site »