There are many ways to become a professional soccer player. The best way is to start playing at an early age. Most people start playing at around age 4 and continue until they graduate from high school (or college). After graduating from high school (or college), you can go straight into the professional leagues if you have what it takes.
Playing soccer well in the backyard or on an amateur team is one thing, but playing at a professional level is something else entirely. It’s not enough to play well or have excellent physical form to become a real soccer player, you have to put in maximum effort and time. To become the best at least in the region, you will have to devote time only to soccer and training.
So, where to start if you or your child wants to become a soccer player?
#1: Learn the rules
There is nothing to do in soccer without knowing the soccer rules and regulations, but to understand them it is enough just to watch the games, even as a child everything becomes quite clear and obvious.
If you’re a football player, it can’t hurt to learn as much as you can about the game and its strategies. Read books and articles, watch recordings of your past games or those that pique your interest, and think about these things from different perspectives.
That will sharpen your analytical mind and allow for better vision on the field.
#2: Practice a lot
Scientists have proven that successful people practice a lot, and it’s integral to success in any field. You need to practice for around 10 000 hours before becoming an expert. This is roughly equivalent to 5.5 hours every day for 5 years.
Training your physical and mental abilities is key to improving skills and gaining confidence. Always make time for practice, this game is addictive & there are millions of other players like you who have the same goal as you – get to the next level.
What separates those who succeed from those who fail is the amount of work put into improving.
You can also play soccer outside of your club. Try joining your school’s team, region or state squads. Attend special training camps. These are great as they’re usually very intense and run by professionals.
You can also practice on your own. Imagine a number of different scenarios and picture yourself facing defenders, the goalkeeper, and make your way around them. Practice the dribbles, shots and runs that you would make in those situations. This will help you to improve their skills like dribbling, reflexes, and decision making.
#3: Choose your position on the soccer field
Of course, most want to be strikers. But this requires special skills – speed, good dribbling, the ability to open up in the goal position. But other roles are just as interesting.
#4: Get in shape
One of the key factors that will affect your performance is your physical shape. You can work on your cardio to improve your stamina and endurance.
Soccer fitness does not have to be difficult. You should focus on exercises that are high-intensity and work on vital athletic aspects. With regular exercise, quality sleep, and a healthy diet you should not have any problems avoiding injuries or staying in good shape.
Step #5: Eat health food
Diet plays a crucial role in maintaining a high-quality physical form. For example, the rigorous eating habits of professional athletes help them perform at their best.
The best nutrition for soccer players consists of a balance of protein, carbohydrates, and fat.
Eating healthy and fueling your body in the right way will make your work on the field easier, so make sure you are eating proper meals with appropriate amounts.
#6: Watch your games
Nowadays, we have a lot of high-quality recording devices available. You can buy a device to specifically record your games. So, make sure someone records your games and share recordings to help show how well you play!
With soccer video profiles, you can promote yourself to scouts, get trials with many clubs.
Recording your games will enable you to review them extensively and evaluate your play from different perspectives. This can be a good way to identify any weaknesses that you could then focus on or work on. It’s also a good idea to take notes and plan out what you did and what you’ll do in the future
#7: Remain positive and motivated
There are many people who don’t believe in themselves, but the truth is that you have to believe in yourself if you want to succeed. It can also help if you stay positive and be motivated even through tough times.
Many people will try to discourage you and tell you that it is impossible: coaches, players, friends and your family. They might even laugh at your dream of becoming a soccer player.
Though negativity can come in many different forms, it’s important to always believe in yourself and your ability. Through things like positivity and proper preparation, you can build confidence and ensure that negatively minded people don’t affect your mindset.
Want to become a soccer player? It’s tough work, but if you have genuine passion for the game, it can really pay off in the end.
