Football explained for parents
Learn what each position does, how teams line up and what common coaching terms mean. You can also try our free football game with your child.
How to improve your child’s football IQ
Decision-making, game vision and scanning. Seven things to do this week.
Guide (US)Soccer IQ for kids: what it is and how to build it
Scan, choose, act. How parents can help without coaching from the sideline. Also: a 10-situation soccer IQ test.
GuideHow to prepare your child for a football trial
Academy trials and soccer tryouts, including MLS NEXT. The week before, the day and after.
GuideWhat do football academy scouts look for?
By age, where scouts watch, and what to do if one calls.
GuideIs my child good enough for a football academy?
What academies look for, the real numbers, and how to find out for free.
GuideMy child was scouted. What happens next?
The usual steps, five questions to ask the scout, and the red flags.
GuideHow to help your child get better at football
Six home drills, how often to practise, and helping without pushing.
Money guideCoaching, camps and apps: what is worth paying for
1-to-1 coaching, holiday camps, apps and courses. UK and US prices.
Formations by ageFootball formations by age
See how teams line up with five, seven, nine or eleven players.
GlossaryFootball terms explained
Look up terms used by coaches and academies. Includes common US terms.
Soccer rebounders for the backyard
Open Goaaal US pricing, backyard space and when a smaller rebounder makes more sense.
UK equipment guideFootball rebounders for the garden
Open Goaaal UK pricing, garden space and when a smaller rebounder makes more sense.
Where does your child play?
Centre-back
One or two defenders.
Position guideFull-back
Wide defenders barely exist.
Position guideCentral midfielder
Usually one or two in the middle.
Position guideWinger
Wide players are encouraged to dribble.
Position guideStriker
Score goals and press the defenders.
Position guideGoalkeeper
Small goals, small pitch.