When COVID-19 came about earlier this year, it changed the way sports facilities do things. Many spaces limited the amount of traffic. And other facilities moved from indoor to outdoor, including soccer facilities.
The thing about soccer though is it’s a flexible sport, regardless of Coronavirus. That’s one of the reasons why people around the world love it as much as they do. Some even say it’s the best sport ever created. (Is it? Tell us in the comments.) While we don’t like to play sports favorites, we can give you a list of more reasons why soccer is popular at any time of year. But, especially now!
1. It’s good for you
Okay, so the first one is a bit obvious. But, it’s still worth mentioning. Soccer is fantastic for cardiovascular health, with all the continuous running. Plus, it builds strength and endurance, improves flexibility, and lowers body fat, to name a few.
Normally: Any kind of exercise is good for the body and mind.
In a COVID-19 world: Everyone appreciates how exercise is extra good for the body and mind right now. They are searching for a good way to keep active and soccer could be a solution.
2. It can be played anywhere
Because soccer doesn’t need much equipment, it can be played in pretty much any open space. For example, at a soccer facility or on a soccer field, yes. But it can also be played on any field, in someone’s backyard, at the beach, or even on the street.
Normally: When soccer players aren’t in an organized game at their soccer facility, they often start-up friendly matches at parks.
In a COVID-19 world: Being able to play the game anywhere is an even bigger blessing. Soon, Indoor soccer facilities in the U.S will reopen in phases. But in the meantime, it’s nice to just get out of the house and get a game going wherever. Check with your local parks to be sure they are open. While many playgrounds remain closed, plenty of open fields have the green light.
3. It can be modified to be socially distant
True, the occasional collisions happen in Soccer. But for the most part, it isn’t a full-contact sport like American Football.
Normally: Both are entertaining to participate in, and watch.
In a covid-19 world: Right now the less physical contact, the better. And actually, even before covid-19, some indoor soccer facilities put on matches with reduced team sizes. So, the game isn’t affected in that sense.
4. It’s easy to learn
Normally: Soccer is generally easier to learn (and follow) than some of the other sports.
In a COVID-world: Beginners can test it out to stay active. Then, once they’re hooked and soccer facilities reopen, they can research how to play on an organized team with a local facility.
5. It can be played by anyone
It’s no secret taller athletes tend to perform better in Basketball and Volleyball. Or that smaller athletes do better in Tennis and Gymnastics. But the cool thing about soccer is- it’s a free-for-all. It doesn’t discriminate when it comes to shape or size. And everybody is welcome to be soccer players on the soccer field.
Normally: People of varying ages and sizes do equally well in soccer. And sometimes, the underdog surprises you. But that’s part of what makes it exciting!
In a COVID-19 world: Equal opportunity is especially encouraging in any setting. But it’s especially encouraging to have an equal sport opportunity in the current Coronavirus situation.
Soccer is great- especially now. It can be played anywhere, by anyone, at any time. Do you agree? Let us know your thoughts.
I’m a testament that it can be played by anyone. I was neither sporty or athletic but I was able to do the basic requirements for it!