Stepping into the world of soccer can feel like entering a foreign country where everyone speaks a language you don't understand. Coaches yell instructions you can't decipher, other parents casually use phrases that you don’t understand. Don't worry though, because every soccer parent started exactly where you are now. 

Learning the basic terminology of the game not only helps you follow what's happening on the field but also allows you to better communicate with others. Here's a straightforward guide to the essential terms and concepts you'll encounter as a youth soccer parent.

Basic Field and Game Terms

Starting with the fundamentals. The pitch or field is where the game is played, with two goals at opposite ends. The large box in front of each goal is the penalty box or 18-yard box, where certain fouls result in penalty kicks. The smaller box inside it is the goal box or six-yard box, where goal kicks are taken.

A goal kick happens when the attacking team kicks the ball over the end line, and the defending team restarts play by kicking from inside the goal box. A corner kick is the opposite though. When the defending team kicks it out, the attacking team gets to kick from the corner. Throw-ins restart play when the ball goes out of bounds on the sidelines. A free kick is awarded after fouls, and it can be either direct (can score directly) or indirect (must touch another player first before a goal counts).

Common Positions and Formations

One of the most important things is to understand the positions of the game. This will ultimately help you follow the game and know what role your child is playing. Goalkeeper or keeper is the player who guards the goal and can use their hands. Defenders or backs play in front of the keeper and try to prevent the other team from scoring. This includes center backs (middle defenders) and outside backs or fullbacks (defenders on the sides).

Midfielders or mids play in the middle of the field, connecting defense and attack. They are also split into a few different categories. Defensive midfielders focus more on defense, attacking midfielders push forward more, and wide midfielders or wingers play on the sides. Then, forwards or strikers are the primary attackers whose main job is scoring goals. 

Skills and Techniques You'll Hear About

Dribbling means controlling the ball with your feet while running. Passing is exactly what it sounds like, but there are many different types of passes. A through ball is passed into space for a teammate to run onto, while a square pass goes sideways across the field. Crossing means passing the ball from the sideline into the penalty box, usually in the air.

Trapping or receiving is how you control the ball when it comes to you. Then, a first touch is how well a player controls the ball on their initial contact. Shooting is attempting to score, and a volley is shooting the ball while it's in the air without letting it bounce. Heading means using your head to direct the ball.

Tactical Terms and Concepts

Offside is probably the most confusing rule for new parents. To put it most simply, an attacking player can't be closer to the opponent's goal than the second-to-last defender when the ball is passed to them. It's designed to prevent cherry-picking.  Possession refers to which team has control of the ball. Pressing means aggressively defending high up the field to win the ball back quickly. Coaches often talk about switching the field or switching the point of attack, which means moving the ball from one side to the other to find space.

Common Phrases and Jargon

You'll hear mark up or find your mark, which means defenders should pick up their assigned player. Man on is a warning that an opponent is approaching. Time or you have time tells a player they have space and don't need to rush. Turn or face up encourages a player to turn and face the goal with the ball.

Don't Be Afraid to Ask Questions

The soccer community can seem intimidating when you're new, but most coaches and experienced parents are happy to explain things. If you're confused about what position your child plays or what the coach wants them to work on, have a conversation. Your child is learning soccer, and you're learning how to be a soccer parent. 

The terminology will become second nature over time, and before you know it, you'll be the one casually explaining to a newer parent some of the terms you may have been confused about as well. It’s so worth it to make an effort to learn about the sport. Your child will appreciate your efforts!