Concussions and Fútbol

Over the past several years, I have accumulated seven different concussions; some of which are from soccer. I have finally realized that the repeated head traumas are not worth the long term consequences. For example, a couple years back I was playing in a tournament in Binghamton, NY in which we were getting killed in a game. At one point in the game our keeper was out of position as someone took a shot so I immediately jumped in the way and saved a shot with my head in which I received a concussion. As I think back on the game, we were already losing the game by a few goals, so even if I had let the goal in, it would not have made a difference. At the end of my junior year during soccer season, I had scored 5 goals with my head. I always thought that as long as you don't get hit hard you couldn't have brain problems. But now as new studies are coming out, soccer players who use their head quite often are having similar chemical changes occurring in their brain, found in concussion patients. I have experienced a few symptoms which may continue to turn into long term problems because of my repetitive head injuries. When you get a concussion, the grey matter in your brain is altered by chemicals, which can lead to memory loss, problems concentrating, and depression. Heading the ball during games is an important aspect, but you need to be smart about it. Balance the risks and rewards before going into a game. Play smart. Keep your head safe!

Live for a Pass

Look at any level of fútbol, what must occur for a team to be successful? Passing. No matter how talented an individual may be, if they cannot make a simple pass, they cannot be successful. I would rather have an individual on my team who can make simple passes one hundred percent of the time, rather than an individual who can dribble through several defenders. I have come to this idea because of the nature of the game. As many coaches do, if they have an individual who is very quick and has great dribbling abilities, they will put them up front as a striker.Which tactically makes sense, however, with this set up a simple game plan is presented; kick the ball up to the striker, let him run, get the ball, and score. There is almost no skill required in this style of play. This is what has become the predominant style of play in the United States. The reason I would rather take the player who "lives for a pass" is because this has the a style of play behind it that requires skill and team quality. In my opinion, a team that can hold and maintain control of the ball by simple passes is the better of the two teams, even if the opposition scores with a long ball to a striker who goes one on one with the keeper and scores. Being on competitive team requires you to be able to make simple passes. Live for a pass.