Soccer's origin is unclear, because games similar to it were played around the world in ancient times. Most historians agree, that a game much like modern soccer was first played in Derby, England, around, 217 A.D., when Romans were in the country. The Romans probably passed along a game that they had started in earlier years. In England, the game became known as football. For centuries, football continued to be popular. The ball could be used only with the feet, the chest, or the head. Hands could not be used. Today soccer is a very popular sport. There are leagues all over the world. Soccer can be played at a very young age. It is a fun, but physical sport.
             In soccer, you need special equipment to protect yourself and to make playing the game easier. Soccer shoes are an important part of the game and should be chosen carefully to make sure they fit correctly. Shoes used for outdoor soccer games have rubber or plastic cleats. The cleats dig into the ground and make it easier to run. Soccer players usually wear shirts for practice and jerseys for games. Shorts and long socks make up the rest of the uniform. In games, players wear shin guards to protect their shins, usually worn under the socks.
             Goalie uniforms are little different then regular players. The goalie stays in his or her team's goal to try to stop balls from entering it. The goalie wears gloves and a uniform that has extra padding. The goalie's uniform has to be a different color than his or her teammates' uniforms.
             You should always have water or Gatorade when playing soccer, so you do not get dehydrated. When you play you should have fun and be safe, so make sure you wear the right equipment!
             When playing soccer you have to follow the rules. The amounts of players that are on the field depend upon the age group. The maximum is eleven players, which is usually played by age groups of 12 and up.
             Only the goalie is allowed to use ha...