subject: The Birth of Soccer [print this page] The Birth of Soccer The Birth of Soccer
The popularity of soccer may be steadily rising over the last 3 decades. All through America, nowadays there are around 3 million soccer players. This kind of count is just for those who fall within the age group of 5 to 19 years.
England is the birth place of Soccer. Long ago in 1800s, it was a game of classes and was played by high society aristocratic English people in their private clubs. However, because of its ease and inexpensive, it hardly took time to become common game among the masses. No wonder, today it?s counted between the most often played game.
The guidelines of this game were standardized throughout Europe by the London Football Association the London Football Association. This association was founded in 1863. Soon after this, several professional players and team begun to appear on the soccer field.
In no time, Soccer was distributed in different parts of Europe. Countries like Germany, Spain and France really are a just a couple to mention where the game was taken up in early 20th century. With the growing interest within the sport, the eye within the formal competitions rose too. Soccer was initially played in Olympics in 1900 and medals were introduced just eight years after that. For many decades however, the professional players were not allowed in competitions held in the Olympics.
The Federation International de Football Association was formed in 1904 and also the first world cup international competition was held in 1930. Presently there are about 200 teams seeking admittance in World Cup but currently only 24 are permitted to compete.
The United States Soccer Federation (USSF) was formed in 1913 however it took many years for us to enter into international soccer. For a long period, Americans in general preferred watching American Football, the industry little different form of sport. However, things changed when Pele, one of the biggest soccer players from Brazil joined the new York Cosmos team in 1975. He changed the outlook of Americans towards football. It was unfortunately short-lived as Pele retired just a couple of years later, resulting the dissolution of Soccer League because of insufficient support from fans.
Further in 1994, Americans interest in the soccer was rejuvenated once the men's world cup competition was held in Usa. The main League Soccer (MLS) that was founded in 1993 began its first season in 1996. There were 10 teams with 32 games and most 3 million fans involved in this event. By 1991, the game was formally extended to women to become played on professional level and the Women's Soccer world cup was introduced.
Today, Americans interest in soccer is becoming strong and continues to grow. You will find soccer teams and soccer leagues in almost all American communities. Players of interests and ages are getting down on the soccer field during spring and fall competitions. No surprise, U.S. Youth Soccer has around 3 million official players on its list.
Ask-Bob.com replies to the question who invented soccer?
