Blogs - Page 2 of 19 - This Week In Soccer

Health

Beating the Heat: What the 2026 World Cup Teaches Us About Soccer and Extreme Weather

If you’ve been watching any of Club World Cup or the Gold Cup, you may have noticed hydration break–actual stops in the play to allow players to drink some water. So, heat’s a major concern thinking ahead to the World Cup next summer. Imagine lining up for kickoff, sweat already pouring, in a stadium where […]

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Health

How Concussion Education Can Make Soccer Safer

Picture this: it’s a Saturday morning youth match, and your star midfielder takes a hard bump to the head. They shake it off, say they’re fine, and keep playing. No one reports it—until symptoms show up hours later. For too many soccer players, that’s the norm. But new science says it doesn’t have to be. […]

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Health

How Header Policies Are Reducing Youth Concussions

Soccer is more than just a game; it’s a way of life for millions. But as much as it brings joy and builds community, it also comes with risks, especially for young players. Recent research sheds light on how simple policy changes—like limiting headers in youth soccer—have significantly reduced concussion rates. This blog breaks down […]

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Culture

Making Soccer Accessible for All

Imagine you’re a soccer parent: your child shows remarkable talent, scoring goals and making friends on the field. Their coach suggests they join a competitive league to take their skills to the next level. You’re thrilled—until you see the costs. Soccer cleats, uniforms, tournament fees, and travel expenses quickly pile up, leaving you wondering how […]

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Health

Protecting Young Soccer Players from Hidden Risks

Picture this: it’s the final minutes of a tightly contested match. Players are diving for headers, colliding mid-air, and pushing their limits. As a coach, parent, or club leader, you’re focused on the game’s outcome. But what about the unseen impacts on your players’ brains? New research reveals that repetitive, seemingly minor head impacts—called subconcussions—can […]

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Culture

How Soccer Builds Positive Bonds in Unique Spaces

Imagine a soccer match where the stakes go beyond trophies or league titles. What if the goal was to create a sense of belonging, reduce conflict, and offer a pathway to a brighter future? Soccer, a sport known for uniting communities worldwide, is making strides off the pitch in a surprising arena—prisons. A groundbreaking program […]

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Development

Understanding U.S. Soccer’s New Player Registration Policies

U.S. Soccer has announced a significant update regarding player registration, providing clarity for parents, coaches, and league administrators. These changes, set to take effect over the next few years, aim to empower local organizations while ensuring a smooth transition. Here’s a summary of what you need to know. What’s Changing? Starting in the Fall 2026-2027 […]

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Development

Superstar Bias: A New Perspective on Soccer Performance Evaluations

Imagine watching a highlight reel of the greatest goals from last season’s Premier League. Kevin De Bruyne nets a long-range stunner, and Mohamed Salah weaves through defenders for an unbelievable solo effort. Now, consider this: if you didn’t know their identities, would you still rate their performances as highly? Superstar Bias: What the Research Says […]

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Culture

What Type of Soccer Draws Viewers?

As we get closer to Boxing Day, it’s worth looking at what makes some matches must-see TV while others barely register a blip. A recent study (will download a .pdf) delves into the fascinating dynamics of soccer viewership, uncovering what captivates audiences and why it matters for the sport’s future. The Science of Soccer Viewership […]

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