Sports allow children to learn new skills, socialize, be active, and most importantly have fun! If your child is a natural talent or you both share a passion for soccer, the question may come to mind: Is it time they play competitively? Deciding whether to make the switch into a competitive league can be a challenging one. Here are five things to consider when deciding if your athlete should advance into a competitive soccer league.

1. How old and mature are they?

With competition comes the stress of winning and losing, and a constant measure of performance. This can be difficult for young children to grasp and understand, so it’s important that your child is mature enough to embrace these factors. If your athlete lacks focus or drive, they might benefit from a few more years of recreational soccer before making the switch to a competitive league.

2. Are they passionate about the sport?

With competition comes the stress of winning and losing, and a constant measure of performance. This can be difficult for young children to grasp and understand, so it’s important that your child is mature enough to embrace these factors. If your athlete lacks focus or drive, they might benefit from a few more years of recreational soccer before making the switch to a competitive league.

3. Are they advancing faster than others? 

Every athlete progresses at their own pace. If you notice that your child is losing their love for the sport because they aren’t being pushed in their current league, this may be a sign to think about advancing. If they’re showing a higher level of skill than others but are happy where they are, that’s great too!

4. How good are their soccer skills?

Unfortunately, an athlete’s passion for a sport doesn’t always translate into skill. In a competitive league, playing time and results come from ability and teamwork. Pushing your child into a competitive league when they are not yet skilled enough, may result in a loss of enjoyment for the sport or hinder their confidence. If you and their coach feel like they have the skills it takes to play higher up, then why not try it out!

5. Do they express the want to play competitively?

If your child expresses that they want to play in a competitive league, this may be your first sign to consider it. They might want to take the sport more seriously or be pushed harder to improve as a player. As a parent, it’s your call to make sure your athlete is old enough and ready to take on a much harder level. If they don’t have any desire to play competitively, don’t force them to do so!

Every athlete is different so there is no definitive answer to whether they should play competitive soccer or not. You and your child should weigh the pros and cons of making the switch and do what is best for your schedule!

Have an athlete who has a passion for the sport? Head to SoccerCards.ca and get them some gear to make game days even better!