Soccer has long been the world's most popular sport. Even here in the U.S., where soccer still trails other sports at the professional level, its popularity continues to grow. In fact it's one of the fastest-growing sports at the youth level with more than 3 million participants between the ages of 6 and 14.Because it's such a fast-growing sport, many parents don't really understand the game. After all, they grew up playing baseball, football, and basketball. So each spring, a new crop of parents - with folding chairs and water bottles in hand - escort their little ones to their first soccer game, beginning their quest to understand that other game called 'football.'The Complete Idiot's Guide to Soccer Basics explains anything and everything a parent or new coach (often a parent with no soccer experience) needs to know to understand the game and make the most of their children's soccer experience. Topics include:*Deciding where your child should play (AYSO or USSF program, recreational or travel team, etc.)*What equipment is needed for games and practices*Rules of the game and overview of the playing field*Player positions and how they vary with age*Dribbling techniques, skills, drills, and games*Passing techniques, skills, drills, and games*Shooting techniques, skills, drills, and games*Defensive techniques, skills, drills, and games*Goalie techniques, skills, drills, and games*Player formations*Plays and strategies*Parent etiquette and participation*Running or helping out with a practice