Playing with a Local Team
Ninety minutes of playing football is surprisingly challenging, involving a great deal of fast running combined with physical challenges to win or retain the ball. Referees in particular face a stiff test as they must cover both ends of the pitch whereas players generally remain within more limited positions.
Nonetheless, even if you are not fit, this should not stop you from considering playing with a local team at an amateur level. Like the big clubs, teams that play the game for fun have to run a squad of players to cover illness, holidays, family commitments, etc., and are always on the lookout for new recruits.
Involvement might start with working as a linesman (now assistant referee), and this activity will help your fitness as well as reading the game more closely. You can also attend training sessions to further help with fitness and improve your ball skills and understanding of the game. Things look very different on the pitch and away from the high angle of the TV screen.
Some clubs at the lower end of the game (e.g. pub sides) often play ‘friendly’ matches with each half being only 30 minutes and have a number of extra substitutes for each team. This goes some way to opening up the game to the less fit and maximises participation.
Five a side matches are also fun, being played on smaller pitches and for shorter periods, and can be a useful introduction to the sport. The goals are lower and the ball must be kept low, which is a useful skill to master. So, if you are reasonably mobile and enjoy watching the game, why not have a go?
