Youth Inc Recommends: New to Soccer? Start Here: 10 Must-Know Resources for Parents

Starting a new sport can be exciting — and overwhelming. Soccer has its own language (what’s a “6” again?), its own culture, and a whole list of questions you didn’t even know to ask. Whether you're figuring out if your child is ready to play or trying to decode formations, this list is your go-to starting point. 

We’ve pulled together our favorite beginner-friendly resources — ones we’ve used ourselves or recommended to parents just starting the soccer journey. 

Here are 10 great resources to help you feel more confident as a new soccer parent: 

Soccer Positions Explained

What it is: A friendly breakdown of every soccer position, jersey number, and basic formation. 

Why we like it: Perfect for that first moment you hear someone say “she plays the 10,” and you’re nodding... but have no idea what that means. This clears it up fast.

Soccer Basics Every Parent Needs to Know 

What it is: A guide to the foundational stuff — age groupings, field sizes, ball sizes, game length, and more. 

Why we like it: It answers all those first-timer questions you don’t even know to ask yet. A must-read if you’re totally new to youth soccer. 

Is My Child Ready to Play a Sport?

What it is: A developmental guide to help you figure out whether your child is truly ready to join a team sport.

Why we like it: It’s not just about physical ability. Mojo helps parents think about attention span, emotional readiness, and social skills too — in a way that feels reassuring, not judgmental. 

Is Soccer the Right Sport for My Child?

What it is: A thoughtful guide that focuses on your child's interest, not just performance or popularity.

Why we like it: This is about joy and curiosity — not comparison or pressure. It encourages you to follow your child’s natural engagement, which we love. 

What Sport Should My Child Play?

What it is: A short but powerful piece that walks you through three questions to help figure out if your child is in the right sport.

Why we like it: It’s honest, practical, and comes from experience. And yes — sometimes the best parenting move is saying, “Let’s try something else.” 

Why Soccer Is a Good Sport for Young Children

What it is: A quick explainer on why soccer is such a great entry sport for kids — especially the little ones. 

Why we like it: Low barrier to entry. No bats or fancy gear. Just running, kicking, laughing, and learning teamwork. A perfect start for young movers. 

Pros and Cons of Club Soccer

What it is: A clear breakdown of what club soccer really involves — the costs, the time, and the family commitment it requires. 

Why we like it: It’s not trying to sell you. It’s here to help you make the right decision for your family — not someone else’s.

How Hard Is It to Get a College Scholarship?

What it is: A detailed guide from NCSA on what it actually takes to earn a women’s soccer scholarship. 

Why we like it: It gives a clear and concise picture of the future should your child excel and want to play in college.

The Soccer Checklist

What it is: A one-stop checklist for gear, game-day prep, and everything your player will need. 

Why we like it: This saves you from forgetting the one thing they actually needed at their first game. Send this to every new parent on your team.

Soccer Rules Simply Explained

What it is: A YouTube video that breaks down the most common youth soccer rules in easy, visual language.

Why we like it: A very simple cartoon for you and your child that explains the basics of soccer. Offsides? Handballs? Substitutions? This helps you follow the game (and your child) with way more confidence on the sidelines.