Unsurprisingly around 70% of soccer injuries happen to feet and legs, and majority happen during matches. Find out here how to recognize injuries and what action to take.

1. How To Recognize Injuries
In Your Junior Soccer
Players

2. Soccer injuries are usually caused by either overuse or
trauma, although you should also look out for
dehydration, especially during hot weather.

3. Unsurprisingly around 70% of soccer injuries happen to
feet and legs, and majority happen during matches.
In saying that, arm injuries are more common in the
under 10 age range as they tend to put their arms out
to break their fall.
Fortunately, most injuries are only minor but still need
to be taken seriously.

4. Overuse injuries generally happen over a period of
time.
What commonly happens is that a muscle, joint or
other soft tissue becomes inflamed and because there
are insufficient periods of rest the condition becomes
progressively worse.
What starts as a dull pain or ache gradually
worsens, because of the lack of rest, to the point where
serious damage could be experienced.

5. Trauma injuries are the most common form of soccer
injury and are usually caused by sudden impact with
the ground, goal post or another player.
This type of injury tends to be more obvious as the
chances are that you would have seen the cause.
You should make an immediate assessment of the
suitability for the player to carry on.

6. In a lot of cases the pain is just momentary and the
player will be able to continue, however, you may have
to consider withdrawing them from the game or
training, especially if a child receives a heavy blow to
the head.
If a child appears to be suffering from
concussion, dislocation or you suspect a broken bone
seek professional medical help immediately.

7. As a junior soccer coach you have the opportunity to
see your players on a regular basis and because of this
familiarity with your youngsters you should be able to
spot if any of them are showing signs of injury.

8. Look for changes in their movement;
• are they not chasing about the field like they
normally do?
• are they limping?
• are they showing any signs of pain on their faces?
• are they generally looking lethargic?

9. If you have any suspicions that they are carrying an
injury you should approach the player to ask them how
they feel.

10. They may well tell you that they have pain but want to
carry on, or they may say it is nothing, but it is your
duty to make an assessment with the intention of
either get them to stop immediately or let them
continue for the time being; if the condition persists
then you must call a halt to their participation: Never
ignore it.
Tell their parents and, if necessary, suggest to them
that they seek medical advice.

11. To reduce the chances of injury make sure your players
warm up before a match or training and have a cool
down afterwards.
Encourage them to drink plenty of fluids (particularly in
warm weather), rest regularly and not train if injured.

12. My website SoccerTrainingForKids.com is full of
hints, tips, drills and techniques to improve your team's
performance and increase your knowledge as a coach.
Why not take the opportunity to sign up for my free
five day mini course specifically designed for people like
you, the brand new soccer coach.

13. Follow us on Twitter : @SoccerT4Kids