What The FIFA World Cupâ„¢ Can Teach Young Athletes

In case you haven’t snagged a sticker book, turned on the television, or checked any social media recently, TeamSnap is here to remind you that the 2022 FIFA World Cupâ„¢ is happening right now. This FIFA World Cupâ„¢ is held in Qatar and is the 22nd edition of  one of, if not the biggest sporting events on the planet. It may feel a little soon in terms of the year’s seasonality, because this is actually the first time since 1930 that the event is taking place in the winter.

Right now there are 32 teams fighting for a place to advance past the group stage. For the soccer fans out there, the World Cup only comes every four years and showcases the world’s best talent and match-ups. So, in case you’re just learning the hype around this event and or have a couple of a couple kids who are playing soccer, TeamSnap has come up with 5 teachable moments and takeaways from the FIFA World Cup. We hope you can take these 5 reasons and share them with your young athletes.

The FIFA World Cupâ„¢ can teach your young athlete…

ANYTHING is possible. If you haven’t seen it already (cough cough Saudi Arabia beating Argentina 2-1) the World Cup shows time and time and again that truly anything is possible. No matter what the FIFA ranking says, this game has a way of twisting and turning and completely surprising even the best players. For a young athlete, never get discouraged and feel like one game or one practice defines you. Take it from the fellas playing in the World Cup, they are playing on the world’s biggest stage but truly play as if they can win even against all odds.

The FIFA World Cupâ„¢  can teach your young athlete…

A glimpse into the real world. Even when the highlight goals, insane saves, and questionable calls dominate the headlines, it’s impossible to watch the World Cup and not see political zeitgeist. Also, societal! This could be a moment to talk to your child about what is going on outside your home and watch a game like soccer do its part to bring the world together.

The FIFA World Cupâ„¢ can teach your young athlete…

What it is like to be a fan. Part of sports, even as an athlete, is true fandom. When I was a young soccer player I truly became passionate about soccer when I watched the 1999 World Cup. It was the U.S. Women’s National Team that gave me a reason to play outside and juggle the soccer ball every single day. The World Cup is inspiring, and if your young athlete is ever feeling stuck, let this moment in history be a reminder to take the soccer ball, go outside, be fearless, and try something new.

The FIFA World Cupâ„¢ can teach your young athlete…

What it is like to play for something bigger than yourself. Often we overcomplicate things, especially sports. Our worlds can become small when we are fixated on becoming great or winning. The World Cup is a healthy reminder for young athletes, but also all athletes that the game is so much bigger than just you. Encourage your child to watch the players compete for one another, but also their country.

The FIFA World Cupâ„¢ can teach your young athlete…

Family. Often, what makes the World Cup so special is the way it can represent family. People will watch their country compete in the World Cup and feel like they are watching their family play for the ultimate title. It’s emotive, it’s real, and it truly is the epitome of everything for many countries. For me as a young girl growing up in the U.S. I saw my family watch the U.S. play, I saw my dad frustrated by the men’s team for so many years, but loyal. This devotion is teachable, because it helps your child feel the connection to where they came from.

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