The Cost of Playing Soccer
Posted on October 22, 2007 by Him and tagged fun, health
photo: Albirecks
I first played soccer when I was just 6 years old; I continued to play regularly until high school, when the lure of girls and money from my part-time job seemed more important. I didn't start playing regularly again until a few years ago when Her and I moved to Chicago. Except for recovering from some surgery, I've been playing regularly for the last 3 years. Here's what I've had to spend to get back into soccer as an adult:
Shin Guards -$10
I see people who play without shin guards and it makes me cringe. I've seen these things costing as little as $5, and they generally last forever. I personally don't feel as if there's much difference between brands or models.
Knee Brace - $30
Since I got knee surgery, I thought I'd get a little insurance in the form of a knee brace. After reading the scientific literature though, the effectiveness of a knee brace in preventing injury is questionable. Even if there is no benefit to wearing one, psychologically I like having it on. I do suffer from a minor loss in flexibility, but it is a small price to pay for (supposed) injury prevention.
Goalie gloves - $30
I don't play goalie every week, but there are times when I'm needed at this position. Gloves often come with a multitude of features, from padded knuckles for punching the ball to gecko-like gripping for catching. Regardless of features, just having gloves is an improvement versus playing bare-handed.
Shoes - $40
Just like with running, a good pair of shoes can go a long way in preventing injury and even enhancing performance. As with gloves, shoes can also come with a variety of features, from special cleats to additions that can help you "bend it like Beckham" (who will not be in the playoffs because of the L.A. Galaxy's loss to the CHICAGO FIRE hahaha).
Clothing - $60
This includes socks and a goalie jersey. Both of those have very useful functions of providing comfort and preventing cuts and scrapes from falls or slides. I didn't include shorts because I wear the ones I bought for running.
League fees - $280/year
This is by far the most expensive - actually being able to play. I play four seasons with my team - spring, early summer, late summer, and fall. The cost to enter a team per season is usually around $1200, so I end up paying around $70/season.
Getting back into soccer is one of the best things that I have done in my current post-college days. I've met new friends, have a lot of competitive fun, and have another reason to stay in shape. All of the equipment costs of the are one time costs, so playing more helps me get the most out of it.
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I think getting involved in that kind of thing is best when you're in a league vs. a gym. Because in a league you're generally on a team and all that. Gym's something you've got to do on your own.
We play indoor netball (sort of like basketball) in a social comp.
It's $10 per player per game - and only $10 upfront to cover insurance.
Apart from the hassles of putting together a team, it's been a great, cheap, entertaining sort of exercise.
so if the league fees are expensive, maybe you should look into it?
Mel | Oct 22, 2007
The cost for the league are worth it! I played soccer until last year when I completely screwed up my knee and I just haven't gotten back into it yet. I LOVED my team. There is something so great with working together, the comraderie, that makes league sports great. Plus soccer is an awesome way to stay in shape!
Exercise and something enjoyable. I think hat's a good way to spend your money. You're helping your health and it's not a big hit too the wallet.
Sarah | Oct 24, 2007
That price isn't bad at all... plus you're doubling up with entertainment and exercise dollars.
To put things in perspective, my husband was asked to join a hockey league, $400 for 3-4 (?) months of ice time and sessions. Plus he'd have to buy his own gear. Thankfully he politely declined.
When we have children we're encouraging soccer 100%!
Fortunate | Oct 30, 2007
Soccer is sooo worth the money. I have been playing since I was 5 and I cringe at the thought that I might have to stop one day. The benefits are well-worth the cost. I stay healthy without having to go to the gym (well, I do go but thatâ s because I want to win but I donâ t have to go just to stay healthy). I don't have to constantly update my wardrobe to accommodate an aging/growing waistline. My mood is better during soccer seasons; soccer is social, gets you out in the fresh air, and pumps you full of endorphins. Plus, it saves me more money than it costs. I am guilty of shopping out of boredom and for recreation; when I have a Saturday game that doesn't happen. And believe me I can easily blow way more than league fees at the mall if I'm bored enough. I could go on ad nauseam, but I think you get my point.
Gigi | Oct 22, 2007
I just read an article that said a neoprene knee sleeve is just as good as a knee brace. You might try tat.
On a side note, I haven't gotten back into soccer or tennis because of the league costs. It doesn't seem worth it, so I sit on my butt or go to the gym.
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