About Marney Egan Expertise I can answer almost any question about the game of soccer (drills to practice, what to do in different situations, calls made by the referee, gear to use, fitness, etc.). I was a goalie in HS and college so I am able to answer more specific questions about this position. I can also provide insight on the college game (recruitment process, what to expect, etc.).
PLEASE INCLUDE YOUR AGE AND EXPERIENCE WITH THE GAME SO I CAN PROVIDE AN ANSWER CATERING TO YOUR AGE AND ABILITY. THANKS!!
Experience I have been playing soccer for 20 years (10 years as a goalie) and played at a D-I college. My father played professionally and has been a personal coach for my siblings and me through our careers (we have all played in college). I am currently coaching a U-13 Girls club soccer team and have also coached at several college camps during the summer including one hosted by the US Naval Academy.
Organizations Coach for Allegheny Force Football Club.
Education/Credentials Degree from Bucknell University; attended numerous soccer camps over the years including ones hosted by Notre Dame (Women's D-I National Champs) and Messiah College (Women's D-III National Champs).
Awards and Honors Patriot League Academic Honor Roll; Captain of high school soccer team.
Question My 14yr old son is now playing soccer -8th grade - thru school sports - and has been complaining of sore feet. He does have new cleats -Adidas -we purchased this summer,but says the shoes are fine- but his heal and back part of feet hurt- are there any exercises to do for this -or should we take him to the doctor. His main sport is hockey- and doesn't have any problems with his skates,but I know it is not the same as running on uneven ground- our soccer field is not the greatest- very lumpy! Just checking to see if you had any suggestions? (He has played soccer in years past- except for last year- and did not have problems then)
Answer Cindy,
It sounds like your son might need some additional support or cushioning in his shoes. Hockey skates and soccer shoes are similar in the fact that the insoles are not really built to support the foot. However, when skating you use a gliding motion as opposed to the pounding that your feet sustain while running several miles during the course of a soccer match. This may account for why his feet hurt after soccer but not after hockey.
During my career, I often wore down the insoles faster than the actual cleat so I decided to replace them with gel inserts (the kind you find at a grocery or drug store). They worked so well and provided enough support that I use them all the time in my cleats even if they are brand new. I suggest trying some with his cleats and see if the pain goes away. If it continues then I would recommend seeing a doctor. Also, I understood his "feet hurting" to mean that they were sore. If this is not the case and he is feeling more of a pull or strain then I would take him to see a physician because it could be something more serious.
