The Origins of Soccer

Although soccer is considered the most popular sport in the world, with more than 250 million people enjoying the game in more than 200 different countries across the globe, researchers are stunned when it comes to explaining its origins. It’s highly likely that the sport originated in countries like Ancient Greece, China, or even Rome.

In these destinations, history explains that people used to kick around a ball that was made from leather. Recent studies have also suggested that China, Ancient Rome, and Greece have enjoyed the game in the 3rd or even the 2nd centuries. However, when it comes to the rules of the game back then, they were much more complicated. England is the country that changed the face of the sport and provided it with its present picture.

The History of Soccer

During the early days, punching, gouging, and even kicking opponents formed part of the sport as long as the overall objective was met. The primary aim of the game was to score a goal. The end primarily justified it as opposed to the means. The rules of the game soon began emerging once the sport was introduced in England. During this time when the competition took effect in the country, some associations started regulating the sport and forming new rules of the game.

The introduction of the sport in England created various issues, including the neglect of duties and even violence. Most people quickly developed a passion for the competition, and it quickly swept across the nation. In 1365, King Edward III decided to ban the game, and in 1924 King James I made a statement that no one shall play football. In most cases, violence would be the answer when both players and fans were not happy with the result.

Development of Soccer Rules

Regulations and rules governing the sport were initially established in the country of England. The associations of football were also part of the lawmaking procedure. After it was introduced into learning institutions, the sport was separated from rugby, and various game rules were established. Some of the first rules banned players from holding the ball with their own hands, and the ball was limited to only be controlled by the head, torso, and feet.

During 1891, soccer witnessed a real game changer in the sport thanks to the introduction of the penalty kick. This new rule was created to deal with misconduct on the pitch, mainly when it occurred close to the penalty area. The law was also designed to take care of other issues like when two teams ended up with a draw. During 1970, yellow and red cards were introduced to the game to take care of rogue players on the field with a red card and to warn players of an issue with a yellow card. Some minor rules were introduced at a later stage, but these are some of the essential practices in the game that still exists to this day.