Does My Child Need a Soccer Ball for Practice?

Yes, your child should usually bring their own soccer ball to practice. Coaches often ask each player to have one so drills run without waiting for shared balls. A personal ball also means your child can practice dribbling and juggling at home, which is where real skill growth happens. Even short daily sessions with their own ball build touch faster than practice alone.

Why a personal ball helps

Practice time is limited, and drills move faster when every kid has a ball at their feet. More touches per session means faster improvement. At home, even 10 minutes of backyard juggling a few times a week builds touch and confidence. The key is the right size, a ball that is too big teaches bad kicking habits. See ball size for a 6-year-old and ball size for a 10-year-old.

What to buy

For young kids, a basic machine-stitched training ball is perfect, it is durable and affordable. Look for a butyl bladder, which holds air longer than latex, so you are not pumping it up weekly. Write your child’s name on it in permanent marker, balls migrate at team practices. Bring a small pump to the first few sessions too, since team balls are often underinflated. We showcase jerseys rather than balls, so pick one up at any sports store. The full equipment rundown is in the Youth Soccer Gear Checklist, and jersey help is in the Complete Kids Soccer Jersey Guide.

Ball sorted? Browse the jersey collection to complete your child’s kit.