Should I Play Soccer and Volleyball?
Should I play soccer or volleyball? This is a question that I hear a lot around this time of year. Both are primary fall sports and you can only play one of them in middle school and high school.
Both sports have their unique benefits and challenges, making it difficult to decide which one to pursue. Ultimately, the choice comes down to your history, personal preferences, skills, and goals.
If you enjoy fast-paced, high-energy games that require quick reflexes and endurance, soccer might be the sport for you.
On the other hand, if you prefer a more strategic, low-impact game that emphasizes precision and finesse, volleyball might be a better fit.
Also, soccer is typically played from the waist-down while volleyball is typically played above the shoulders.
In this article, we’ll take a closer look at both sports and help you decide which one might be a better match for you.
Physical Demands
Soccer Physicality
Soccer is a physically demanding sport that requires a lot of running, fast changes of direction, and explosive movements.
During a game, you can expect to run an average of 7 miles, with some players running up to 9 miles. This means that you need to have good endurance and stamina to keep up with the game.
Soccer also involves a lot of jumping and kicking, which require good leg strength and flexibility. It also requires the proper technique so you can prevent injuries.
Additionally, soccer involves a lot of contact with other players, so you need to be able to withstand the physical challenges of getting bumped and knocked to the ground.
Volleyball Physicality
Volleyball is also a physically demanding sport, but it requires a different set of skills.
Volleyball involves a lot of jumping, especially when spiking the ball or blocking a shot. This means that you need to have good leg strength and explosive power.
Volleyball also requires good hand-eye coordination and quick reflexes, as you need to be able to react quickly to the ball.
In addition, you need to be able to move quickly and change direction easily, as the ball can go in any direction.
Overall, both soccer and volleyball require a good level of fitness and athleticism. However, the specific physical demands of each sport are different. If you enjoy running and have good endurance, soccer might be a good choice for you. If you enjoy jumping and have good explosive power, volleyball might be a better fit.
Equipment and Cost
Soccer Equipment & Costs
To play soccer, you will need a few pieces of equipment, including cleats, shin guards, and a soccer ball.
Soccer cleats are shoes with studs on the sole that provide traction on the field and can cost anywhere from $30 to $250.
Shin guards are worn underneath your socks to protect your shins from getting kicked and can range from $10 to $50.
A soccer ball can cost between $10 and $60, depending on the quality and size.
The other big variable in cost is club fees. If you decide to play for your school then expenses are minimal…just equipment costs.
However, if you decide to play club soccer during the fall, you will most likely pay north of $2,500 for the year.
Volleyball Equipment & Costs
To play volleyball, you will need a few pieces of equipment, including volleyball shoes, knee pads, and a volleyball.
Volleyball shoes are designed to provide traction on the court and can cost between $50 and $150.
Knee pads are worn to protect your knees when diving for the ball and can cost around $20 to $50.
A quality volleyball can run between $20 and $50.
Again, if you plan on playing for your school, the cost is minimal.
I honestly don’t know much about how travel or club volleyball works. Compared to soccer, I think there are fewer originations focused on private competitive volleyball.
If cost is your primary factor, I think volleyball is the least expensive if you want to play privately. But, if playing for your school, it should be funded so the cost is minimal for each sport.
Social Aspects of Each Sport
Both soccer and volleyball provide a great way to meet new people and create new friendships.
Over the course of the season, you and your teammates will be on the same mission. In doing so, you’ll have an opportunity to create tight bonds.
Both sports are team sports which can help you be a better communicator, teammate, and leader. Collectively, you’ll go through tough times and good times. It’s how you navigate the tough times that will make you a better team.
All in all, you can’t go wrong with either sport when it comes to establishing a better social life.
Does Height Matter?
When it comes to playing soccer or volleyball, you may wonder if your height matters. The truth is, height can play a role in both sports, but it’s not the only determining factor for success.
Height in Soccer
In soccer, height can be an advantage in certain positions, such as goalkeeper or a center-back.
Taller players can reach higher to defend crosses and corner kicks, and they may have an easier time winning aerial duels.
However, especially in soccer, height doesn’t make an elite player. Speed, agility, quickness ball control, and teamwork are important skills to develop.
Just take a look at Messi who stands at 5’7”. He is the GOAT of soccer.
Height in Volleyball
In volleyball, height is often seen as an advantage, especially for hitters and blockers.
Taller players have a higher reach, which can make it easier for them to hit or block the ball.
However, shorter players can still excel in other positions, such as libero or setter. These positions require quick reflexes, good passing skills, and strategic thinking.
What Should I Play in High School?
Playing Soccer in HS
You should consider playing soccer in high school if you…
- Have already been playing
- Enjoy the physicality of the sport
- Have a combination of speed, quickness, and good endurance
- Enjoy playing an outdoor sport
- Enjoy playing a team sport
Playing Volleyball in HS
On the other hand, you should consider playing volleyball in high school if you…
- Have great hand-eye coordination
- Enjoy jumping and hitting the ball (rather than kicking it)
- Enjoy a contactless sport
- Would rather be playing inside
- Are taller and want to use it to your advantage
- Enjoy playing a team sport
Use this as a guide, don’t let it be your determining factor. The decision ultimately comes down to the individual.
Final Thoughts
The decision to play soccer or volleyball in high school should be based on your personal interests and abilities.
As mentioned above, both sports offer unique benefits and challenges, and both can be a great way to stay fit, make new friends, and develop important life skills.
Consider trying out both sports to see which one you enjoy more, and don’t be afraid to step out of your comfort zone and try something new!
