We now have the new Diamond Flat Marker Discs at The Soccer Store
These discs have been introduced specifically for indoor use. They are made from rubber and have a non slip surface. This is a safety feature that ensures the discs do not slip from under the foot during training sessions. They are available in set sets of 10, either multi coloured or all white. They sell at £10 per set.

The S1 Sport Shin Pads are now in stock at The Soccer Store.
The revolutionary shin guards and ankle protection are the must have this season. The shin pads have a separate under section and guard system to ensure maximum comfort and protection. The lightweight system eliminates the need for sock tape eliminating the risk reduced circulation. The breathable under section ensures that the pad does not come into contact with the skin keeping the leg dry and rash free.
The ankle guards have a rigid insert and dual achilles strips for maximum protection. The ankle guards are made from a soft neoprene and like the shin guard under section are machine washable.

When speaking to customers the subject of ball care sometimes arises, with the most common query regarding inflating the balls.
When inflating the footballs care should be taken when inserting the inflation needle into the ball to prevent damage to the valve. Mitre Glycerine should be used to allow the needle to be inserted smoothly. This is particularly important when the ball is first inflated as the wall of the bladder can be damaged at this stage.
The amount of pressure in a ball will affect its performance and durability. The recommended pressure is printed on the ball and should be checked regularly using a ball pressure gauge
A range of match and training balls are available from our Mitre Footballs section at The Soccer Store.

FIFA president Sepp Blatter has voiced concern over wealthy foreign business men investing in English Premier League football clubs. He has tasked Uefa president Michel Platini with enforcing tighter licensing rules on perspective club owners.
Nine English Premier League Football clubs are currently under foreign ownership.
His concerns are that the owner’s don’t always have the clubs best interest at heart and could walk away at any time without any a care, especially in current economic climate. Clubs with the for sale sign up need better protection.
“We must ask ourselves about what motivates these owners and are they really interested in the game or just making money”

So many times at youth football games you see a coach who is totally out of control. They want to win at all costs. They verbally abuse players on the pitch and do not allow lesser players a chance.
The win at all costs coach is equally as damaging to youth football as the disorganised coach who is not experienced in the game but who is a nice guy.
The coach should be able to teach the young footballer the basic skills in a safe environment. He should be technically aware, organised and confident. The coaching sessions should be fun and varied and leaving the participants wanting to return for more.
The coach should be able to pick the team up after a defeat whilst pointing out one or two learning and development points from the game. It is no use lambasting your team after a game of football just because they have underperformed. This will only make them turn their backs on football, be constructive.
A good coach does not assign player to set positions. A good coach encourages his strongest players and builds confidence in his lesser player.
A good coach knows that in youth football winning is a result of good coaching.