Quiz the Coach - Football Cleats

So ya dig sports but need some help with your game? Don't understand some of the rules of football, basketball or hockey? Got a gripe about P.E. class, skateboarders, cheerleading, coaches, or anything? Why not Quiz the Coach?

Hey Coach,
I've decided that I want to play football this year. My coach says it's okay and he'll supply me with full gear, except cleats. I plan on playing as a lineman or center. What kind of cleats should I be getting?
devilfornj88

Hey devilfornj88,
A lineman or center in football makes a lot of quick movements from side to side during the course of a game, which puts pressure on the ankles. You should have a high-top cleat that extends above your ankle to provide extra support for the those frequent lateral movements. Those players who play "skill positions" like quarterback, running back or wide receivers are better off wearing a mid-cut cleat that still provides strong ankle protection but is easier to move around in.

When picking your cleats, you should also consider whether to get molded or detacheable cleats.

Molded cleats are permanently attached to the bottom of the shoe and tend to be less expensive. Molded rubber cleats also give you a bit more spring and traction and are better for playing on a harder turf surface.

Detachable cleats use studs that can be removed and replaced to fit field conditions on all types of grass - hard and dry or wet and mucky. If you're going to be playing most of your games on a grass field, you're better off going with detacheable cleats. Use shorter studs for a hard, dry surface and the longer studs when you're playing on a wet and sloppy field. Good luck and enjoy the football season!

Do you need tips or advice on sports, fitness or health? Send it to the Kidzworld Coach. Keep in mind peeps, the Kidzworld Coach isn't a doctor or a professional athlete or anything like that. He's just a dude who digs sports, plays 'em and knows a lot about 'em. You should always talk to your 'rents, a doctor or your school gym teacher before starting a new sport or a new exercise.

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