In soccer, the way the ball bounces has a significant effect on your playing style. Balls that are too bouncy or too flat are difficult to play with. For this reason, most leagues require referees to check the game ball to ensure it is properly inflated and meets minimum standards.
Function
When you drop a soccer ball, gravity pulls it to the ground. On contact, the soccer ball deforms and flattens. Inside the soccer ball, the air molecules squeeze closer together while the outside of the ball deforms. Then they quickly spring back and push against the inside of the soccer ball, causing it to expand outward and spring off the ground.
Considerations
For a soccer ball to bounce effectively, you must inflate it properly. If too little air pressure exists, the ball will deform but won't spring back into shape. The material used to construct the ball is also important. The more rigid it is, the more difficult it is to get the ball to deform, and the less bouncy it will be. That's why soccer ball manufacturers choose materials carefully and construct each ball according to strict standards to ensure that all their products bounce effectively.
Inflation
If your soccer ball seems to have an improper bounce, use a ball pump to add or subtract air. Near the air hole on the soccer ball, there should be a small label that indicates how many pounds per square inch of air the ball requires for optimal performance. If not, call the manufacturer to find out the proper inflation for your particular model. Fill the ball to the recommended level. Over the next few days, check it occasionally to ensure the air pressure stays even. If it drops significantly, your ball may have a leak.
Expert Insight
During your practices, it's important to use the same type of ball that you will typically use during a game. Check with your league to see whether it offers specific recommendations for the type and size of ball you should use. Professional leagues often have deals with sports product manufacturers, so if you want to use a ball that's similar to the ones professionals use, check the packaging for the league's official seal of approval.
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