Soccer lessons cost $40 to $100 per lesson for private 1-on-1 soccer lessons. Private coaches charge higher rates if they are in-demand with a full client roster. Coaches with college degrees, years of experience, and former college or professional soccer players also charge higher rates for their training services.

A more affordable option for private soccer lessons are small group lessons which offer the same benefits but cost less. A private coach charges $35 to $65 per student, per lesson to work with a group of 2 to 5 students at the same time. The students are grouped by skill level and get the added benefit of practicing together.

Other options for soccer lessons include subscribing to free or low-cost online video soccer lessons, digital soccer training online, or training on your own with an app-enabled smart soccer training ball.

Most private lessons last an hour, but some coaches offer longer lessons for older students wanting to work on more specialized skills. Coaches sometimes offer shorter 30-minute lessons for the youngest students since they don't always have the attention span for a full hour lesson. Individual lessons for goalkeepers can last from 30 minutes to more than an hour for the specialized training.

Most people will agree that private soccer lessons are worth the price not only to improve your game, but also to improve your confidence. Soccer lessons help condition your body and teach you the fundamental skills you need to play, while imparting important life skills like teamwork, perseverance, and decision making.

It's important to add that soccer lessons can be costly, and having a good coach makes all the difference. A good coach can teach the right skills and inspire their students to work hard and improve. A bad coach who yells and tears down their players can actually do more to harm your game and even lead you to hate the sport.

There are 5 fundamental skill drills that should be taught in every soccer lesson, regardless of the age or skill level of the player, including:

• First touch trapping balls on the ground (and in the air for more advanced players)
• Short passing with both feet (5 to 10 yards)
• Striking or kicking drills
• Dribbling drills using different parts of the feet
• 1 and 2 touch passing drills

For more advanced players, body conditioning, footwork, and specialized training for goalkeepers are added to the lessons.

Most coaches agree that learning the basics of soccer at a young age is better than waiting. Toddlers as young as 3 years old can start taking soccer lessons, as long as they show an interest and can follow directions. It is also important that they have the coordination and gross motor skills to run and kick a ball. Good communication skills, like being able to listen and speak clearly can also make a difference.

First, gauge your child's interest and ability by getting them a ball and taking them outside in the yard or park to play together. If your child shows interest in the sport and wants to learn more, then consider a summer soccer camp, local kids league, or group lessons to get them playing with other kids.

Before you spend money hiring a soccer instructor, be sure you are selecting one that fits your needs by asking these important questions:

• What is your soccer background, did you play in college or professionally?
• How long have you been coaching soccer?
• What age groups do you teach?
• How many students are you currently working with?
• What is your hourly rate and schedule?
• Do you offer small group lessons? If so, do you group students with the same levels or ages?
• Do you have a package discount if I purchase multiple lessons in advance?
• Could you describe your coaching style?
• Will you customize the training to work on specific skills?

Hiring the right coach makes the investment in lessons worthwhile. Here are some suggestions to follow:

• Choose a trainer with several years of experience and a robust client roster.
• Select a coach with excellent online reviews.
• Look for private coaches or training camps that suit your budget and training schedule.
• Make sure the coach is a good role model, displaying a good attitude on and off the field.
• Visit a practice to watch the coach in action to see how they train and motivate their students.
• Request references with contact information for current and past clients.