The importance of soccer literacy in the education and socialization of adolescents - Czech and Polish cases

This study aims to (1) identify trends and differences between boys and girls, concerning their preference for soccer; (2) determine the associations between preferring soccer, practicing soccer, and fulfiling physical activity recommendations; (3) and support a more effective acquisition of soccer literacy in the Czech Republic and Poland. The results show that soccer is the most preferred team sport for 32.9% of Czech boys versus 7.5% of Czech girls, while 46.7% of Polish boys preferred it, as compared to 7.7% of Polish girls. Overall, boys and girls who prefer soccer have a greater chance of fulfiling physical activity recommendations. Differences in preference and participation illustrate the importance of creating conditions for boys and girls to participate in soccer, futsal, futnet, and beach soccer. Soccer literacy may significantly support the acquisition of physical, health, and social literacy.