I RAISE 10s, NOT 9s

Each position in soccer is traditionally assigned a number between 1 and 11. The lower numbers are reserved for "defensive" players. The middle numbers are for "midfielders," and the higher numbers are for "offensive" players.

The number 9 is assigned to the striker, or main forward on the team. This is often a tall, strong player with relatively limited dribbling or passing ability. Traditionally, the 9 is the main goal scorer, and 9s play the farthest up the pitch. In many teams, the 9 is the player who is the central focus, to whom the other players provide "service" - play that supports the 9's success. If scoring goals is your thing, you probably want to be a 9.

Another prominent position on many teams is the 10, or so-called "false 9." This is the preferred attacking player for team's like Barcelona and the Spanish National Team that do not play with a traditional striker, or 9. Leo Messi is the 10 at the former, and he is the best player at this position in the world.

Unlike a 9, a 10 is much more versatile, and height and strength are dispensable for this position. Tens are very engaged in the build-up of play. They are great dribblers,  and they often drop into midfield to make decisive passes. Tens can often be prolific scorers but doing so requires quite a bit of work. This is because a 10 sits back farther in midfield unlike a 9 who often sits far up the pitch awaiting for service.

Nicholas and Cate, especially, score plenty of goals on their soccer teams. Parents and coaches often comment on this to me. However, parents and coaches are even more astounded by Cate's and Nicholas' ability to seamlessly take on the role of defender, midfielder, and attacker during the course of a game. Their pinpoint passes, called "dagger balls," often leaving coaches and opposing teams, alike, dumbfounded. They truly can do it all when they are at the best.

You see, in this house, we do not settle for 9s. We make perfect 10s!