Why does soccer have 2 names?

• Jul, 22 2023
• 0

The Origins of the Names

As a soccer enthusiast, I've always wondered why soccer has two names: soccer and football. The answer lies in the history of the sport. The game we now know as soccer was originally named 'Association Football' in England in the 19th century. The term 'soccer' was then derived from the term 'association' as a slang term that was popular in British universities. It was shortened to 'assoc' and then became 'soccer'. So, essentially, soccer and football are the same thing, they're just called different names depending on where you're from.

Soccer Vs Football: The American Perspective

So why do Americans call it soccer? That's a question I get a lot. Well, when the sport was introduced to America, they already had a sport named football, which is a completely different game. To avoid confusion, Americans started referring to 'Association Football' as 'Soccer'. Over time, this term became more widely accepted and is now the standard name for the sport in the United States.

The Global Use of The Term 'Football'

Outside of the United States, the game is commonly referred to as 'football'. This is the case in countries such as England, Spain, Italy, Germany, and many others. These countries have a long-standing tradition of calling the sport 'football', and this tradition continues to this day. In these countries, if you were to say 'soccer', people might not even know what you're referring to!

Controversies Surrounding the Two Names

Like any topic with two sides, the use of the words 'soccer' and 'football' has caused quite a bit of controversy. Some people believe that the term 'soccer' is an Americanism and that the sport should be called 'football' universally. Others argue that since the term 'soccer' originated from England, it's just as valid as 'football'. This debate is ongoing and, while it might seem trivial to some, to soccer (or football) fans, it's a matter of pride and tradition.

Implications on International Sports Events

When it comes to international sports events, the naming issue can cause some confusion. For instance, in the World Cup, the sport is referred to as 'football', adhering to the international standard. However, in the United States, media outlets often use the term 'soccer' when reporting on these events. This can be confusing for viewers who aren't familiar with the terminology differences.

Conclusion: Unity in Diversity

In conclusion, the two names for the sport we love stem from the diverse history and cultural differences of the countries that play it. Whether you call it 'soccer' or 'football', it's the same beautiful game that brings people together all around the world. So, the next time someone asks you why soccer has two names, you now have the answer. And remember, no matter what you call it, the love for the game is universal.