Even couch potatoes can partake in the thrill of soccer when it's televised. The 2011 Women's World Cup between Japan and the U.S. were broadcast nationwide with the help of an American National Standard (ANS) developed by the Society for Cable Telecommunication Engineers (SCTE). ANSI/SCTE 07 2006, Digital Transmission Standard for Cable Television, describes the framing structure, channel coding, and channel modulation for a digital multi-service television distribution system that is specific to a cable channel. SCTE is a member and accredited standards developer of the American National Standards Institute (ANSI).
The more active among us may be inspired to go play soccer themselves. One standard developed by ASTM International, an ANSI member and audited designator, assures the safety of players -- and goalies in particular. ASTM F2056-09, Standard Safety and Performance for Soccer Goals, focuses on providing safer use of soccer goals and reducing injuries and fatalities for both indoor and outdoor facilities.
Children are free to play soccer all day long in the summer, but many adults on nine-to-five schedules join evening leagues to fit their hours. Playing by the light of the moon isn't necessary, though, thanks to IESNA RP-6-01, Sports and Recreational Lighting. Developed by ANSI member and accredited standards developer the Illuminating Engineering Society (IES), this standard provides design criteria for new lighting systems and for the evaluation of existing lighting systems in sports arenas.
So lace up your cleats and strap on those shin guards - standards are there to enhance the soccer experience!