When was soccer made a professional sport?

Answer 1

It was in England that professional soccer was made legal, and teams began forming (or were already formed and turned pro). The year was 1885 and the month was July. Association football was an amateur sport for some time. But some football (soccer) teams had begun hiring players with exceptional skills, and there was strong debate over the "pay for play" approach. The desire to have professional players and clubs was a business decision, and it was agreed at a conference that players could be paid and could play legally. A link can be found below to check facts and learn more.

Answer 2

The last change I remember to the game was in the early 90s when back-passes to goalkeepers was disallowed. The pass itself is allowed but the goalkeeper must control the ball with his feet and can no longer use his hands when receiving a pass from a teammate, with 2 exceptions: 1. the pass comes from the teammate's head or 2. the pass is from a throw-in. Additionally at that time, the goalkeeper was given a time limit for possession of the ball in his hands which was originally non existent but now the limit is 6 seconds.

I hope I answered your question. If I have not, please be more specific about the rule change you are referencing.

Cheers,

J.P.

Answer 3

The first set of rules for soccer were made by the London Football Association in 1863.

Answer 4

early, mid 1800's