ESPN Kids Writer Mailbag 18 By ESPN Kids Writer

Q: In soccer, what are the responsibilities of the fullback? Monica from Pennsylvania
A: Hi Monica, this is a good question. A fullback is largely a defensive player on the soccer field. One of her main roles is to stop the other team from setting up good scoring chances by breaking up passes and not letting opposing players get open. Fullbacks can also be used to build an offensive attack. If the fullback steals the ball from an opposing forward, she can pass it up to a halfback or forward to help her team score.

Q: What does it mean when an athlete turns pro? Seth from New York
A: Seth, this means that an athlete starts getting paid to play sports. A player turns pro when he or she is drafted into a professional league, like the NFL or WNBA, or when an athlete signs a contract with any professional team.

Q: Is it really hard to be a quarterback? Brian from Michigan
A: Brian, quarterback is one of the toughest positions on the field. Not only do quarterbacks have to be good athletes, they also have to be very smart. They have to know every play and they have to be able to predict what the defense is going to do. Since quarterbacks are involved in just about every play, they have to know what every other player on the team is doing.

Q: What is your favorite winter sport? Taylor from Missouri
A: Taylor, my favorite winter sport is skiing. I love the outdoors in the winter, and think that downhill and cross-country skiing are excellent workouts. There's nothing better on a cold winter day than gliding down the mountain on a coat of fresh snow, feeling the wind on your face under a blue sky.

Q: When does the World Cup start? Kelly from New Mexico
A: Kelly, like most sports fans, I'm so excited for the start of the World Cup! The first games will take place on Friday, June 11, 2010. The tournament will last for a month, with the championship game on Sunday, July 11. That's a full month of one of the most thrilling sporting events in the world!

Q: Who is the best running back in the NFL? John from Texas
A: John, this is a tough question because there are many talented players in the league. However, I think the best running back is Adrian Peterson of the Minnesota Vikings. He has scored eight touchdowns, tied for the league lead, and is second in rushing yards with 687. Most importantly, with Peterson's help, the Vikings are 6-1 and in first place in the NFC North Division.

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