Soccer

by Simon Kuper (Author)

Soccer is much more than just the most popular game in the world. It is a matter of life and death for millions around the world, an international lingua franca. Simon Kuper traveled to twenty-two countries to discover the sometimes bizarre effect soccer can have on politics and culture. At the same time he tried to discover what makes different countries play a simple game so differently. Kuper meets a remarkable variety of fans along the way, from the East Berliner persecuted by the Stasi for supporting his local team, to the Argentine general with his own views on tactics. He also illuminates the frightening intersection between soccer and politics, particularly in the wake of the attacks of 9-11, where soccer is obsessed over by the likes of Osama bin Laden. The result is one of the world's most acclaimed books on the game, and an astonishing study of soccer and its place in the world.

Author Biography

Simon Kuper is one of the world's leading writers on soccer. The winner of the William Hill Prize for sports book of the year in Britain, Kuper writes a weekly column for the Financial Times. He lives in Paris, France.

by Wayne Harrison (Author)

With this 94 page Book, we are taking the Soccer Awareness thinking process to the next level by identifying what is relevant at each age group. That said, you the coach, will decide perhaps a 9 year old team can cope with the 11 year old sessions and perhaps a 12 year old lower level team will need to use younger age group session plans. We hope you enjoy these sessions and as always our Soccer Awareness training material is simple to understand, user friendly and we try to offer a great attention to detail. Table of Contents 6 TO 9 YEARS OLD AWARENESS DEVELOPMENT TRAINING Clinic 1: Objective: Improving Basic Dribbling And Awareness With Lots Of Touches In Possession Of The Ball Clinic 2: Awareness Concept Introduction On The Ball With Few Touches; Using A One And Two Touch Maximum (Example) Clinic 3: Objective: Encouraging Dribbling And Turning Through Quick Transition Play Clinic 4: Objective: A Fun Awareness Possession Game For Improving Peripheral Vision 10 TO 11 YEARS OLD AWARENESS DEVELOPMENT TRAINING Clinic 5: Objective: Testing Players Awareness Clinic 6: Objective: Teaching Awareness In Three's Or Fours Developing Movements Off The Ball To Receive Clinic 7: Objective: Improving Awareness Of Spacing And Movement "Off" The Ball Clinic 8: Objective: Development Of Awareness And Of Movement "Off" The Ball 12 TO 13 YEARS OLD AWARENESS DEVELOPMENT TRAINING Clinic 9: Specific Peripheral Vision Coaching Sessions Clinic 10: Receiving, Turning And Angled Passing Developing Awareness On And Off The Ball Clinic 11: Objective: Switching Play As A Team Clinic 12: Objective: Improving One And Two Touch Play Using The Awareness Three Team Game Focusing On Quick Thinking, Quick And Early Foot Positioning; Support And Finishing Clinic 13: Objective: Pressurizing Game Working On Attacking Transitions Clinic 14: Objective: Developing The Players Ability To Switch The Play, Be Aware Of Teammates And Opponents Positioning; Before Receiving; And Then Changing The Point Of Attack Clinic 15: Using A Non - Competitive Numbers "Game" With Teams Passing In Sequence To Improve Awareness On And Off The Ball (Part One) Clinic 16: Using A Non - Competitive Numbers "Game" With Teams Passing In Sequence To Improve Awareness On And Off The Ball (Part Two) Clinic 17: Objective: A Transition Clinic Developing The Players Ability To Recognize The Immediate Changes From Defense To Attack And Attack To Defense And To Act On It Quickly Clinic 18: Changing The Point Of Attack Through The Directional Four Goal Switching Play Game 14 TO 18 YEARS OLD AWARENESS DEVELOPMENT TRAINING Clinic 19: Objective: Quick Transition Directional Play Target Game Developing Movement Off The Ball Clinic 20: Objective: Teaching Movement "Off The Ball" Through The Transition Directional Target Game Clinic 21: Directional Awareness Training (Part One) Clinic 22: Directional Awareness Training Game Situation (Part Two) Clinic 23: Objective: Development Of A Finishing Game Using Two Goals Increasing The Amount Of Decisions Able To Be Made Clinic 24: The Three Team Awareness One Touch Game

by Russ Focus (Author)

Soccer Activity Book For Kids Ages 4-8, Kids and Teens with Enjoy & Fun, Relaxing, Inspiration and challenge your kids.
Beautiful Design with Soccer Activity Book.
interior
Soccer Activity Book 70 Pages
- 42 Soccer Activity Pages
Design your team, Mazes, Coloring, Dot to dot, answer and more
If you are looking for Soccer Activity Books.
This book is very perfect for you.
-RUSS FOCUS-

by Rosana Barbosa (Author)

This book aims to use soccer as a tool to understand key elements of Brazil's history from the overthrow of the Monarchy in 1889 to the 1930 Revolution that brought Getulio Vargas to power - the so-called First Republic.

Author Biography

Rosana Barbosa is a professor in the history department at Saint Mary's University, in Halifax, Nova Scotia, Canada.

by Kelsi Bracmort (Author), Takeia Marie (Illustrator)

"Inspiration and practical advice wrapped up in an appealing story with a relatable young hero." - Kirkus Reviews

Simone Joins the Soccer Team is a beautifully illustrated children's book that will show young readers the importance of making decisions. Join Simone as she thinks about playing soccer at school.

Simone is an inquisitive and thoughtful young, black girl who lives in Washington D.C. Her mission is to discover who she is, what makes her unique, and to be proud of herself. Together with Shiloh, her cousin, they have lots of fun.

In this award-winning second book, Simone has to decide if she will try out for her school's soccer team. As she considers the possibility of playing soccer, she receives advice from family and friends. In the end, Simone learns to listen to her heart and discovers what it means to know what you want and to make up your own mind.

Thoughtful and genuine, Simone Joins the Soccer Team showcases the importance of listening, making decisions, and following your heart. In the award-winning first book, Simone Visits the Museum, she and her mom take the day to explore DC and go to the Smithsonian NMAAHC. Check it out!

Available also in Spanish, Simone se une al equipo de fútbol, it is the perfect book for bilingual children who can practice reading the series in both languages. The series also supports the authentic cultural representation movement.

More about Simone Joins the Soccer Team:

- 2022 International AAHGS Best Children's Book Award winner

Order your copy TODAY and enjoy the second book in the series that is sure to become a bedtime favorite!

by Tanya Preminger (Author), Elettra Cudignotto (Illustrator)

⚽ Sean, an eight-year-old aspiring soccer player, goes on the trip of a lifetime! He travels to Barcelona, Spain, to watch a FC Barcelona soccer game and get an autograph from his hero, the celebrated forward Lionel Messi.

The resourceful and determined kid that he is, Sean comes up with various creative ways to track down his hero and make his dream come true. But sometimes, as he will discover, life doesn't go quite according to plan...

Beautiful illustrations by Elettra Cudignotto.

Book quote: "A goal without a plan is just a wish."- Antoine de Saint-Exupéry

This chapter book is a part of a series, but it easily functions as a stand-alone book.

It is suitable for kids ages 6-10 (reading level 3, 1st through 4th grade).

Ideal for early readers or to be read aloud by a parent as a bedtime story.

Sean Wants To Be Messi book series:

1. Sean Wants To Be Messi

2. Sean Goes To Barcelona

3. Sean Tackles London

by Chest Dugger (Author)

Are you stuck at home or unable to get access to a soccer field? Are you worried about a lack of practice and reduced fitness?

This book is your answer.

Whether it's a pandemic caused by an extremely infectious pathogen or a harsh winter that causes 10 feet of snow to pile up on the soccer field, there are times when soccer takes a back foot. As we have discovered, soccer isn't more important than life or death, despite the claims to the contrary.

So many coaching books require complex equipment, copious resources and fantastic facilities. In writing 'Practice Soccer at Home', we are seeking to offer a guide for those times when we train alone, in our back yard, with little more than a ball and our immediate environment. Undertaking this additional work is important whether we are professionals seeking to perfect our technique at the highest level (why else would top professionals build home gyms into their luxurious houses?) or, more relevantly for this book, keen amateurs or youth players looking to develop our own game.

With jobs to hold down, school to attend and such like, it is unlikely that, in the best of times, we will get more than two formal training sessions per week, plus a match at the weekend. Realistically, it is likely to be just one session. In order to maximise our potential, we must do some work on our skills and endurance alone. The most practical place for many of us is to undertake this training at home. Why get in the car to drive to the gym or park if we have a back yard we could use instead? The answer is, of course, what to do in the back yard, and what to do it with! This book provides some answers to those questions.

by Gilson Marcon De Souza (Author)

A collection of Portuguese to English idioms, expressions, slangs - plus a special appendix with a soccer-related glossary. Uma coleção de expressões idiomáticas, gírias e termos em Português - Inglês - mais um glossário especial de termos relacionados ao futebol.

by Roy Brandon (Author)

The Life Story of Ronaldo

Fully illustrated children's book of the story of one of the best soccer player Cristiano Ronaldo who overcame all the challenges to become one of the best soccer players in history.

Beautiful graphic for hours of entertainment.

Learn the life of Ronaldo, and be inspired to be like him someday.

Get this book now and enjoy the rise to stardom of Ronaldo.

by Marcus Dibernardo (Author)

Professional Soccer Restarts" contains the best 15 corner kicks I have seen in my 20+ years of coaching. Each corner kick is accompanied by its own diagram that clearly maps out the play. Set plays often make the difference between winning and losing. Championships are often decided on restarts. Give your team the advantage they deserve. I have also included a game changing defensive counter attack when defending corner kicks.

by Dan Blank (Author)

"Must read for all college-bound student-athletes" Amazon Customer

by Chest Dugger (Author)

Are you stuck at home or unable to get access to a soccer field? Are you worried about a lack of practice and reduced fitness?

by Marcus Dibernardo (Author)

The 3-5-2 is a very dynamic and flexible system; it can be an ultra-attacking formation or solid defensive formation depending on how it is deployed. In attack the 3-5-2 is numerically strong in the midfield and comes with the benefit of two strikers. Creating width in the attack is never a problem with two wingers and strikers that could also run the channels. The formation is naturally set-up to encourage movement off the ball with the interchanging of positions when in possession; the interchanging of positions and movement off the ball allows different players the opportunity to fill different spaces, making the 3-5-2 more dynamic and difficult for the opponent to predict and deal with. In the modern game I personally find many advantages to playing the 3-5-2 formation, due to its fluid attacking potential and less focus on keeping numbers back. The defensive side of the 3-5-2 presents the formations biggest challenges, yet it can also be seen as a strength if the players understand how to form a back four or five in the correct situations. With only three defenders in the back, covering space in deep wide areas must be addressed and dealt with effectively. In order to offset the possible defensive weakness that come with three players not being able to cover the entire width of the field, the coach must choose player personnel and more importantly the formations tactics wisely. In this book I will cover multiple ways the 3-5-2 can be played to maximize its strengths, while turning the formations possible negatives into positives. When breaking down and analyzing any formation, it is important to note that the difference between formations is about 10 yards in player positioning. You can make an argument that most formations are similar and difficult to identify once the game has started. The transition from defending to attacking and attacking to defending creates totally new shapes from the original formation. The game of soccer is a free-flowing game but inside that flow there must be a structure which drives individual and team decisions. The coach is the one who will lay out the important tactical guidelines for the execution of the formation, so it is important to note that the same formation can be carried out in many different ways, depending on the coach. Tactics that will influence the way the formation played include things like setting a line of restraint, establishing a line of confrontation, identifying pressing zones, outlining counter-attacking areas, realizing when to press or drop-off, addressing the overall style of soccer to be played, player personnel, work load, location of the game, weather conditions, field conditions and much more. All these factors will directly influence the way a formation is played.

by Larry Edwards (Author)

Ronaldo has lived many dreams already, and his career is nowhere near finished. He has been one of the most inspiring soccer players of his generation, and goes down in the all-time list of the best soccer players ever. But what makes Cristiano Ronaldo so good? Why is he the example for any forward player? Easy and fun to read for kids. After reading this book, you will know all about Cristiano Ronaldo. You should be able to answer all the questions about him. You would know why there are such quotes about him: "There are some things Ronaldo can do with a football that make me touch my head and wonder how on earth he did it." -Portuguese star Luis Figo "Cristiano is quite a player." -Manchester United star Rio Ferdinand "Ronaldo may be the best player." -Czech Coach Karel Bruckner "When Ronaldo gets the ball, you can just leave him to it while he beats player after player." -Former teammate Ryan Giggs "He will be a world star in football like Michael Jordan was in basketball ... They have both been blessed with a genius that has never been seen before." -Portuguese National Coach Carlos Queiroz ...and so much more...

by Scholastic (Author), Eone (Illustrator)

Peppa and her friends play a lively game of soccer --but will both teams play fair?

Author Biography

Scholastic Inc. is a global publishing and education company whose mission is to encourage the intellectual and personal growth of all children, beginning with literacy.

by Cathleen Cotten (Editor), Randy Vogt (Author)

Preventive Officiating takes the concept of preventive medicine, preventing problems before they begin, and applies it to soccer officiating. This book is for any soccer referee looking to improve as well as soccer fans, players and coaches looking to learn and understand the rules.

Author Biography

Randy Vogt has officiated over 7,000 games during the past three decades, from professional matches in front of thousands to six-year-olds being cheered on by very enthusiastic parents. Randy has received many officiating awards, has been invited to referee tournaments around the world and refereed in a couple of the globe's great soccer stadiums. In Preventive Officiating: How a Referee Avoids Trouble on the Soccer Field, he shares his wisdom gleaned from thousands of games and hundreds of clinics to help referees not only survive but thrive on the soccer field.

by Agustín Peraita (Author), Ray Power (Foreword by)

The four seasons that Josep 'Pep' Guardiola spent in charge of the first team at FC Barcelona saw a period of extraordinary football supremacy delivered through tactical richness, ball retention, and player skill. Indeed, for many, the Barça side of 2009-2010 is held up as one of the great teams of modern football: a team that played a possession-based game which bamboozled opponents and delighted soccer lovers around the world. Every few months you could observe the team reinventing itself on the blackboard and on the field, constantly striving to improve and dominate the opposition further.

Written by Agustín Peraita, FCBEscola Project Director at Sao Paulo FC Barcelona, this book is for soccer coaches looking to understand and implement Pep Guardiola's tactical approach and coaching methodology for that 2009-2010 Barça side. Containing more than 50 illustrations, detailing on-field drills, Principles/Subprinciples/Sub-SubPrinciples, tactical diagrams and weekly planning schedules, this practical and to-the-point book focuses explicitly on the preseason period as it lays the foundation for how a team will train, play, and perform over the season. Indeed, regular season training is simply a continuation of everything a team learns and implements during this phase, based on the playing schedule and other resources at a coach's disposal. The playing philosophy, model of play, associated drills, and weekly training schedule are implemented from day one that the squad assembles.

"Play Like Pep Guardiola's Barcelona: A Soccer Coach's Guide" provides a theoretical base alongside practical guidance for coaches (even if they do not have elite players such as Lionel Messi, Xavi, and Andrés Iniesta) to develop the 'play' that Guardiola developed during his second season at Barça. Incorporating detailed discussion of the Model of Play, Tactical Periodization, the four phases of the game, positional play, and more, a methodological framework is presented that can be used to train almost any proficient football team whether amateur, semi-professional or professional.

The book's foreword is by Ray Power, the author of the acclaimed football coaching books Making The Ball Roll: A Complete Guide to Youth Football for the Aspiring Soccer Coach, Soccer Tactics 2014: What The World Cup Taught Us, and The Deliberate Soccer Practice books.

Important Note: "Play Like Pep Guardiola's Barcelona: A Soccer Coach's Guide" is the English translation of "Quiero que mi equipo juegue como el F.C.Barcelona de Guardiola (Preparacion Futbolistica)" - the acclaimed Spanish book from 2015. In an effort to remain true to the original version, the English version retains the source book's depth and complexity and some of its terminology which can, at times, make it a challenging read; a certain level of effort and concentration from the reader will be rewarded however. In turn, to get the very most from the book, readers should have a solid grasp of modern football coaching principles. The book provides a rewarding and high value resource for the contemporary soccer coach who wishes to play like Pep Guardiola's Barcelona.

by Andres Varela (Author), Carlos Felipe Gonzalez (Illustrator), German Hernandez (Co-Producer)

SoccerTowns is the story of a group of friends who travel and learn about the towns where soccer is played around the world. It starts in the United States and Canada and in the future it will go to many other places. We hope kids around the world enjoy it! This is the tenth book of the series, check out www.soccertowns.com for more up to date information on new releases!.

by Marcus a. Dibernardo (Author)

Maybe you are asking what exactly is a passing pattern and how will it make my team better? Passing patterns are designed patterns which players execute in a pre-set order. The patterns can range from very simple to very complex. The 20 Professional Soccer patterns in the book can be adjusted to fit many levels. These are the same patterns that FC Barcelona and Bayern Munich FC use in training. The most important thing to remember when training passing patterns is "The Secret Is In The Details". What I mean by details is as follows; firmness of the pass, proper timing and movement of the receiving player, proper body position of the player receiving the ball, proper technique of the passer and receiver, eye contact with receiver before passing the ball, using correct passing and receiving surface, establishing a rhythm of play with teammates, executing the drill at a challenging level and always remaining focused. If you want your team to improve their passing ability then this is the book for you. Pay attention to the details, make sure the patterns are trained under the deliberate practice guidelines and keep it fun.

Author Biography

Marcus DiBernardo has been coaching the game of soccer for over 20 years. He has experience in both the Men's and Women's game at many different levels. Coach DiBernardo's desire to coach came early on. His first coaching would come at the age of just eighteen at his local soccer club. In the years to come Coach DiBernardo would lead numerous teams to many titles across the country. In 2011 he would be named "National College Coach of The Year". Currently, Coach DiBernardo is the Founder and Director of an International Soccer Academy as well as being a Head Men's College Soccer Coach. Coach DiBernardo possesses a coaching style that is very much player oriented. There is always a high level of mutual respect between himself and his players. Being a part of his program is like being part of a family that wants the best for you. As a player he was known for his commitment and work ethic as defender. He would play at the NCAA Division I level and later move on to play in the First Division of the CSL. In 1993 he would earn the CCSU College Scholar Athlete Award for soccer. Coach DiBernardo holds various soccer diplomas and licenses. He is also an acting member of the NSCAA Associate National Staff. Coach DiBernardo considers himself a lifetime learner and active student of the game. He feels the better he can become as a coach the better experience his players can have with him. The books Coach DiBernardo writes are packed with training ground ready material. The training drills and methods are the exact ones he uses on a daily basis. The books contain the most effective drills and training methods of his 20+ years coaching experience. He prides himself on the quality of information in each one his books.

by Andres Varela (Author), Carlos Felipe Gonzalez (Illustrator), German Hernandez (Co-Producer)

SoccerTowns is the story of a group of friends who travel and learn about the towns where soccer is played around the world. It starts in the United States and Canada and in the future it will go to many other places. We hope kids around the world enjoy it! This is the first book of the series, check out www.soccertowns.com for more up to date information on new releases!.

by Travis Norsen (Author)

In soccer, most goals are scored with your feet. But as Johan Cruyff noted, soccer is fundamentally "a game you play with your brain." Technical skills are essential tools, to be sure, but (like any tools) they are useless without a clear understanding of how, when, and why to apply them.

In Play with Your Brain, Travis Norsen helps you develop your soccer brain by providing a deep and detailed explanation of some of the game's basic principles. Aimed at intermediate-to-advanced youth soccer players and their coaches (as well as parents who want to understand the game more deeply), the book presents eight key soccer concepts in illuminating detail, showing what and how, but also clearly explaining why. Specific topics include the value of possession, the importance of horizontal and vertical spacing, why the direction you face is as important as where you are and where you're going, the nature and value of speed, pressuring with a purpose, and why defense - the science of generating turnovers - requires a coordinated team effort. The book contains more than fifty detailed diagrams illustrating these principles in various concrete applications, and is written in a style that is simultaneously accessible and lucid.

Whether you are a youth soccer player who wants to develop your game to the next level, a volunteer coach who needs a clear vision of where to lead your team, or a soccer parent who just wants to more clearly comprehend your kid's passion, this book will provide the systematic understanding you want and need.

by M. E. Levine (Author)

When Karma and her friends take on trouble in their suburban neighborhood, things quickly spin out of control. It starts when a speeding car hits a child, and the moms find (and punish) the culprit before the cops get a chance. Is this justice or vigilantism? Is there a difference? And what moms could stand by after a teenager flashes their young daughters on the playground? Not these moms. Between fighting crime and bickering with each other, the moms contend with over-the-top kid birthday parties, escaped boa constrictors, and the humiliation of being late for preschool pickup. Then an obnoxious neighbor turns out to be a wife-beater, and the moms go full-on vigilante. He has to be stopped. Suddenly their quiet neighborhood is overrun with satellite TV trucks and well-coiffed reporters. And it may turn out that the moms have been manipulated all along by someone even more clever and devious than themselves.

Author Biography

M. E. Levine has been an entrepreneur, political consultant, professional writer, college instructor, stay-at-home mom, census worker, and (briefly) an Amway distributor. She's the mom of two adopted kids, servant to five cats, a lousy housekeeper, a fairly good wife, and a voracious listener of audio books. Her secret desire is to invent time travel and go back to tell her younger self to brush her teeth better and lay off the cookies.

by Chest Dugger (Author)

Have you wondered how Pep Guardiola's teams have dominated European leagues for the last two decades?Not only is the answer simple; it's something that you can use to take your game and your team's game leagues above your opposition...

The key to Pep's success at Barcelona and Manchester City is the Rondo.

Rondos have transformed modern football. Not only have Rondos helped Pep dominate European football, they've helped turn the Spanish national team into the best in the world. The system behind Rondos was the beating heart of the brilliant Barcelona teams, which dominated Europe for a decade from 2005. They made soccer even more exciting to watch, improving players' technical ability and creating a proper, total football (in the European sense) game. Their approach was reminiscent of the fantastic Ajax team of the 1970s and the great Dutch teams of that era. They led to the excitement of the high press and the thrilling soccer, which follows when the press is defeated.

They proved the benefit of technique over physical prowess.

So, what is this miracle of the training pitch which has so transformed the game of soccer? The beauty of the rondo is its simplicity. It is a drill where the objective is to retain possession. As rondo drills become more complex, this aim might develop. It might be about keeping possession in transition or maintaining possession to create a goal-scoring opportunity. However, at its heart is the objective of one side keeping hold of the ball.

A second key element of a rondo is that the sides are uneven. One team has extra players. It can take a form as exaggerated as 10 v 1, or as close as 5 v 4. However, the point is that some pressure is applied, but not so much as to make the drill difficult to perfect. Thus, confidence grows, and in turn, touch and vision.

A rondo is usually a drill that takes place in a limited space; typically a circle, square or rectangular grid. Thus first and second touches are perfected because there is not much time to take many touches.

Finally, and crucially, rondos are drills that are fast and fun. They involve lots of touches for the players in possession and a real sense of achievement on the rare occasions that the smaller side actually wins back the ball.

So simple. Yet so effective.

This coaching book celebrates the rondo and offers drills, tactics, and coaching techniques to help soccer players at any level, from the unbounded enthusiasm of Under 6s to the worldly view of veteran teams. From the pub side who turn out on a Sunday morning, cooked breakfast weighing heavily on their hangover-infused stomachs to the champion youth team of the region.

We can all improve as coaches and players. The rondo is the system that enables progress to happen more quickly and efficiently than any other soccer coaching strategy.

Even if you haven't heard of Rondos before, you'll gain a lot from this book.

Order Now...

by Travis Norsen (Author)

In soccer, most goals are scored with your feet. But as Johan Cruyff noted, soccer is fundamentally "a game you play with your brain." Technical skills are essential tools, to be sure, but (like any tools) they are useless without a clear understanding of how, when, and why to apply them.

In Play with Your Brain, Travis Norsen helps you develop your soccer brain by providing a deep and detailed explanation of some of the game's basic principles. Aimed at intermediate-to-advanced youth soccer players and their coaches (as well as parents who want to understand the game more deeply), the book presents eight key soccer concepts in illuminating detail, showing what and how, but also clearly explaining why. Specific topics include the value of possession, the importance of horizontal and vertical spacing, why the direction you face is as important as where you are and where you're going, the nature and value of speed, pressuring with a purpose, and why defense - the science of generating turnovers - requires a coordinated team effort. The book contains more than fifty detailed diagrams illustrating these principles in various concrete applications, and is written in a style that is simultaneously accessible and lucid.

Whether you are a youth soccer player who wants to develop your game to the next level, a volunteer coach who needs a clear vision of where to lead your team, or a soccer parent who just wants to more clearly comprehend your kid's passion, this book will provide the systematic understanding you want and need.

by Jay Gravatte (Author), Nolan Cook (Foreword by), Nathan Gardner (Photographer)

The cafeteria at Elizabethtown High School was perfect for my first rules clinic as a head coach. I had arrived early and took the opportunity to draw up some practice plans for the upcoming week. An older gentleman came into the cafeteria and began setting up. It was clear he would be presenting. He had made eye contact with me before gently walking over to me. I couldn't wait to introduce myself as the head boys soccer coat at Warren East High School for the first time. That had to be what he was making an overture towards me for . . . right? "Do you have somewhere else that you can do your homework?" was what the old man wanted to know. Yeah, I was 21, clean shaven, and going to be the youngest coach in the room for probably the next couple of years. I mean, I still got to introduce myself as a head coach but only so I didn't get kicked out o fthe meeting before it even began. For some reason I was surprised by the question. So begins the coaching career of Jay Gravatte. He's a man who grew up sure that he was going to play professional soccer until his senior year in high school when he decided he was going to be a high school soccer coach. Coach Gravatte is on the list of the All Time Winningest Coaches in Kentucky's KHSAA history with a record of 102 wins, 5 District Championships in 2 different regions and 3 Regional Final Appearances.

by Chest Dugger (Author)

Have you wondered how Pep Guardiola's teams have dominated European leagues for the last two decades?Not only is the answer simple; it's something that you can use to take your game and your team's game leagues above your opposition...

The key to Pep's success at Barcelona and Manchester City is the Rondo.

Rondos have transformed modern football. Not only have Rondos helped Pep dominate European football, they've helped turn the Spanish national team into the best in the world. The system behind Rondos was the beating heart of the brilliant Barcelona teams, which dominated Europe for a decade from 2005. They made soccer even more exciting to watch, improving players' technical ability and creating a proper, total football (in the European sense) game. Their approach was reminiscent of the fantastic Ajax team of the 1970s and the great Dutch teams of that era. They led to the excitement of the high press and the thrilling soccer, which follows when the press is defeated.

They proved the benefit of technique over physical prowess.

So, what is this miracle of the training pitch which has so transformed the game of soccer? The beauty of the rondo is its simplicity. It is a drill where the objective is to retain possession. As rondo drills become more complex, this aim might develop. It might be about keeping possession in transition or maintaining possession to create a goal-scoring opportunity. However, at its heart is the objective of one side keeping hold of the ball.

A second key element of a rondo is that the sides are uneven. One team has extra players. It can take a form as exaggerated as 10 v 1, or as close as 5 v 4. However, the point is that some pressure is applied, but not so much as to make the drill difficult to perfect. Thus, confidence grows, and in turn, touch and vision.

A rondo is usually a drill that takes place in a limited space; typically a circle, square or rectangular grid. Thus first and second touches are perfected because there is not much time to take many touches.

Finally, and crucially, rondos are drills that are fast and fun. They involve lots of touches for the players in possession and a real sense of achievement on the rare occasions that the smaller side actually wins back the ball.

So simple. Yet so effective.

This coaching book celebrates the rondo and offers drills, tactics, and coaching techniques to help soccer players at any level, from the unbounded enthusiasm of Under 6s to the worldly view of veteran teams. From the pub side who turn out on a Sunday morning, cooked breakfast weighing heavily on their hangover-infused stomachs to the champion youth team of the region.

We can all improve as coaches and players. The rondo is the system that enables progress to happen more quickly and efficiently than any other soccer coaching strategy.

Even if you haven't heard of Rondos before, you'll gain a lot from this book.

Order Now......

by Lou Roth (Author), Kathleen Hannisian (Editor), Tami Roth (Cover Design by)

What can soccer teach us about life?

A lot more than you might think. In Perspectives from the Pitch, Lou Roth highlights and unpacks the mystique of some of the most common coaching instructions shouted from the sidelines - like "Turn!" "Play to Feet!" and "Keep it Moving!" In each chapter he gives an easy-to-understand description of a common soccer prompt, and how theses simple commands hold powerful lessons for decision-making, resilience, and personal growth.

He points out that while technical skill is important, so is confidence, creativity, and the ability to be a team player. Lou makes the case that participating in soccer shapes who a young player becomes.

With relatable stories from the field, practical coaching insights, and inspiring life parallels, this book is an essential read for:

• • Parents who want to help kids grow on and off the field
  • Coaches looking to teach more than just the game
  • Players eager to understand how soccer builds character

Perspectives from the Pitch will give you insight you might not have considered. This book will change how you see the game.

by Deji Badiru (Author)

Following up on the success of Physics of Soccer, this second volume, Physics of Soccer II, represents a comprehensive amalgamation of the various on-and-off-field attributes needed to be an excellent soccer player. Deji Badiru, a professional engineer and former soccer player and coach, notes that no matter how talented a player you are, if you cant be on the field, you cant make a contribution. So, it is crucial that you get yourself prepared mentally and physically to be on the field. Based on his personal experiences with soccer, this newest guide draws on all aspects of science, technology, engineering, math, and even the arts and humanities to help readers: use their minds to gain an edge over opponents; make appropriate on-field decisions based on science and mathematics; assess the capabilities of teammates and opponents from a scientic viewpoint; and capitalize on the geometry of the eld of play and the respective locations and placements of other players. Badiru views the field of play as a system of people, objects, and the environment, whose respective behaviors are governed by the laws of science. Put those laws to work for you with the lessons in Physics of Soccer II.

Author Biography

Deji Badiru is an award-winning author, educator, researcher, and administratoras well as a former soccer player and coach and professional engineer. He earned a bachelor of science in industrial engineering, master of science in mathematics, and master of science in industrial engineering from Tennessee Technological University, a Ph.D. in industrial engineering from the University of Central Florida, and a leadership certificate from the University of Tennessee. He is also the author of Getting Things Done through Project Management and Physics of Soccer.

by Brenda Ponnay (Author), Brenda Ponnay (Illustrator)

We Can Readers: Raj Plays Soccer It's time for the big match! Raj shows off his hard-earned skills when he plays soccer. He runs, he kicks, he scores! In this very simple 8-page reader, short sentences are paired with fun illustrations featuring an Indian-American character to get kids reading about Raj and his can-do-it mindset. Sample Text: Raj plays soccer. He kicks the ball. This book is part of the We Can Readers series from Brenda Ponnay. This book in the We Can Readers series is Guided Reading Level A. We Can Readers are very short, feature diverse characters, and are suitable for kids just learning to read.

by Vasilis Papadakis (Author)

The pre-season is often the time that readies a soccer team for success. Get pre-season right and a team hits the ground running; they mesh as a unit, find their rhythm, and win matches. Get pre-season wrong, however - due to unfit, tactically unsure, or out-of-form players - and it can be very hard to turn things around.

Pre-season Soccer Training covers the key elements of pre-season training including fitness drills, tactics, team understanding, skill development, set pieces, and transitional play.

Using more than 165 illustrations, over 50 sessions, this book will help coaches of all levels to learn what a tested and effective pre-season can look like.

The book is based on the current know-how and coaching being taught in UEFA classrooms, and sessions can be tweaked based on the age and experiences of your players.

by Roy Brandon (Author)

"I m living a dream I never want to wake up from." - Cristiano Ronaldo

Cristiano Ronaldo is the modern-day icon. On an almost daily basis we see hear his name on the news, see his face on any number of TV commercials, and marvel at the magic show he puts on every weekend when he takes to the field. He is a celebrity whose image and influence affect our popular culture and a soccer star that has been compared with some of the world s best athletes.

But Cristiano was not always the popular, mega-celebrity, soccer superstar that he is today. The success that he enjoys has come from years of hard work and sacrifice that have helped him overcome many obstacles and difficulties in his path

In this book, we re going to take a look at the life of Cristiano, beginning at the time he was rising star whose career was threatened by a strange heart condition, right up until his third Ballon D or recognition. We will also follow Cristiano off of the field to see his impact on popular culture and his life beyond soccer.

by Alan Goldberg (Author)

With patience, a little hard work and consistent practice, you can train yourself to develop the mind of a champion. Mental toughness can be learned! You can do it! This book provides you with all the strategies you need to become a mentally tough soccer player. Remember, if you have a dream to go as far as possible in this sport, you have to train your mind as well as your body. Great soccer players do not leave the mental side of their performance to chance. This is why they always seem to come through regardless of the odds against them or the pressure of the moment. Start right now to train yourself to systematically think and act like a champion! Use this book as a tool. Mental training, like physical training, is an ongoing process. You have to continually work at all aspects of your game to establish and maintain the competitive advantage.

by Robbie Gordon (Author), Jack Nurse (Author)

No.1 - Players always come first
No.2 - We look to the future
No.3 - We never leave anyone behind
No.4 - We place others before ourselves
No.5 - We keep our promises

Author Biography

Robbie Gordon is one of the co-founders of Wonder Fools, a theatre company that creates contemporary new work based on a diverse range of current and historical real-life stories. Writing and producing credits include: McNeill of Tranent: Fastest Man in the World (2014-2015), The Coolidge Effect (2016-2020), and 549: Scots of the Spanish Civil War (2018-2020).

by Bryan Boyd (Author), Bryan Jr. Boyd (Author), Melissa Boyd (Other)

S is for Soccer is the perfect book for beginner youth soccer players. From the letter A to the letter Z, this book provides all the basics of soccer and the fundamentals of team work, game rules, positions, and drills of passing, shooting, and kicking.

by Kevin Rhoads (Author)

This is a story about Pierre the Pill Bug, and his absolute love of soccer. He shows us all what determination is.

by Victoria Kann (Author), Victoria Kann (Illustrator)

Readers can watch Pinkalicious and Peterrific on the funtastic PBS Kids TV series Pinkalicious & Peterrific!

#1 New York Times bestselling author Victoria Kann brings young readers on a pinkatastic glove-trotting adventure!

Pinkalicious and her soccer team, the Pinksters, are ready for their first soccer match! When their opponents, the Ravens, show up, they make fun of the Pinksters' pink soccer ball. The ball gets kicked off the field, forcing Pinkalicious to chase after it. Pinkalicious' unicorn Goldilicious just happens to be waiting for her in the crowd and sweeps up Pinkalicious for a pinkatastic journey around the world.

Beginning readers will enjoy the pinkerrific adventure in this Level One I Can Read, perfect for soccer stars and Pinkalicious fans who are learning to sound out words and sentences.

Back Jacket

Pinkalicious and the Pinksters are losing the match! Riding on the back of her unicorn, Goldilicious, Pinkalicious travels the world meeting soccer-playing girls who inspire her to save the game.

by Brenda Ponnay (Author), Brenda Ponnay (Illustrator)

We Can Readers: Raj Plays Soccer It's time for the big match! Raj shows off his hard-earned skills when he plays soccer. He runs, he kicks, he scores! In this very simple 8-page reader, short sentences are paired with fun illustrations featuring an Indian-American character to get kids reading about Raj and his can-do-it mindset. Sample Text: Raj plays soccer. He kicks the ball. This book is part of the We Can Readers series from Brenda Ponnay. This book in the We Can Readers series is Guided Reading Level A. We Can Readers are very short, feature diverse characters, and are suitable for kids just learning to read.

by Daniel Haxall (Editor)

The world's most popular sport, soccer, has long been celebrated as "the beautiful game" for its artistry and aesthetic appeal. Picturing the Beautiful Game: A History of Soccer in Visual Culture and Art is the first collection to examine the rich visual culture of soccer, including the fine arts, design, and mass media. Covering a range of topics related to the game's imagery, this volume investigates the ways soccer has been promoted, commemorated, and contested in visual terms. Throughout various mediums and formats-including illustrated newspapers, modern posters, and contemporary artworks-soccer has come to represent issues relating to identity, politics, and globalization. As the contributors to this collection suggest, these representations of the game reflect society and soccer's place in our collective imagination. Perspectives from a range of fields including art history, sociology, sport history, and media studies enrich the volume, affording a multifaceted visual history of the beautiful game.

Author Biography

Daniel Haxall is Professor of Art History at Kutztown University, USA.

by Steve Herman (Author)

Ronaldo: A Boy Who Became a Star

This is the inspiring children story of Cristiano Ronaldo, a boy who would become a star.

Born in a poor family, the small boy decided to follow his dream, worked hard and overcame all obstacles to become one of the best soccer players in history.

Perfect gift for all soccer fans.

Perfect illustrated book to teach children to work hard to make their dreams come true.

Learn about Ronaldo, and learn how to be successful doing what you love.

Get This Book Now and Enjoy the story of Cristiano Ronaldo!

by K. a. Mulenga (Author)

The members of the Great Reds soccer team have played their very best all season and are now to play the Mighty Reds and Blacks in the 2015 Championship finals. They are set to beat their opponents, but to their shock, the opposing team is soon up three-nil. They did not know if they could come back from this, but during the halftime break their captain reminds them of the team's motto: NEVER GIVE UP. Soon after the second half started, the Great Reds scored their first goal, and their supporters reminded them: NEVER GIVE UP. Will the Great Reds be able to score enough goals during the remaining time to become the champions?

by Adam Elder (Author)

In 1990 a fearless group of players changed the sport of soccer in the United States forever. Young, bronzed, and mulleted, they were America's finest athletes in a sport their country loved to hate. Even sportswriters rooted against them. Yet this team defied massive odds and qualified for the World Cup, making possible America's current obsession with the world's most popular game.

Back then players earned twenty dollars a day, the crowds at home games cheered for their opponents, and the fields were often mismarked. In Latin America the U.S. team bus had a machine gun turret mounted on the back, locals sabotaged their hotels, and in the stadiums spectators rained coins, batteries, and plastic bags of urine down on the U.S. players. The world considered the U.S. team impostors. Yet on the biggest stage of all, in the 1990 World Cup, this undaunted American squad and their wise coach earned the adoration of Italy's star players and their fans in a gladiator-like match in Rome's deafening Stadio Olimpico.

From windswept soccer fields in the U.S. heartland to the CIA-infested cauldron of Central America and the Caribbean, behind the recently toppled Iron Curtain and into the great European soccer cathedrals, New Kids in the World Cup is the origin story of modern American men's soccer. It's the true adventure of America's most important soccer team--and the one that made America finally fall in love with soccer.

Author Biography

Adam Elder is an award-winning journalist whose writing has appeared in the New Yorker, the New York Times Magazine, New York Magazine, Esquire, WIRED, Outside, the Wall Street Journal, the Guardian, and elsewhere.

by Steve Herman (Author)

Messi: A Boy Who Became a Star

This is the inspiring children story of Lionel Messi, a boy who became a star.

Born in a poor family, the small boy faced many obstacles in life, including a medical condition that prevented him from growing...

Perfect gift for all soccer fans.

Perfect illustrated book to teach children to work hard to make their dreams come true.

Learn about Messi, and learn how to be successful doing what you love.

Get This Book Now and Enjoy the story of Lionel Messi!

by Andrei S. Markovits (Author), Steven L. Hellerman (Author)

Soccer is the world's favorite pastime, a passion for billions around the globe. In the United States, however, the sport is a distant also-ran behind football, baseball, basketball, and hockey. Why is America an exception? And why, despite America's leading role in popular culture, does most of the world ignore American sports in return? Offside is the first book to explain these peculiarities, taking us on a thoughtful and engaging tour of America's sports culture and connecting it with other fundamental American exceptionalisms. In so doing, it offers a comparative analysis of sports cultures in the industrial societies of North America and Europe.

Back Jacket

"The vexing question of why soccer struggles to establish itself firmly on the American sports landscape is brilliantly and persuasively answered in this groundbreaking work. Sociology scholars and soccer aficionados alike should be intrigued by this painstakingly comprehensive analysis, made especially accessible by the lively and enthusiastic style of the authors. It is remarkable as a happy marriage of the scholar's methods with the fan's passion for the world's game. A must read for lovers and observers of the game in America and in the totally converted soccer community occupying the rest of our planet."--Seamus Malin, Soccer Commentator, ESPN and ABC

Author Biography

Andrei S. Markovits is Professor of Politics in the Department of Germanic Languages and Literatures and Adjunct Professor of Sociology at the University of Michigan. He is the author of numerous books, including The German Left: Red, Green and Beyond and The German Predicament: Memory and Power in the New Europe. Steven L. Hellerman is a sports journalist and a doctoral candidate at Claremont University's School of Politics and Economics.

by Julie Kenner (Author)

From New York Times and USA Today bestselling author Julie Kenner (aka J. Kenner) comes the sixth installment in the fun-tastic demon-hunting soccer mom series that began with Carpe Demon: Adventures of a Demon-Hunting Soccer Mom!When orphan Kate goes to Rome with her family, she's hoping for a little R&R. The chance to bond with her husband, spend quality time with her kids, and visit her pseudo-family at Forza Scura.In other words, this suburban mom is doing the tourist thing, and intending to do it up right. But while Kate may want to take cheesy pictures and buy overpriced souvenirs, the demon population has other plans. And soon Kate and over-eager daughter Allie are thrust into the middle of a demonic feud.Now Kate's going to have to call on both her hunting skills and her mothering skills-because if she fails, Kate and family might just find themselves sightseeing in hell.Carpe Demon: "I LOVED CARPE DEMON. ... It was great fun, wonderfully clever."-Jayne Ann Krentz, New York Times bestselling author"This book, as crammed with events as any suburban mom's calendar, shows you what would happen if Buffy got married and kept her past a secret. It's a hoot."-Charlaine Harris, New York Times bestselling author"I welcome the novels that decide to be utterly over-the-top and imagine paranormal and superhero lives for their chick- lit heroines. Take Carpe Demon ..." -Detroit Free Press"Sprightly, fast-paced . . . readers will find spunky Kate hard not to root for in spheres both domestic and demonic."-Publishers Weekly"Smart, fast-paced, unique ... a blend of sophistication and wit that has you laughing out loud."-Christine Feehan, New York Times bestselling author"Tongue-in-cheek . . . fast pacing and in-your-face action."-SFReader"Ms. Kenner has a style and delivery all her own . . . fun and innovative . . . [Carpe Demon] shouldn't be missed."-Fallen Angel Reviews"You're gonna love this book! A terrific summer read with lots of humor and crazy situations and action."-Fresh Fiction"This book was so much fun to read. I highly recommend this exceedingly entertaining read!"-Midwest Book Review"A+ ... I am very ready for the next installment in Kate Connor's life."-The Romance Reader's Connection"Kenner scores a direct hit with this offbeat and humorous adventure ... Car pools and holy water make an unforgettable mix."-Romantic TimesCalifornia Demon: "Kenner continues to put her fun, fresh twist on mommy-lit with another devilishly clever book."-Booklist "Plenty of action and humor. Kenner is at her irreverent best . . . delightfully amusing." -The Best Reviews "A fun paranormal adventure that definitely appeals to moms!" -Scribes World "More witty, funny, and poignant adventures from the marvelous Kenner." -Romantic TimesDemons Are Forever: "[A] wonderful author...a fun premise...excellent characterization, intriguing stories, and snappy dialogue." -Fresh Fiction "Kenner's trademark cliffhanger finale promises further demonic escapades to come." -Publishers Weekly "This is the third in Kenner's splendidly creative series featuring Kate, whose wickedly amusing adventures in demon hunting are a pure paranormal delight." -Booklist "This chapter in Kenner's first-person, kick-butt adventures takes a darker turn, and a more serious tone, as Demon Hunter Kate Connor faces long odds and emotional turmoil. The terrific Kenner grabs you and doesn't let go!" -Romantic Times Deja Demon: "A delightfully different take on the paranormal romance theme that will leave fans thirsting for more." -Monsters and CriticsDemon Ex Machina

Author Biography

Julie Kenner (aka J. Kenner and J.K. Beck) is the New York Times, USA Today, Publishers Weekly, and Wall Street Journal bestselling author of over forty novels, novellas and short stories in a variety of genres. Praised by Publishers Weekly as an author with a "flair for dialogue and eccentric characterizations," J.K. writes a range of stories including super sexy romances, paranormal romance, chick lit suspense and paranormal mommy lit. Her foray into the latter, Carpe Demon: Adventures of a Demon-Hunting Soccer Mom by Julie Kenner, is in development as a feature film with 1492 Pictures. J.K. lives in Central Texas, with her husband, two daughters, and several cats.

by Karleen Tauszik (Author)

MY SOCCER SEASON is a full-sized 8 1/2 x 11" sports journal that will help players record all the excitement of the months ahead.

Each page has writing prompts to get players focused on the improvement of their skills and their contributions to each game.

MY SOCCER SEASON includes enough journaling pages for pre-season practice and in-season practices and games. Plus, there are extra pages for tournaments.

There are also seven blank pages at the end for photos, statistics, newspaper or program clippings, mementos, or notes about fun memories.

This unique journal helps kids:

- Focus on the coach's priorities each week.

- Improve as they track their performance.

- Remember their season, their contributions, and all of their fun memories.

And they'll be creating a unique keepsake of the season that they'll treasure for years to come!

In addition, MY SOCCER SEASON provides a fun way for kids to develop skills in writing, composition, grammar, vocabulary, spelling, sentence construction, and handwriting. (Best for ages 8 and up.)

Soccer season will come and go in a blur. Get MY SOCCER SEASON today so the kids you love can record and remember all the thrills and achievements of the season.

MY SEASON journals are also available for baseball, softball, football, basketball, hockey, volleyball, and cheerleading.

by Roy Brandon (Author)

The Life Story of Neymar

Fully illustrated children's book of the story of one of the best soccer player Neymar since he was a kid to when he became one of the best soccer players in the world.

Beautiful graphic for hours of entertainment.

Learn the life of Neymar, and be inspired to be like him someday.

Get this book now and enjoy the rise to stardom of Neymar.

by Barb Chrysler (Author), Claire Lee (Illustrator)

Oh My Gosh, Josh Loves Soccer is a funny book that all parents of children who love sports will identify with. Josh is a mischievous, rambunctious, soccer loving kid who cannot put the ball down. His passion while admirable at times frustrates his mother. Josh is all boy who loves playing soccer. The illustrations are beautifully coloured illustrations wonderfully demonstrate the characters emotions. All parents and children who love sports will identify with this story.

by Stephanie Greene (Author), Martha Weston (Illustrator)

Owen Foote knows that soccer is the greatest sport in the world. He's so excited about being old enough to join the town soccer league that he has talked his best friend, Joseph, into signing up too. But Joseph turns out to be terrible at soccer. That's not the only thing troubling Owen: the other kids on his team, the Aliens, seem to be bigger and older and better at soccer than he is, and at least one of them is mean. But Owen isn't about to give up his best friend or his favorite sport without a struggle. Readers will cheer for Owen as he and Joseph face new challenges on and off the field and come up winners.

by Monica Brown (Author), Rudy Gutierrez (Illustrator)

This acclaimed bilingual children's book, Spanish/English, is a fun way to introduce simple words and phrases in both languages and is sure to be a welcome resource at home and in schools and libraries.

Monica Brown and Rudy Gutierrez team up to deliver what Kirkus called, in a starred review, an "inspiring blend of art and story," about the most famous soccer star in the world, Pelé.

This bilingual picture book will inspire, teach, and amaze readers as they learn about the man who revolutionized the sport of soccer.

Do you know how a poor boy from Brazil who loved fútbol more than anything else became the biggest soccer star the world has ever known? This is the true story of Pelé, King of Soccer, the first man in the history of the sport to score a thousand goals and become a living legend.

Rudy Gutierrez's dynamic illustrations make award-winning author Monica Brown's story of this remarkable sports hero come alive!