Do visions of game-winning penalty kicks and World Cup victories dance in your child's head? Does the chant of "GOOOAAALLL" echo through your home? Join the crowd! Soccer is the fastest-growing youth sport in the United States. As a result, millions of moms and dads just like you are finding themselves thrust into the roles of soccer fan, advocate, and often, coach. So how can you best enhance your child's and your own soccer experience?
Inside is an informative and thorough soccer primer for parents of players ages 3 to 13. You will learn about everything important on the field as well as how to make soccer a positive influence off the field, including:
How to choose the right level of play for your child
Ways to ensure your child enjoys the game and avoids burnout
Beneficial nutrition, conditioning, and first-aid tips
Why soccer is a positive life choice for your child
And much more!
"This uniquely practical guide is perfect for both novice and not-so-novice soccer moms and dads!" —Lynn Berling-Manuel, president and publisher, Soccer America magazine
"A must-read for parents, coaches, and administrators of all youth soccer programs." —Dr. Ronald Quinn, associate professor, head women's soccer coach, Xavier University, United States Youth Soccer (USYS) Coaching Committee
"Joe Provey takes the reader through the process of youth soccer and helps make soccer a positive experience for everyone involved!" —Dr. Jay Martin, past president, National Soccer Coaches Association of America (NSCAA), head soccer coach, Ohio Wesleyan University
"A wonderful book: thorough, clear, filled with intelligent and practical ideas." —Dean Conway, director of coaching, Massachusetts Youth Soccer Association
"As complete a guide to soccer as any parent could hope for. No one knows more about youth soccer and parents than Joe Provey." —Dan Woog, executive editor, Soccer America's Youth Soccer Letter
About the Authors:
Joe Provey is cofounder and editor of Soccer Jr. magazine. He also has edited numerous other soccer publications and is a youth soccer coach and lifelong soccer player. He lives in Fairfield, Connecticut.
Owen Lockwood, the managing editor of Soccer Jr. magazine, has written extensively on soccer, covering both youth and professional levels. He lives in Trumbull, Connecticut.
