References

Just Let The Kids Play: How to Stop Other Adults from Ruining Your Child's Fun and Success in Youth Sports by Bob Bigelow, Tom Moroney, and Linda Hall

The authors, who all have children of their own who have played youth sports, contend that children should compete in these programs to have fun and learn the basics of sports activities. However, as former NBA player Bigelow, journalist Tom Moroney, and writer and editor Linda Hall show, children often have difficulties enjoying themselves because organized sports programs emphasize winning at all costs. Many parents also apply a great deal of pressure on their own children to perform at a thletic levels beyond their abilities. The authors argue that both the parents and organizations that sponsor sports programs need to change their philosophy to allow children to enjoy themselves while participating in games. This unique book suggests ways to organize athletic programs to emphasize play rather than competition, stressing that younger children should become involved to have a good time. Only when they become older should they participate in more competitive programs. With practical tips on restructuring the sports programs themselves, this book will be invaluable for parents in preparing their children for organized sports. Recommended for all public libraries. Patrick Mahoney, Off Campus Lib. Services, Central Michigan Univ., Mount Pleasant.

From the Bleachers with Love: Advice to Parents with Kids in Sports by David Canning Epperson & George A. Selleck.

Sports courts, fields, and arenas can be so much more than places for keeping kids off the streets. Well-orchestrated school and youth sports programs have the potential of renewing the spirits of participants, teaching life's lessons, and strengthening family and community ties. This book helps parents take advantage of sports' full range of possibilities for teaching life's lessons and strengthening the family and community. It provides the basis for an ongoing dialogue about how families can get the most out of their sports experiences. In short, it equips parents to add value to their family's investment in sports.

Coaching Girls' Soccer: From the How-To's of the Game to Practical Real-World Advice--Your Definitive Guide to Successfully Coaching Girls by John DeWitt

Girls rule! Coaching girls' soccer is a challenge and also a wonderful experience. Witness a game-winning penalty kick or a goalie who saves an almost unstoppable ball, and you can't help but be inspired. The effort, pride, and enjoyment on the players' faces are great rewards for parents and often the signs of a good coach the type of coach you want to be. So how can you get there? Perfect for coaches of girls up to age 13, Coaching Girls' Soccer includes everything you need to be an outstanding coach and mentor to your team. Whether you are a seasoned coach looking to fine-tune your skills or a rookie eager to take the field running, you'll discover techniques for success that are tailored specifically to the needs of girls.

The Complete Guide to Coaching Soccer Systems and Tactics Jacob Daniel

Covers the principles of attack and defense and all major modern systems of play.

Coaching Youth Soccer: A Baffled Parent's Guide by Bobby Clark

This text is aimed at the unprepared parent who is unwittingly thrust into the role of coaching his or her child's soccer team. It provides the fundamentals a coach needs to control, motivate and encourage a disparate group of boys and girls of varying skills and dispositions.

Coaching Youth Soccer: A Complete Guide for Coaches, Players, and Parents by Howie Thompson & Terry Butcher

This entertaining and easy-to-read guide is perfect for coaches and parents of youth soccer players aged 7 through 14. It touches briefly on the origins of the game, then transitions into basic guidelines for coaching kids (and managing parents!). Covers the organizational structure of the team, age-specific coaching information as well as 50 youth soccer drills. Contains dozens of diagrams, pictures and illustrations.