Recommended Books

This page has a short list of books that have been recommended by LYSA members.  Keep in mind that there are many excellent books about youth soccer out there and this represents a small fraction. 

 


Books for Coaches

Coaching Youth Soccer: A Baffled Parent's Guide A great book for new or novice coaches.  Covers most aspects of coaching from preparation to practices to first aid to games.

Soccer : How to Play the Game : The Official Playing and Coaching Manual of the United States Soccer Federation  The definitive book on coaching youth soccer.  Good detail on almost every topic from youth characteristics to practice games and activities.

Soccer Practice Games/120 Games for Technique, Training, and Tactics  Need to plan a practice in a hurry?  Pick 3 or 4 games out of this book and your ready to go.  Great book of competitive activities that let the game be the teacher.

 

 

 

The Art of Soccer : A Better Way to Play  The art of war meets soccer.  Take you tactics to the next level.

The Usborne Soccer School  Easy to read. This book would also be appropriate for older players (U12+) to read.  Each part covers a different aspects of the game from ball control to training & fitness.  Looks of pictures and relevant text. 

Positive Coaching : Building Character and Self-Esteem Through Sports  The power of positive coaching cannot be unstated in youth sports.  A great book on the subject.


Additional Books for Parents, Players and Coaches

 

 

Just Let The Kids Play: How to Stop Other Adults from Ruining Your Child's Fun and Success in Youth Sports 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.

 

Soccer For Dummies®  
Co-written by the US Soccer Federation. Whether you are a parent who wants to understand the laws and basic coaching techniques; or you are a coach that wants to know more about the history of soccer around the world you will find a wealth of knowledge in this book.

Go for the Goal : A Champion's Guide to Winning in Soccer and Life  Great book, especially for older girls that explains what it takes to be a champion. 

The Cheers and the Tears : A Healthy Alternative to the Dark Side of Youth Sports Today  Competition is great for kids, but there is a dark side.  Learn to understand what your players expect and need from sports.


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