Amazon.com
The global power of soccer might be a little hard for Americans, living in a country that views the game with the same skepticism used for the metric system and the threat of killer bees, to grasp fully. But in Europe, South America, and elsewhere, soccer is not merely a pastime but often an expression of the social, economic, political, and racial composition of the communities that host both the teams and their throngs of enthusiastic fans. New Republic editor Franklin Foer, a lifelong devotee of soccer dating from his own inept youth playing days to an adulthood of obsessive fandom, examines soccer's role in various cultures as a means of examining the reach of globalization. Foer's approach is long on soccer reportage, providing extensive history and fascinating interviews on the Rangers-Celtic rivalry and the inner workings of AC Milan, and light on direct discussion of issues like world trade and the exportation of Western culture. But by creating such a compelling narrative of soccer around the planet, Foer draws the reader into these sport-mad societies, and subtly provides the explanations he promises in chapters with titles like "How Soccer Explains the New Oligarchs", "How Soccer Explains Islam's Hope", and "How Soccer Explains the Sentimental Hooligan." Foer's own passion for the game gives his book an infectious energy but still pales in comparison to the religious fervor of his subjects. His portraits of legendary hooligans in Serbia and Britain, in particular, make the most die-hard roughneck New York Yankees fan look like a choirboy in comparison. Beyond the thugs, Foer also profiles Nigerian players living in the Ukraine, Iranian women struggling against strict edicts to attend matches, and the parallel worlds of Brazilian soccer and politics from which Pele emerged and returned. Foer posits that globalization has eliminated neither local cultural identities nor violent hatred among fans of rival teams, and it has not washed out local businesses in a sea of corporate wealth nor has it quelled rampant local corruption. Readers with an interest in international economics are sure to like How Soccer Explains the World, but soccer fans will love it. --John MoeBook Description

Religious, economic, political and ethnic divisions around the world are dramatically illuminated using the world's most popular sport as a lens and metaphor. A groundbreaking work.

Soccer is much more than a game, or even a way of life. In fact, it's a perfect window into the cross–currents of today's world, with all of its joys and sorrows. Soccer clubs don't represent geographic areas; they stand for social classes and political ideologies. And unlike baseball or tennis, soccer is freighted with the weight of ancient hatreds and history. It's a sport with real stakes –– one that is capable of ruining regimes and launching liberation movements.In this remarkably insightful, wide–ranging work of reportage, Franklin Foer takes us on a surprising tour through the world of soccer, shattering the myths of our new global age. Instead of destroying local cultures, as the left predicted, globalization has revived tribalism. Far from the triumph of capitalism that the right predicted, it has entrenched corruption. From Brazil to Bosnia, and Italy to Iran, this is an eye–opening chronicle of how a beautiful sport and its fanatical followers can highlight the fault lines of a society, whether it's terrorism, poverty, anti–Semitism, or radical Islam –– issues that now have an impact on all of us. Filled with blazing intelligence, colourful characters, wry humour, and an equal passion for soccer and humanity, How Soccer Explains the World is an utterly original book that makes sense of our troubled times.

Customer Reviews (73)

Biggest disappointment in a book ever.
This was, by far, the most disappointed I've ever been in a book. It's probably my own fault, but I was expecting stories of the cultural importance of soccer/football in different parts of the world.Instead, I feel I've gotten a poorly written set of stories about psychotic fans/owners/players, etc that take the game too far.So much so, in fact, that I'm afraid to go to a game overseas ever for fear that it's either fixed or that I'll be beat up for no apparent reason other than the fact I'm there.

To be fair, I don't think of politics a lot, so that doesn't interest me as much, but even the writing was sub-par.Many of the chapters ended as if the writer just ran out of things to say.

Very disappointed.

A great read
A great book that displays the link between soccer and culture. Sport, and its relevence to history is reflected on every page of this book. Truly a great read for those of us who like to see "the big picture" of sport, how it is influenced by, and how it influences, society

How Soccer Explains the World
My 16 year old son lit up when he saw this book under the tree at Christmas (pretty good for a child who would rather do anything but read)...He is reading daily and absolutely loves it!!!! He has a list of friends and coaches waiting to read it next. A great find for any soccer player or athlete....

There is more to soccer than meets the eye
It looks like a pure and simple game but the owners, fans and players are far from simple and certainly not pure. This book may not explain as much about the world as the author claims but I doubt you will not come to view various soccer matches a bit differently. For example, you might start watching the referee's decisions in Milan and Juventus matchs like a hawk.

Promises More than it Delivers
This book ain't bad; it just promises more than it delivers.Soccer is "the game" everywhere but the United States.Over the last 30 years, though, the sport has made enormous gains in the USA, but it still trails football, basketball, and (probably) baseball in popularity, but it is no longer a foreign sport.Franklin Foer of "The New Republic" promises to offer a theory on globalization through an examination of soccer, and that is certainly a new, creative way of looking at sport.At first, he seems to be doing this.In his prologue, he states, "Everywhere you looked, it suddenly seemed, national borders and national identities had been swept into the dustbin of soccer history.the best clubs now competed against one another on a near-weekly basis in transnational tournaments like the European Champions League or Latin America's Copa Libertadores" (p. 3)Instead of getting a window on the cross-currents of international interaction, we mainly get a series of travelogues, interesting travelogues to be sure, but nothing along the lines of what the author promises.He has a moment at the end, though, when he talks about anti-soccer sentiment in the United States as being a manifestation of a phobia about globalization. ... Read more

Book Description
Written by soccer great and championship Stanford coach Bobby Clark, COACHING YOUTH SOCCER: THE BAFFLED PARENT'S GUIDE tells you how, starting at point zero, an uninitiated coach can meld kids into a team and help them enjoy one of the most rewarding experiences of their youth. (In the end, you may be the one who reaps the biggest reward, as you watch kids learn and grow in an experience they'll treasure for a lifetime.) ... Read more

Customer Reviews (22)

Helpful
I bought this for my daughter who volunteered to be Soccer Coach for the first time.I say she wanted to do it but perhaps was more stong armed into doing it.She found it helpful.

coaching soccer-a baffled parents guide
The book gave very helpful information.I have never coached anything and it gave helpful insight into giving the best experience I can into my son's 4 yr old soccer team.

Great Book!
I'm a second year coach with very limited playing experience.I played soccer during elementary school but it was essentially mob ball.This book has helped a great deal. It gives great suggestions for organizing practices and the drills, ahem I mean games, are great. The problem, analysis, solution section is also very helpful.

Wonderful!Highly Recommended!
This book helped organize my practices and provided ideas for drills that kept my U8 Boys team interested the entire season.I received numerous compliments from parents that their kids enjoyed the variety of "games" (i.e. drills) we played in practice.My team went 11-2 this past season and all my players chose to return for the spring season over baseball and other sports.I honestly feel this book improved my coaching style and played a large part in the success of our team.

extremely helpful
I am coaching my daughter's U-8 AYSO soccer team this season and was in desperate need of an easy overview of rules as well as age and skill appropriate drills for practices.This book was very helpful and I am using it as a resource. ... Read more

Book Description
Are you among the millions of kids who live to play soccer?If you are, you'll love The Everything Kids' Soccer Book!Inside this exciting book, you'll find out how to excel at this hugely popular sport, with professional instruction on:
The complete rules of the game
Techniques for dribbling, trapping, and heading the ball
The arts of defense and goaltending
Winning techniques and drills
Tips on how to maintain possession of the ball

Soccer player and coach Deborah W. Crisfield gives you lots of advice on stretching, endurance building, and strength training.Along the way, she includes some amazing facts on the World Cup and American soccer stars, such as Landon Donovan and Mia Hamm, and offers dozens of puzzles and games.The Everything Kids' Soccer Book is definitely a GOAL! ... Read more

Customer Reviews (7)

Daughter Enjoys
My daughter has learned a lot from this read, it is informative and talks about rules of the game as well as moves.

Has alot of information, but not enough to capture an 8 year old
I bought this for my 8 year old and even looked over it myself.It has alot of info but she didn't seem too interested.Maybe she just doesn't like to read - but she did it one day and hasn't touched it in a year.I never wrote my reviews - it's been a year and the book looks like brand new . . . should have saved my money - but is a good source of learning for kids who actually LIKE to read! LOL

Good for 8-11 year olds
I think this book has a good amount of information in it for kids in the 8 - 11 year old age bracket.They introduce skills and strategies that many novice coaches may not be providing.I wish that some of the skills were illustrated in more detail.For example, just mentioning that you should keep your toe pointed down for an instep kick is not sufficient; it is critical to have the heel locked down.A better illustration would help emphasize points like this.Overall I would very much recommend this book.

a GREAT way to kick-off a love of SOCCER.
Attention soccer kids and soccer moms!

Deborah W. Crisfield, author of "Winning Soccer for Girls" and "The Mom's Guide to Sports," has produced this challenging, educational book great for young soccer-players-to-be.This softback included professional instruction on the: RULES of the GAME, TECHNIQUES for DRIBBLING, TRAPPING, and HEADING the BALL, defense, GOALTENDING, DRILLS, TIP on maintaining POSSESSION of the BALL. The book also includes loads of PUZZLES and GAMES to play that relate nicely to DRILLS provided.

The book is easy to read for juvenile readers (8-10 yrs) full of fun graphics, tips, terms and soccer fun facts, and World Cup and American soccer star bios. The Everything Kids' Soccer Book even includes soccer jokes, like:

"Why won't CINDERELLA ever be a great goalkeeper?

BECAUSE she runs away from the BALL

Super Book!
Excellent book! I am happy to have it in my library! Learned a lot of new techniques! Highly recommended! ... Read more

Book Description

A PAPERBACK ORIGINAL

A games-based alternative to tedious rote exercises, guaranteed to keep practices fun, engaging, and productive

Great Soccer Drills provides soccer coaches with a great way to make every soccer practice active, fun, and productive. Coaches get 125 games guaranteed to keep kids moving and excited while teaching them basic skills, sharpening their reflexes, and building their confidence and decision-making ability. Written by two of North America's foremost names in youth soccer coaching, it also includes guidelines on how to create just the right blend of drills to hold the attention of six- to twelve-year-old players.

Great Soccer Drills can be used in conjunction with the bestselling Coaching Youth Soccer: A Baffled Parent's Guide or as an excellent stand-alone resource for spicing up any practice.

Customer Reviews (14)

Soccer drills found here
My wife bought this for her youth boys soccer team and found it to be very helpful in setting up drills to keep the boys busy and learning.She played soccer through highschool and still found the pages to be full of helpful ideas.

Worth the price.

Excellent coaching primer for all levels of youth soccer
I received a copy of this book as part of a U6/U8 coaching clinic that I attended last fall. The instructor had a lot of praise for the text, and incorporated a lot of the coaching philosophy and the drills into his presentation.

The book is full of good, common-sense coaching advice that's particularly useful for the novice coach, although I think that even seasoned coaches will find some great ideas here.

I've used quite a few of the activities in my practices, and they really do work quite well. The backbone of each and every one of these drills is that they get ALL of your kids involved in practicing. There is nothing here that puts your athletes in enthusiasm-sapping and attention-deficit producing lines. Every drill is carefully designed to keep your kids moving and learning at all times.

The text is clear and well-written and the pictures and illustrations do a good job of supporting the activities. Overall, it's very well-done. I've been coaching for 6 seasons now, and I really wish that I had discovered this book sooner.

Highly recommened, especially for new youth soccer coaches.

Wonderful even for seasoned coaches
I've been coaching for at least five years now and this book has some really fantastic drills in it.My under 11 team was cracking up while working hard and that is the best thing to see.This is an especially great book for working with children even younger.I'm enjoying all the drills.

Just Get It
I have been coaching youth soccer for about 5 years now after having played from age 4-18.This book truly helped my practices become more fun, developmental and organized for the kids.I love the section that has pre-set practices for different skill sets.

Couldn't be better!
I've been coaching my sons team for 2 years now. Under 8, Under 10 and getting ready to begin our 2nd Under 10 season. This book is essential to my success as a coach! Wonderful drills and skill builders that are broken down by skill type and age group. Great directions and diagrams. My favorite part of the book is the way it teaches you how to make a soccer practice plan for each practice. You can pick and choose the drills and games you like in order to customize your practices the way you see fit. This is a great book for any soccer coach. Learn to maximize each and every minute of practice while your players have a blast and actually learn something too! ... Read more

Book Description
With Skills and Strategies for Coaching Soccer, you have access to 120 drills for teaching skills to players at all levels--from beginning to intermediate to advanced. And for each skill, you'll find drills for players at different levels of development.

Some of the basic skills presented include collecting and controlling, passing, dribbling, kicking, heading, goalkeeping, and the throw in. You'll also find

• offensive moves and countering defensive moves;

• 120 drills for beginning, intermediate, and advanced players;

• coaching points for each drill;

• a fitness program for soccer;

• sample game situations and how to coach in those situations;

• 246 high-quality illustrations of field diagrams and skill execution; and

• methods of coaching that are appropriate for individuals or groups. ... Read more

Customer Reviews (14)

The best book on soccer coaching
If you are coaching soccer for kids, and are eager to learn more about improving your own skills, this is the book to read! As you become an even better coach, your players will also benefit. The book is packed with information. The basics are well explained, and many specific suggestions are made for exercises that are fun, and at the same time provide good learning for the players. Contained in the book is also a first hand introduction to soccer that will teach you what to look for next time you watch a soccer game, and most important, a tool for improving the skills of your players in a human and friendly way. This book will improve your perception. Highly recommended!

Excellent Resource for ANY Soccer Coach
This book includes excellent drills for skills ranging from fundamental to experienced. It also gets into a lot of game strategy, and it addresses the special situations such as throw-ins and corner kicks from offense and defense. I really like how he pulls in excellent advice and his philophy for coaching. If I had to select just one book for my coaching library, it would be this one!

Great Intermediate Book
First, I have to define intermediate.I have coached U6 and U8 for 5 seasons, and have just moved up to coach U11.I bought this book and Progressive Soccer, and this book was MUCH better.It's pretty beat up now because I refer to it constantly.It has drills and games for all the skills, and most of them start out at a low level (U8 or so) and get more advanced.Almost all of them have worked out well for our team.
I would say this is not a beginner's book, too much info and probably too in depth for a brand-new coach.Not a lot of "kiddie games" like you would use for U6 or U8.I would say U10 and up can get a lot out of this book.
My only complaint is I would like a little more in the team strategy parts and "system of play" parts, the book is a little weak on those areas, other than going through some different formations (which won't apply if you don't play 11 on 11).
Again, highly recommended for the coach moving up for the first time into the U10 age group for the first time.

Coach
This book is very good for an experienced coach or a coach of older (14+) players.It is well written, encourages coaches to have a positive attitude towards their players & the game, & includes a wealth of material.For the younger team, it doesn't encourage the "have fun & think for yourself" attitude that is enouraged in current coaching classes or by the American Youth Soccer Association.

OUTSTANDING for the intermediate coach
Absolutely terrific book -- spanning all aspects of team and individual play.I own a number of books -- usually too basic or far too advanced.Hargreaves' book is exceptional in that it takes soccer coaching to a highquality level in terms of both theory and tactics.Probably not the best"first" book for a beginning coach, but great for Under-10 andover (and perhaps U8 advanced play).I'm back to buy additional copies formy assistant coaches.My highest, 5-star recommendation. ... Read more

Product Description
The Ultimate Guide to Weight Training for Soccer is the most comprehensive and up-to-date soccer-specific training guide in the world today. It contains descriptions and photographs of over 80 of the most effective weight training, flexibility, and abdominal exercises used by athletes worldwide. This book features year-round soccer-specific weight-training programs guaranteed to improve your performance and get you results.

No other soccer book to date has been so well designed, so easy to use, and so committed to weight training. This book contains the type of training needed to overwhelm the opposing team with speed, stamina, and overall strength. By following this program, you will have the energy and power to move past and out-muscle your opponent which guarantees soccer players of all skill levels better results when fighting for position, running the field, and scoring goals.

Both beginners and advanced athletes and weight trainers can follow this book and utilize its programs. From recreational to professional, thousands of athletes all over the world are already benefiting from this book and its techniques, and now you can too!

As an added bonus, this book also contains links to free record keeping charts which normally sell separately for $20. ... Read more

Customer Reviews (5)

New Edition is Way Better
I'm a multi sport athlete who trains all year round regardless of what sport I play. I bought a few of these Ultimate Guide to Weight Training books, and they definitely helped me train specifically for the different sports that I play. Then about a year later I received an email from amazon that there was a new edition out.These upgraded editions are even better than the originals, with more articles and a lot more sport-specific information. I would definitely recommend this series to anyone who plays a lot of sports or wants to specifically focus on training for one sport in particular.

Play like Beckham!
This book is great for any soccer player!I recommend it to anyone who wants to increase agility and stamina.This book has improved my game through its various exercises and weight lifting techniques.I highly recommend it to any soccer player at any level.A great buy!!!

awesome!
This is the best book I have found of its kind! A workout plan just for soccer players that is clear and easy to understand.You can use this program at any skill level and see results fast.Definitely worth the price - I have introduced this program to my whole team!

Money Well Spent!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
I was recommended this book from a friend of mine who is also a soccer nut like myself.I found that this book clearly outlines how the individual player can exponentially increase their level of effectiveness on the pitch.Besides improving my general performance on the field by increasing my level of stamina, strength, and flexibility, I found that this book serves as a very good starting points for players of all abilities and ages.

This book provides advice narrowly tailored towards soccer players.Where other books fail to provide advice about how one can prevent injures and make training fun, this book undoubtedly succeeds!!!Overall, a great buy.

Fantastic Training Aid
Its been a long time that I've found a book to be as functional as this one.It outlines soccer specific programs that are easy to follow and even easier to understand.My efficiency in the weightroom has increased ten fold, and I am now faster and more powerful than ever before.Also, I am quicker and able to make sharper cuts on the field and can jump higher now to reach up for difficult headers.All in all, this is a great book that I would recommend to anyone interested in enhancing their soccer playing performance. ... Read more

Book Description
The National Soccer Coaches Association of America assembled an all-star lineup of 30 top coaches to bring you the most complete collection of soccer insight ever put into print. The Soccer Coaching Bible covers every important aspect to coaching the sport, including coaching priorities and principles, program building and enrichment, practice management, technical and tactical instruction, player and team development, and career growth. The contributing coaches include:

C. Cliff McCrath, Anson Dorrance, Steve Sampson, George Perry, Joe Bean, Charlie Slagle, John Rennie, Mike Jacobs, Joe Morrone, Lauren Gregg, Jeff Tipping, Barry Gorman, Ron McEachen, Layton Shoemaker, Jim Lennox, Peter Mellor, Tony Waiters, Jay Hoffman, Peter Gooding, Al Miller, Tracey Leone, Jay Martin, Miller Bugliari, Tim Schum, Chris Petrucelli, Colleen Hacker, Jeff Vennell, Schellas Hyndman, Tony DiCicco, Glenn Myernick,

Each time you open this book you'll learn something new and useful for your next practice, game, or season. Whether you coach at the club, high school, or college level, The Soccer Coaching Bible is an essential addition to your coaching library. ... Read more

Customer Reviews (5)

Intermediate to advance
This book is great but I have not had timeto finish reading. All the topics are well done.

Tom Hull - Review as Coach and Owner
Nicely organized book for any soccer coach or aspiring coach.This covers ground that some books tend to miss.We've used this in our youth clinics and drill instruction.I enjoyed it and recommend it to anyone that will be putting time into the development of athletes and/or teams.
We've move onto Football in that season as many people do but there are drills that translate into other sports.This includes Basketball and Baseball as the top-3.Again this is highly recommended and can help with strategy and scoring.Very appropriate.
Tom Hull
Coach
Binghamton New York
Richmond - Central Virginia
Boca Raton - Glades & Federal Highway

Superb
This book is for every soccer coach out there, at any level. It has fantastic contributions from the likes of Anson Dorrance and Steve Sampson. I am a UEFA A licensed coach, and this book was well worth me reading!

Great Collection for Coaches
This is a great collection of articles from experienced coaches and trainers - many of them well-known names. Coaches at any level will benefit from the insights offered. Topics cover a wide range from the philosophical (coaching principles and objectives) through adminstrative (club, team adn league management) and nuts and bolts (training for specific outcomes, developing training activities, fitness).

The book finishes with chapters on player motivation and management as well as a look at coaching opportunites.

Overall, it covers as wide a field as you can expect from any one book. On the negative side, those looking for extensive training outlines and menus of training activities will need to supplement this volume with more specific coaching books.

Keep looking
This book is fair.It's great for a coach moving up to club levels.Where they need to know team management motivation, etc. But if your looking for rules, tactics, techniques:It's lacking. ... Read more

Book Description
“Entertaining, very informative, and essential for parents, fans, and players.”
—Tony DiCicco, Head Coach, 1999 Women’s Cup Champions

“Two thumbs up.... This book will broaden your knowledge of the game.”
—Ron Newman, all-time winningest American Soccer Coach

“This book will help people to understand why soccer is the world’s sport and why we love it so much.”
—Tiffeny Milbrett, Forward, U.S. Women’s National Team

“Fans will love it, and those who want to become fans will devour it.”
—Bob Ley, ESPN/ABC Broadcaster

Simplicity alone doesn’t explain soccer’s enormous popularity worldwide. Soccer is a game that can be as frustrating as golf, as physical as football and hockey, as sporadic as baseball, and as graceful as basketball. It can also be addictive. Whether you are a youth league player, a soccer parent, or a World Cup fan, here, at last, is the book you’ve been waiting for. Written by New York Daily News soccer columnist Michael Lewis with the full support and participation of the United States Soccer Federation, Soccer For Dummies shows you how to:

• Get a handle on soccer rules and regulations
• Learn the basic moves and plays
• Improve dribbling, passing, and other basic skills
• Find a league to play in
• Coach kids effectively
• Get more out of the game as a spectator

Get Soccer For Dummies and get the lowdown on the world’s most popular sport from some of its most celebrated players. ... Read more

Customer Reviews (7)

Not very good.
This book isn't particularly good for anything.It covers many aspects of the sport, but doesn't do any one aspect justice. I was especially unhappy with the the rules section. And who could forget Brandi Chastain ripping off her jersey after the penalty kick . . . .

Soccer for Spectators
An excellent refresher for those out-of-touch with soccer as well as for those just learning the game.As the parent of a former high school and college soccer player, but that was a few years back, I thought I knew the game.Now with 4 grandchildren playing, I wanted a easy-to-read refresher.This is it.I applaud the writer and encourage all who are players, or spectators, to spend a few evenings with this easy, and fun to read, book. It is very well done.

Phil

Great intro
This is a book, especially for parents who are trying to figure out the game and people who'd like to learn more about it.

A complete waste of time
This is the first time I have reviewed a book for Amazon. I am doing this because I consider this book to be 100% garbage.

If you are looking for a book full of annoying cross references (i.e. see page 118; see page 73) and for a book which repeats the same quotes or phrases in different chapters (was there really no editor?) BUY THIS BOOK.

Also, if you are looking for cheap tid-bits and trivia about the US women's soccer team (was it really necessary to write three times about one female ripping her shirt off after a goal?) BUT THIS BOOK.

If you want to have a general overview about the rules of Soccer but want nothing of strategy, technique, training, then BUY THIS BOOK. (or why not just go to the FIFA website and download the same rules which make up 50% of this book)

But if you want to learn how to play or coach soccer, forget it. This book is a COMPLETE waste of time.

Excellent intro for newcomers; solid content for veterans
Carries on the excellent tradition of the "for dummies" books: offers solid content and information for veteran soccer afficionados while organized as a well-written, well rounded introduction for the novice.Gives comprehensive overviews about all aspects of the game -- rules, strategies, the world of professional soccer (the leagues, tournaments, events), as well as an excellent history of the game and its development.It's refreshing to see a book for newcomers that doesn't strip things down - there is a wealth of well-researched information here that is useful for the experienced fan or participant. ... Read more

Book Description

Soccer is fun - let's play!

Find all the basics in this lively guide.

• The markings on a soccer field
• What soccer players wear
• The positions, from forward to goalkeeper
• The excitement of pasing a ball
• The thrill of making a goal

All these and more are included, with a useful glossary at the end.

Customer Reviews (2)

Great for four year olds!
My two love this book.It breaks the principles of the game into simplistic steps and basic explanations which are perfect for preschoolers.The bold pictures make the book enjoyable for the boys to "read" to themselves sometimes, too.

Good for 4 or 5 year olds.
I was very disappointed when I first looked at this book.It is very basic and hardly seems to provide enough information to be worthwhile.But when I read it to my four year old it solicited a string of questions.So it probably has the about the right amount of information for a very basic introduction to soccer, which is all the intended audience is ready for.Overall I would recommend it. ... Read more

Book Description
The definitive book about soccer. With a new foreword for the American edition.

There may be no cultural practice more global than soccer. Rites of birth and marriage are infinitely diverse, but the rules of soccer are universal. No world religion can match its geographical scope. The single greatest simultaneous human collective experience is the World Cup final.

In this extraordinary tour de force, David Goldblatt tells the full story of soccer's rise from chaotic folk ritual to the world's most popular sport-now poised to fully establish itself in the USA. Already celebrated internationally, The Ball Is Round illuminates soccer's role in the political and social histories of modern societies, but never loses sight of the beauty, joy, and excitement of the game itself.

Customer Reviews (3)

A book which I hoped would never end but I finished far too quickly
I've read a lot of books about sports in my relatively short time on this planet and while I have really enjoyed many of them and reread a few multiple times, this was definitely the first sports-related book I have ever NOT wanted to finish.Based on my rating, you can tell I mean this in a completely positive way: this book was easily one of the most informative and engaging texts I have ever had the pleasure of reading.

The main point of this text is the history of soccer (or football, whichever you may prefer - I'm an American, so soccer it is), which is clear from the subtitle on the cover.Yet there is so, so, so much more contained within the rougly 900 pages that span the book's binding.You have a lot of politics, great human successes and failures, stories of survival and disaster, as well as small passages that set you in a certain time and space where Goldblatt takes you to a scene important to the chapter or section.

For a well-read fan of the game, the importance of this book lies in the first half of it, as Goldblatt starts from the very beginning, discussing ball games of the ancient world, moving to the late 19th century and the creation of the English FA and the FA Cup, the development of professionalism (both accepted and hidden) versus amateurism, and while he obviously takes the history all the way to the present, the first half of the book opens up a history of the sport that many know absolutely nothing about.Soccer in the first half of the 20th century is not a well-known history, one Goldblatt marvelously elucidates.

For those who like the sport but know little about it, the book shows you how much there was to soccer before the advent of the Premier League, corporate sponsorship, and 32 teams in the World Cup.Goldblatt does a tremendous job of really digging into the social and political implications and uses of the sport in various countries, from the first world to the third.

Perhaps the most impressive part is that this text is all-inclusive.You don't just get a history of European soccer with a decent bit about South America and occasional mentions or anecdotes from Africa, North America, Australia, or Asia.Goldblatt delves into every continent's history and relationship to the game, truly showing how soccer really is the global game.All in all, this is a fantastic read and I highly recommend it to anyone.

The Football Bible
This is amazing, wide ranging work that tells the story of football (soccer) and places it in the social context of the times. It is a dense and scholarly work which covers a lot of world history and social class because football does not stand on it's own as simply a game but it is much more important than life and death(to paraphrase Bill Shankly's famous quote).
Goldblatt is a very good writer who had me reaching for the Dictionary, who is able to synthesize the rich history of world football into a readable account. I appreciate the match accounts from great matches.
I see this book as an companion to the excellent History of Football BBC series. The only drawback with this book is that it should have more photos

Colossal yet Readable
I found this book to be phenomenal.I must admit that I am a rather new prosylyte to "futbol" or soccer as we call it here in the States.I really new nothing about the history of the sport and very little about modern rules or teams or leagues.That having been said, I found the book to be very informative.Goldblatt begins with the "pre-history" of soccer, exposing many nationalist myths about soccer's origins and placing it firmly into the realm of a Celtic game taken up by elite public school boys in Victorian England.

The chapters dealt with specific subjects and I actually found the book to be extremely well organized.Time periods are gone through and after World War I, Goldblatt begins seperating chapters by region (Latin America from 1934-1954, Europe from 1934-1954, Africa from 1900-1974, Latin America from 1955-1974, etc.).

Having said all of that, what made this book especially interesting to me was the placing of soccer within a much larger context.He takes the narrative of soccer and places it within the meta-narrative of world history, economics, sociology, and anthropology.Soccer serves as the thread through which modern history is successfully traced.The writing is brilliant, at times incredibly deep, but always readable and always urging the reader to continue.Each chapter contains a reflection on a notable match of that time period.These are written in a completely different style than the rest of the book and are absolutely incredible.The writing is brilliant and the imagery is transportive.

All in all, more than deserving of five stars.This soccer "newbie" has become a seasoned vet in a span of less than one thousand pages. ... Read more

Book Description
Make each practice more challenging, productive, and fun with 125 games! Divided into six sections, Soccer Practice Games presents games on the following aspects:

· Warm-up and conditioning
· Passing and receiving
· Dribbling, shielding, and tackling
· Heading and shooting
· Tactical training
· Goalkeeper training

Each game maximizes player involvement, activity, and learning and contains at least one major objective related to player or team development. A detailed explanation and accompanying illustrations are provided for each game to make application easy. Games can be easily adapted to accommodate players of various ages and abilities.

Designed for beginning youth through high school competitive levels, Soccer Practice Games is a big winner among coaches and those who teach soccer. Whether working with whole teams, small groups, or players one-on-one, it is a fun and effective way to instruct and learn the game. ... Read more

Customer Reviews (11)

Decent Resource for Youth Soccer Coaches
These game-style drills make soccer practices much more fun, and they help teach fundamentals at the same time. This book doesn't really get into strategies or position playing, but it is a good collection of drills that will keep all of your players busy and learning.

One of the better tools for coaches of pre High School players
This is a useful book when you know what you want to work on with your players and are just looking for another way to approach it. Not all the games are going to be effective but you should find some that will apply to your team and age group.Specifically, if players can't "score' and earn points "goals" then they are of more limited use and are really drills not games.The book has both.

Luxbacher's the Best!
I've read all of Luxbacher's soccer books.Judging by how he writes, he's one of the best youth coaches in America.I've incorporated many of Luxbacher's drills and small-sided games into my sons' teams' practices.Luxbacher and publisher Human Kinetics are the best in America!

Great ideas for a coach who does not have any
One of the best books on soccer coaching ever.The drills are very simple to follow.I have incorporated some of the ideas into my own coaching sessions and the team that I coach really loves it. They have fun whilst at the same time they learn some basic skills.With this book, you will not be short of ideas on how to run soccer practices.

Great book for new coaches!
This is my first year coaching. I was worried what/how to teach 3 & 4th graders. This book gave MANY excellent drills and games for the kids to play and learn. The diagrams were very helpful. If your looking for a good book with lots of great ideas...this is great for any level player or coach!! ... Read more

Book Description
This new edition of Eduardo Galeano's riveting commentary on the history and politics of soccer includes newly written material on the 2002 World Cup, which one quarter of humanity watched. Discussing everything from the leveling of the Twin Towers to the death of the sole survivor of that extraordinary match between British and German soldiers in 1915, one of South America's greatest commentators issues forth on robotic soccer in Japan, the mass-production of the game as a sign of the decline of civilization, the amazing success of Senegal and Turkey, and how Nike beat Adidas. ... Read more

Customer Reviews (32)

Random Essays on Professional Soccer
Eduardo Galeano has collected a series of short essays developing random thoughts about professional soccer.He seems to decry the fact that professional soccer has become big entertainment business. I detected an inate longing for watching men play soccer just for the joy of participating in a boys game in several of Mr. Galeano's essays. However, he does develop some interesting imagry and metaphors to describe the game of soccer.

One of my all-time favorite books
I liked the my old paperback edition so much, I bought a hardbound version of the new edition.(The new material BTW is just a continuation of Galeano's commentaries this time centered on the 2002 World Cup tournament.Older version just went up to the 1998 tournament.)

Any discussion of Galeano's writing must begin with his inimitable style.For lack of a proper genre, I call his writings "mosaicos", as each little vignette is like an individual tile in a larger, greater picture.Sometimes this format can be a bit disjointed, but in "Soccer Sun Shadow", it works because the Reader understands that the vignettes are organized chronologically.Galeano does have some vignettes about the origins of the game and its spread to the far-flung corners of the world by British imperialists, but by and large the narrative begins with accounts of games/goals/players from the early 1950s.Since Galeano is Uruguayan, he also has a decidedly Latin American bias (so don't expect to be reading about European teams of the era).

I'm 42 years old and a fan of soccer; some of the stories/players mentioned I had never heard of, so it was refreshing to hear a bit of this history.Once Galeano's narrative caught up to my earliest memories of the game (1970/1974 World Cups), I felt like I was talking to an old friend about a subject we both love.I think that's why I like this book so much:it blends my love of literature (I'm an English teacher) with my love of soccer, and it does it so poetically, so precisely, with such quick turns of language, it is a distinct pleasure to read and reminisce.

I'm not saying you should buy two copies of "Soccer Sun Shadow" (like I did), but if you buy one, I'm sure you'll enjoy the read.

My favorite book about soccer
This is a beatifully written little book about the world's greatest game.When I come across people who just can't udnerstand why soccer is the favorite sport (in all countries but the US) I give them this book to read.

It is actually a series of elegant little essays -- (it doesn't neccesarily need to be read in order).

Fine writing with or without a game
There are few books of non-fiction whose writing transcends the subject matter, but this is such a book.I am not a soccer player but this book made me a fan of the game and a fan of Galeano.He puts us on a field, in the stands, at the goal, in the sun, and under the shadows.He transports us into the game and celebrates its mystique and passion and sadness.And, amazingly, he does it in as few words as possible, giving us just a few paragraphs at a time but creating huge panoramas of emotion with those words.I'll tell you how much I love this book: it sits on my night stand, ready for me to read a paragraph or two and be transported by a magical game and a writer of similar power.

Soccer: game, passion, art
This book by Eduardo Galeano wants to show much about the experience of soccer, an international phenomenon of the masses that is fabulous business and demanding sport, but above all, a game with the potential of poetry. In ancient times, 'poiesis' (Greek word) had some power over the ear and thus over the feeling and thought of peoples, back when the written word was in its infancy. 'Poiesis' was life therapy. Nowadays not all of us appreciate poetry, and we moderns certainly do not have that ancient sense of 'poiesis' as "creation"; for us poetry is more or less pretty words, written, barely experienced and poorly recited. Something like that happens with soccer. When Galeano writes in the Introduction, "a pretty move for the love of God," he encapsulates everything he tries to express in this book of the passion for soccer, and invites us to share this yearning reading the histories and legends he documents, in search of that playful, passionate art.
Enjoy! ... Read more

Book Description
It's the day of the big game, and Froggy is ready.His soccer team is playing the Wild Things for the City Cup. All Froggy has to do is remember the rule: "Head it! Boot it! Knee it! Shoot it! BUT DON'T USE YOUR HANDS!"But Froggy's busy doing cartwheels and picking daisies.Uh oh, Froggy! Here comes the ball! Budding soccer players and Froggy's many fans will welcome Froggy's latest hilarious adventure. ... Read more

Customer Reviews (7)

Great book - lousy binding
My son loves this book, but after about 4 readings it started to fall apart and about 5 pages are now floating around somewhere in my house.Great book, just get the hardcover copy.

Book falls apart
This is my grandson's favorite Froggy story. However, the quality of the paper back book is abysmal. Both copies fell apart within 24 hours, with the middle pages detaching almost at once. Children's books must be durable and these are not. Don't waste your money.

Froggy Plays Soccer
I would recommend this book if your child likes soccer or if you are hoping your child will like soccer, otherwise not such a great book.... I thought it was cute but definitely something a child who likes soccer can only appreciate

Just mailing it in at this point
The original "Froggy Gets Dressed" book was extremely clever. But this book is the weakest brand extension since Lego clothing. It includes the basic Froggy elements (sound effects starting with z, authority figures yelling "FRROOGGYY", and our noble protagonist turning more red than green) but you have to wonder when the most original part of the story is Froggy picking his nose. Of course, if your child likes Froggy and likes soccer they will love the book, but I wish the authors had put a bit more effort into it.

Cute!
An adorable book.Froggy books are great...if you like the others this is a must have; especially if you knwo someone who loves soccer! ... Read more

Product Description
The room was a marketer s dream, filled with educated, savvy women with money and the urge to spend it. Holly asked a pointed question: "How many of you in the room consider yourself a Soccer Mom?" The silence reached a crescendo and nary a hand rose.

Every time Holly asks that question, usually only one or two women raise their hands. The numbers never change. Normally, only one to two percent of the crowd identifies themselves as a Soccer Mom. If you listen to marketers and politicians, there are millions upon millions of Soccer Moms out there, yet we've found only about seven.

What's going on here? Why aren't more women identifying themselves as Soccer Moms? Come on, there's nothing wrong with being a Soccer Mom, right? Right?

If women don't consider themselves Soccer Moms, what does that say about the effectiveness (or ineffectiveness) of billions of dollars of advertising aimed at this group?

It's time for a wake-up call about who today's female consumer really is, how she really thinks, and why she really buys both online and offline. Prepare to kick the Soccer Mom myth to the sidelines, and learn how to market to women in a way that translates into more customers, AND bigger profit. ... Read more

Book Description
Packed with drills and tips for practice and game days

The fun and easy way(r) to kick-start your soccer coaching skills

Volunteering as a youth soccer coach can be a great experience, both for you and your squad. But what if you've never coached before? Don't worry! This friendly guide explains soccer rules, shows you how to approach coaching, and gives you practical pointers on improving your team's soccer skills and encouraging good sportsmanship.

Discover how to

• Understand soccer rules
• Develop a coaching philosophy
• Teach soccer fundamentals
• Run great practices
• Lead your team during a game
• Communicate effectively with parents

Customer Reviews (2)

Coaching Soccer For Dummies
This is a great book for anyone thinking of coaching a soccer team..it is full of great information.

First Time Soccer Coach
My 5 year old signed up for instructional soccer, the local parks and rec. deparment needed coaches, next thing you know I'm a soccer coach.Step one, buy a book that will get me started on the right foot, and that's exactly what this book was.This book provided me with the guidelines for dealing with the parents as well as providing me with a refresher on the ins and outs of soccer.I would recommend this to any coach just starting out.If you have previous knowledge of soccer either playing or coaching this may not be the book for you as it is very basic. ... Read more

Amazon.com
Soccer continues to grow in popularity in the United States, with another huge surge thanks to the U.S. Women's Team winning the World Cup in 1999. But players can only be as good as their coaches, and coaches are always looking for help. Soccer: How to Play the Game contains detailed information on necessary skills, from basics like dribbling the ball and throw-ins to advanced skills like sliding tackles and goalkeeping. Each is presented separately, with photographs and drawings of a player executing the skill, advice on how to perform it and when to use it, and most common mistakes. Over 100 practice games, coded for different player ages and levels of instruction, are also outlined to help players develop their technique. Throughout the book, the authors stress the need to create a positive environment in practice and encourage creativity as well as technical correctness. Most importantly, the authors understand that kids are not just small adults--and they back up their understanding with advice on how to help kids fall in love with "the beautiful game." Published under the auspices of the United States Soccer Federation, Soccer: How to Play the Game will inspire coaches and players alike. --Sunny DelaneyBook Description

Customer Reviews (12)

Coaching Book
GREAT book. I love it. Very helpful, even during the middle of practice, I can run over and look up something the team needs to work on.

A good book!
How to play soccer is a good book. It teaches most of basic techniques separately, like dribling, heading goalkeeping. But it does not teaches exercises to achieve strength, speed and agility. It is good for coaches who want to train their team to better football. It may not be as good for players who are learning individually.

WATCH OUT!
There are many errors of technique taught here (for example, goalie hand positions).Not a good book.

It's nice but...
If you're looking for a coaching book, this is very good, but there are better.For instance - any title by Joe Luxbacher.

Could be a good deal better
A tip of the hat to the coaches and officials who tried to put into one volume a basic overview of the game, its rules, tactics, and suggested drills. This large-format paperback, on heavy stock with very clear reproduction, is a quality product. However-- it doesn't work very well. The organization of the material is clumsy and the chosen method of presenting diagrams and figures was conceived by an art director with immortality in mind, and maybe he will be plaing chess with Beethoven in heaven but here on earth I can't bloody stand looking at the frozen plasticized figurines used to illustrate basic soccer technique and positions. Apparently the current thinking in book design is to dispense with headlines and subheads, so as to cause readers to wander aimlessly through the pages looking for "Rule 7" or "How to play center mid". I have had the book six months, read it cover to cover, and subsequently consulted it two dozen times and I am here to say, alas, it achieves approximately 44 percent of its potential, which is far short of enough. Yet what is the alternative? The goal: a primer for Norteamericano parents who never played soccer and want to help teach their kids, walk the walk, talk the talk, and --look out--someday be able to fullfil the role of linesman without having bananas thrown at them. If there is a better book out there, somebody please list it in a review. Meantime, this one is not a disaster, but don;t get your hopes up. ... Read more

Book Description
Master all the fundamentals that matter on the pitch with Soccer Skills & Drills. This comprehensive instructional guide for players and coaches alike teaches the techniques necessary for success as well as games and drills to hone your skills to perfection.

Learn to dribble, receive, pass, shoot, head, tackle, and guard the goal with guidance from the National Soccer Coaches Association of America, the top coaches' organization in the United States. Then use the 80 progressively arranged games and drills to practice those skills in competitive situations and small-sided games. The insightful teaching points and effective practice activities will reinforce your execution of the fundamentals and expand your repertoire of techniques and tactics.

Dozens of photographs and diagrams are provided to help you visualize the technical instruction, while the application of each skill is described from both tactical and positional perspectives. More than a drill book, Soccer Skills & Drills is the information-packed resource that will elevate any player's game! ... Read more

Customer Reviews (1)

Good suppoort!
I purchased this book on the heels of completing my "E" coaching license.It's great in explaining proper technique of soccer basics with specific drills to help the youth player develop the right skills.I would also recommend for the coach searching to get a refresher for older players who need help with the basics.If you are just starting out in your soccer coaching career, volunteering to coach your kids team, or a parent who wants to help their child get the right form in the backyard don't hesitate to add this book to the library.It's even more powerful when combined with the DVD f