Coaching Girls' Soccer Successfully PDF

Build a winning girls' soccer program, on the field and off. In Coaching Girls' Soccer Successfully, one of the nation's top high school coaches, Debra LaPrath, shares her expertise on all aspects of coaching. From establishing a coaching philosophy to making decisions during a game, this is the approach that has made her program a perennial powerhouse.

Coaching Girls' Soccer Successfully covers every aspect of the coach's role:

-Developing and perfecting skills

-Evaluating players and defining their roles

-Organizing productive practices

-Scouting and preparing for games

-Adding variety to training

-Developing leadership qualities

-Motivating the team

-Communicating on and off the field
Featuring seasonal training plans, drills for developing fundamental to advanced skills, and advice for handling off-the-field challenges, Coaching Girls' Soccer Successfully is the most comprehensive resource available for novice and experienced coaches alike.

Debra LaPrath has been head coach at California's Maria Carrillo High School since 1996. She has led MCHS to six consecutive North Coast Section finals and won back-to-back championships in 2001 and 2002.

LaPrath earned North Coast Section Coach of the Year honors in 2004, along with various conference and media Coach of the Year honors in 1998, 1999, 2000, 2001, and 2002. She is a member of the National Soccer Coaches Association of America; the California Association of Health, Physical Education, Recreation and Dance; and the National Education Association.

LaPrath grew up in San Diego playing for the San Diego Surf Soccer Club and moved to Sonoma County to play Soccer for Sonoma State University. She has coached for more than 18 years. In addition to her on-field success, LaPrath uses a variety of fund-raising, team-building, and community service projects to give her athletes a well-rounded experience and create a program that is greater than any one achievement. LaPrath believes it's most important to focus on helping to raise confident, happy young women. She lives in Rohnert Park, California.

"Coaching Girls' Soccer Successfully is an excellent resource for soccer coaches of all levels. LaPrath transforms years of experience as an extraordinary coach into an invaluable tool for developing winning teams both on and off the soccer field."

Kelli Robinson
President of Fearless Soccer and Fitness
Former Professional Soccer Player

"Debra's coaching techniques made me a better player, a more complete athlete, and ultimately a more confident woman. For motivational tips, coaching guidelines, and specific strategies for working with female soccer players, this book is a must-read!"

Melissa Matulich
NCAA Division I Soccer (2003-2007)
2007 Wally Bell Award Winner

"Debra is the inspirational player every team wanted. Her enthusiasm, work ethic, and spirit were always a source of motivation at trainings. People simply wanted to be on her team. She brings nothing less to Coaching Girls' Soccer Successfully . Her approach to teaching and knowledge of the fundamentals make individuals and teams improve. But what LaPrath really excels at are the off-the-field aspects of team unity, player development, leadership, and communication that consistently build a successful program.

Kim T. Sutton
Women's head soccer coach
Chico State University