Even to the casual viewer, the organization under the surface mayhem of football is apparent. The game relies heavily on scripting and choreography, unlike constantly flowing games such as soccer, hockey and basketball. As such, for football especially, "coaching requires a thorough understanding of a body of knowledge," writes former Oakland Raiders head coach Tom Flores in "Coaching Football: From Youth Leagues to the Pros." Thus former NFL assistant and football author Tom Bass underscores the importance for players as well as coaches of "updating your own professional football library."
'Football Skills & Drills'
Bass's "Football Skills & Drills," published by Human Kinetics in 2004, stresses that although football is a team sport, "every player is involved in an individual battle." These battles on the field decide the result of the play and the ultimate victor. Drills during practice help players win their contests, so Bass provides photos and diagrams for skills practices at each position, from quarterback to special teams. The information can prove equally valuable to players and coaches. Bass's earlier title, "Play Football the NFL Way," in print since 1990 and published by St. Martin's Press, provides similar detailed descriptions of skills goals and drills by position.
'Play Football Like a Pro'
This little 32-page book is aimed at youth players aged 9 to 12. Capstone Press bought out "Play Football Like a Pro" in 2010 under the "Sports Illustrated Kids" series label. Attractive graphics-rich layouts walk the young footballer through how to take a clean snap, how to complete a pass and how to hang onto the ball. For example, "How to Run Routes" clearly color-codes how to run the post, the out, a curl, the slant and fly routes. Fans of the Steelers, Bears, Redskins, Saints and other teams will find crisp photos of their favorite players used to illustrate concepts.
'Football for Dummies'
Oakland Raiders Hall of Famer Howie Long, now perhaps better known as an analyst for Fox, worked with football consultant John Czarnecki to come up with "Football for Dummies," third edition, released in June 2007 by Wiley, with a fourth edition scheduled for July 2011. Long provides 30 pages on rules, as well as sections on offensive and defensive play, information on special teams and the mental game. The book may a better choice for self-acknowledged dummies -- Long enthusiastically explains most aspects of football in terms that neophytes can understand and includes an extensive glossary of football terms. But the coaching and playing tips may help a new or young player grasp football principles.
'Game Day' Series
Also aimed at readers aged 9 to 12, the "Game Day" series by Gareth Stevens Publishing cover positions such as "Receivers" in 48-page books covering the evolution of the position, legendary players and 16 pages of skills suggestions, including how to read the defense and catching techniques. Titles include also include "Quarterbacks," "Running Backs," "Defensive Backs," "Linebackers" and "Linemen."
References
- "Coaching Football: From Youth Leagues to the Pros"; Tom Flores et al.; 2005
- USA Football; Let's Talk Football: The Path to Becoming a Coach; Tom Bass; July 7, 2009
- "Play Football the NFL Way"; Tom Bass; 1991
- "Football For Dummies"; Howie Long et al., 2007
- "Play Football Like a Pro: Key Skills and Tips"; Matt Doeden; 2010
- "Receivers"; Jim Gigliotti; 2009
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