"Ted's book captures all the topics we hope, as coaches, our players eventually master.  It's been a privilege to work with Coach Ted.  He has approached writing this book with the same detail, caring, respect and humor that he does working with his players.  A must read for players and parents alike!"

-Steve Slaughter, Board of Directors

WHO IS TED UPSON?

Ted has been coaching with Blue Ridge United for over 12 years. He's coached boys and girls recreational and travel teams from U6 through U19. An engineer by profession, the combination of his analytical approach to the game and his ability to relate to young players have enabled him to write a book that is both informative and enjoyable to read.

TED'S STORY:

"A few years ago, the 2006 girls and 2008 boys teams I was coaching were about to enter high school. I knew the local high school coaches, and I wanted to be sure I sent them quality players. I didn’t care so much if my players were the fastest or best skilled, but I did want them to be soccer-smart and have a good grasp of the game. To that end, I put together a list of things I thought they should know before high school – a review of what I, and other coaches, had taught them over the years. In the seasons that followed, I added to my review topics until those initial 23 things grew to almost 50 chapters. Along the way, some of my fellow coaches encouraged me to publish my packet as a real book, which I eventually did (with lots of review and critique help from Blue Ridge coaches, parents, and friends.). The main reason I decided to publish was that I determined it would be easier for me to print copies through Amazon than it would be to keep running out of printer ink at home. I just wanted - and still do - to help our local players."

"Coach Ted Upson has put together a collection of fundamental soccer concepts that every player should know. If you’re a soccer player, you NEED to read this book! It’s full of insightful information that every player can use to refresh their tactical knowledge, or learn important concepts that they may have missed along their soccer journey. This book is an easy read that any player who wants to improve their game will find tough to put down. As a coach of several soccer teams (from the ages of 10-19) it’s required reading for my players. Coaches, this is a great tool to train up your players and a reminder of all the vital concepts that your players need to know. Take the time to read it and then read it again. It’s incredible!" 

-Donavan Russell, 2013 Boys Coach