World Class Coaching. 2012. - 121 p.This book began with a suggestion from World Class Coaching President Mike Saif, who opined that it would be a timely topic given FC Barcelona’s ongoing run through both Spain and Europe during the Guardiola era. Mike has also been instrumental in providing research video and critical feedback regarding the theme and direction of the project. Thus heartfelt thanks to both Mike and also editor Tom Mura, whose assistance with the refinement of the work is always timely and patient.
Special thanks to coaching legend Jeff Tipping for taking time out of his busy schedule to write the Foreword. Coach Tipping has been instrumental and inspirational to my development as a coach and his ideas and teachings are part of the foundation of my understanding of the game.
Thanks, as well, to Wayne Harrison, whose excellent coaching books set a terrific standard and whose encouragement prompted me to start writing coaching books in 2009. Ian Barker kindly took out time from his busy schedule to review, recommend a couple key revisions and also recommend the book and I am indebted to him for his assistance. A thank you to my current St. Croix Academy girls team for their inspiration through their commitment to each other and their team. They are a tremendous soccer team and a great group of young women.
Thanks also to coaching colleagues and friends Nathan Klonecki, Mike Huber, Jeff Dennehy, Andy Coutts, Russell Schouweiler, Chris Garcia-Pratts, Matt Carlson, Allie Byron, Brooke Hesse, Mike Kelleher, Joaquin Izquierdo and Phil Walczak, each of whom provide inspiration, ideas and a sense of humor that makes coaching more enjoyable every day.
With each project and day, I develop a greater sense of debt to my parents, Tony and Carole Englund, for their investment in me and their continued support in coaching and in life in general. Finally, special thanks to Beth, Jake and Tess for their interest in and support of all of my coaching endeavors, and for helping make my life so much more.
