You'll Win Nothing with Kids

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A fantastic read - Rated
I was briefly tempted to give this book only 4 stars because, in order to really, really appreciate where it is coming from, I think you also need to be a football dad and that seems a bit limiting. But, on reflection, that's harsh given that it is probably only football dads who would buy the book anyway.

If you are a football dad, however, you should definitely hit it off with the book and the story. The full range of characters is there: the officious ref ("the prat in black") who can make even the most even-tempered middle class parent lose his cool, the desperate dad, the obnoxious, pushy mum who doesn't mind who she upsets as long as her (presumably) putrid offspring gets more gametime, the dedicated / obsessive chairman, the good players and the not-so-good, the early bloomer who hasn't quite fuflfilled that esrly potential (although in this case "Lee" does seem to have been unfairly struck with injuries).

You'll probably also recognise a lot of the settings: the fight between parents, dog sh*te on the pitch, aggrieved locals etc etc. I was particularly taken with the description of parents "settling in for the long haul" at the start of a tournament day.

It jusy goes to show that what we see at our kids' football is probably universal. Having said that, I don't think I've ever seen any same sex partners watching the footy in my neck of the woods!

It's not just about the football - Rated
I loved this book, the on-going story of a man managing a junior football team is intertwined around his feelings about his son growing up and the effect this has on their relationship. I thought there was a great mix of humour, intersting insights from ex-players and just a tiny hint of melancholy.

Loved it - Rated
I coach under 12s, including my son of course, and found it very reassuring and funny to read so many things I went through.
Excellent message for some coaches and parents who may have lost the plot about why kids play football

Must read for any kids football manager! - Rated
Yes, you! The one that stood still while the other dad's (mum's?) took a step backwards! Or was that a leap!

Having been drawn into the game in the same way as Jim (aren't we all?), and with no previous footballing experience, I can say his observations and comments are spot on. Jim's book captures the bitter-sweet experience of managing a team, and it is a good laugh to boot!

You'll Win Nothing with Kids: Fathers, Sons and Football - Rated
A wonderful book. So funny you will laugh out loud, accurate to the point of seeing yourself in many of the pages, so moving in places that you will consider what you say next time your lad takes puts on his boots. Brilliant.