Be the Best You Can Be in Sport- A Book for Irish Youth

This book is the perfect tool for any young person who is seeking to be the best they can be in sport, and beyond. It is not sports specific but rather principle based, and is full of invaluable information, inspiration and insights. The author, Paul Kilgannon, has gathered input from over 50 respected coaches and sportstars, coaching academics and sports science professionals, to produce a comprehensive guide for the young sportsperson.



There is no 'correct' age for the reader, but in general terms it is targeted at youths from approximately 13 years and upwards. Similarly, the reader will never be too old for this book. There is a life time of learning for the young sportsperson here.



This is an Irish book, by Irish coaches, for young Irish sportspeople.



Book Testimonials

An exceptional piece of work. For me, the most comprehensive and complete guide for every athlete. This is the bible for sports performance.

Eddie Brennan - 8-time All-Ireland Senior Hurling Medallist with Kilkenny.

A book that is full of information, experiences and insight to help aspiring sportsperson to be 'the best they can be.'

Mick McCarthy - Former Republic of Ireland Football Captain and Manager.

This book is an excellent resource for young sports people and coaches alike. It contains a blend of theory, practical tips and stories which should help make a person's journey more enjoyable and fulfilling.

Rena Buckley - 18-time All- Ireland Senior Medallist with Cork Camogie and Ladies Gaelic Football.

A brilliant insight from so many experts into scenarios that young sportspeople will encounter in their life. A must read book for any aspiring young sportsperson.

Rob Heffernan- World Champion and Olympic Medallist Athlete

This book provides a great insight into human performance from a range of diverse perspectives. You will certainly pick up a number of valuable pieces of information throughout.

Jonny Cooper- 6-time All- Ireland Senior Gaelic Football Medalist with Dublin



Ch 1 The Virtues of Sport

Ch 2 Journaling the Journey

Ch 3 Values and Character

Ch 4 Mindset for Learning

Ch 5 Individual Practice

Ch 6 Application in Training

Ch 7 Performance Analysis

Ch 8 Being a Teammate

Ch 9 Understanding and Communicating with Your Coach

Ch 10 Playing Fair and Communicating with the Referee

Ch 11 Preparing to Perform

Ch 12 Setbacks

Ch 13 Talent Pathways & Professional Sport

Ch 14 Excellence and Commitment

Ch 15 The Maturing Body

Ch 16 Movement Efficiency

Ch 17 The Individual Nature of Strength Training

Ch 18 Sport Specific Speed

Ch 19 Injury and Rehabilitation

Ch 20 Nutrition



Ch 21 Time and Energy Management

Ch 22 Multi Sport Activity

Ch 23 The Student Athlete

Ch 24 Racism in Sport

Ch 25 Women in Sport

Ch 26 Simply Be

Ch 27 Tough Times

Ch 28 The Obstacle is the Way

Ch 29 The End is the Beginning