Peak Performance for Soccer

In this book, over 40 of the world’s leading practitioners working in elite soccer― over 6 continents―share advanced knowledge of the environment as well as a scientific understanding of the game and players. This book explores those traits at an intricate level through shared experiences of some of the best performance coaches working in elite soccer. The content in this book is derived from practical and evidence-based concepts that have been applied at the elite level.

Uncovering the coaching strategies as well as contemporary issues in elite soccer, this comprehensive textbook illustrates what it takes to thrive as a performance coach at the top level. Collaborating with the industry leaders in soccer, the chapters address a myriad of topics such as:

• the multiple roles and responsibilities;

• youth development;

• strength and conditioning application;

• nutrition and recovery strategies;

• tracking and monitoring fitness and fatigue;

• powerful communication methods and staff cohesion; and

• return to play and injury prevention strategies

Peak Performance for Soccer is essential reading for all coaches and practitioners, at any level, who work in soccer.

Alex Calder is the head of sports science with the Houston Dynamo, competing in Major League Soccer (MLS). He is an accredited level 3 elite coach with the Australian Strength and Conditioning Association (ASCA), as well as holding accreditations through the National Strength and Conditioning Association (NSCA) and Collegiate Strength and Conditioning Coaches Association (CSCCa).

Adam Centofanti is currently the head of fitness for the Seattle Sounders FC, having previously served as the head of academy strength and conditioning for Houston Dynamo FC. Formally with Melbourne City FC, Adam held various roles with the club including conditioning coach/sports scientist in the academy sector as well as overseeing the women’s performance program, achieving multiple championships.

Alex Calder is the Head of Sports Science with Houston Dynamo, competing in the Major League Soccer (MLS). He is an accredited Level 3-Elite Coach with the Australian Strength and Conditioning Association (ASCA), as well as holding accreditations through the National Strength and Conditioning Association (NSCA) and Collegiate Strength and Conditioning Coaches Association (CSCCa). Having worked in a variety of sports, he has coached at different levels of competition worldwide for the past decade. He has published several articles in relation to physical preparation and analysis.

Adam Centofanti is currently the Head of Fitness for the Seattle Sounders FC, having previously served as the Head of Academy Strength & Conditioning for Houston Dynamo FC. Formally with Melbourne City FC, Adam held various roles with the club including conditioning coach/sports scientist in the academy sector as well as overseeing the women’s performance program, achieving multiple championships. He currently holds a Masters in Sports Science (Football Performance) and an Undergraduate Degree in Sports Science. Adam is accredited as a Level 2 Coach by the Australian Strength and Conditioning Association (ASCA) and as a Sport Scientist by Exercise & Sport Science Australia (ESSA). Additionally, Adam also holds a B-License for coaching with the Football Federation Australia (FFA).