When your child begins to get interested in sports, it can be a daunting task to know how to get started and what to look for in an organization and coach. With thirty-eight years of experience in youth sports, coach John A. DeAngelo’s guide will help parents think about the right age for their children to get involved, what sports to try, and how to keep a strong school-sports balance. DeAngelo also gives insight on whether travel leagues are right for your child and whether you should coach your child’s teams.

If you’re a parent getting involved in youth sports for the first time or know a parent who is, this guide will be indispensable.

About the Author

John A. DeAngelo was born and raised in Brooklyn, New York, and still lives in the house he grew up in. He began coaching youth sports in 1980 as a junior in high school, helping out with an in-house league at his parish. When he started, the team was 0-4. The team won its next five games and he realized the players were listening to him. Forty years later, he is still coaching and enjoying it.