Summary
JOE’S RULES emphasizes the importance of identifying a child’s true genius—the natural talent that every child possesses. Parents will learn that recognizing and unlocking their child’s true genius will pave the way to a lifetime of success. In May 2006, with Joe’s guidance and coaching, seven-year-old Braxton Bilbrey became the youngest person ever to complete the Alcatraz swim through the treacherous waters of San Francisco Bay. Whether a child is actively involved in sports or has never seemed interested in participating, JOE’S RULES builds the case for the powerful and significant role that sports can play in every child’s life. The book explores why every child needs to play sports and why competition is not only healthy, but necessary for a child’s development. While the author recognizes that not every child will step on the Olympic podium or play professional sports, JOE’S RULES explains how children can learn valuable life lessons on the field, on the court or in the pool. Regardless of previous athletic experience or prowess, these lessons, including striving for personal bests and setting goals, can propel children toward achieving their life’s dream. JOE’S RULES identifies common pitfalls in sports parenting and how every child’s life can be improved through sports. It also addresses important questions that parents are faced with when choosing sports programs for their children. What is the appropriate amount of training? What questions should parents ask coaches? What about team dynamics? Are some children better-suited for team sports or individual sports? When is the appropriate time to specialize in a particular sport? Joe has also included valuable chapters on the importance of proper nutrition and solutions to the epidemic of youth sports injuries. Finally, JOE’S RULES includes an essential workbook to guide parents throughout the decision-making process as their children progress through youth sports.
About the Author
Joe Zemaitis Athlete • Coach • Teacher With 16 years of competitive swimming experience and international accolades as a Professional Triathelete, Joe Zemaitis — at age 27 — brings a lifetime of experience in competitive sports to his work in coaching and teaching. Over the past nine years, Joe has built teams of young swimmers who consistently qualify for state, regional and national competitions. In 2006, he coached and mentored a determined young seven-year-old named Braxton Bilbrey to become the youngest swimmer ever to make the swim from Alcatraz to San Francisco. Joe’s mission is to shine a national spotlight on the value of sports in every child’s life. He is a sought-after speaker and program facilitator by schools and organizations. first book, Joe’s Rules, promises to be the first of a Joe’s Rules series dedicated to young people the world over and those who love and support them as they grow to become the leaders and champions of tomorrow.
