Inspiring tale of a Champion Soccer Player

Go for the Goal: a Champion’s Guide to Winning in Soccer and Life is the inspiring autobiography of Mariel Margaret Hamm, whom everyone knows mostly as “Mia,” arguably the best women’s soccer player in the world. In her down-to-earth style and no mincing at words, she gives a vivid account of all that happened with her in all those years she was growing up to be what she was eventually going to be. She is brutally honest in admitting that she is yet to be the greatest player; yet she knows she’ll be one only because everyone was already naming her as one.

Every prospective young soccer player anywhere in the world should take a leaf out of her book by reading closely what she has to say. It communicates directly to them by showing how to face players much older and more skilful than them, how to survive the taunts and trials for a player who is just beginning and yet has a dream of being a fine soccer player. Not only is the book an easy read, it does not blabber much on difficult to understand terms about soccer. A reader with no knowledge of soccer can still be inspired to be one. And there is a glossary at the end of the book clearly illustrating terms on soccer she has used which the reader may not clearly understand. The training tips and drills can be so useful and inspiring to anyone who is not even playing soccer.
One other fact she mentions showed to me why she is such a great champion. She talks of the importance of “teamwork” in playing matches. She is so humble and down-to-earth in knowing and realizing about this quality. For it is teamwork alone that can win matches, be it any sport. And she admits it openly.
“Goal” is an inspiring tale of a super soccer player and great human being. I would strongly recommend everyone to read it. “Mia Hamm” is an institution by herself and I salute her for her contribution.