20 Best Student Athletes Books

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The QB: The Making of Modern Quarterbacks

by Bruce Feldman

The QB: The Making of Modern Quarterbacks by Bruce Feldman is a captivating book about student athletes that delves into the intense world of college football quarterbacks. Feldman, a renowned sports journalist, provides a behind-the-scenes look at the training, mental toughness, and high-stakes pressure that student athletes face as they strive to become successful quarterbacks. The book offers a fascinating exploration of the evolution of the quarterback position and the strategies and techniques that have transformed it into a key component of modern football.

Through in-depth interviews and meticulous research, Feldman presents a compelling narrative that sheds light on the dedication and sacrifices required of these student athletes as they navigate the demanding expectations of the game. The QB is a must-read for football enthusiasts, coaches, and anyone interested in the journey of aspiring athletes as they strive for greatness. With its insightful analysis and gripping storytelling, this book on student athletes offers a unique perspective on the world of college football and the remarkable individuals who shape it.

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The Boys in the Boat: Nine Americans and Their Epic Quest for Gold at the 1936 Berlin Olympics

by Daniel James Brown

The Boys in the Boat is an exhilarating tale of determination and triumph, set against the backdrop of the Great Depression and the rise of Nazi Germany. This gripping narrative follows the journey of a group of young men, whose humble beginnings and unyielding perseverance lead them to the ultimate challenge: the 1936 Berlin Olympics. Daniel James Brown‘s masterful storytelling brings to life the trials and triumphs of these student athletes as they strive for gold on the world stage. With vivid prose and meticulous research, the author skillfully captures the spirit of teamwork, resilience, and the indomitable human spirit. This book about student athletes will inspire and captivate readers with its compelling and unforgettable true story of courage, teamwork, and the pursuit of excellence.

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The Mamba Mentality: How I Play

by Kobe Bryant

The Mamba Mentality: How I Play is a captivating book on student athletes that provides a unique insight into the mind of one of basketball’s greatest players, Kobe Bryant. In this book about student athletes, Bryant shares his personal philosophy on how he approached the game, offering valuable lessons that go beyond the basketball court. Through a series of interviews, anecdotes, and stunning photographs, Bryant delves into the mental and physical preparation, as well as the relentless drive and determination, that made him a legendary athlete.

Readers will gain a deep understanding of the mindset and work ethic that propelled Bryant to greatness, and learn how to apply these principles to their own lives, whether it’s on the court, in the classroom, or in the workplace. The Mamba Mentality is a must-read for anyone looking to unlock their full potential and achieve their goals, making it an essential addition to the library of any student athletes, sports enthusiasts, or anyone striving for excellence.

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The Secret Game: A Wartime Story of Courage, Change, and Basketball’s Lost Triumph

by Scott Ellsworth

The Secret Game: A Wartime Story of Courage, Change, and Basketball’s Lost Triumph by Scott Ellsworth is a captivating account of a little-known basketball game that took place during the height of segregation in the United States. This book delves into the lives of the players, who were African American and white student athletes, and the challenges they faced in a racially divided society. The game itself was played in secret, breaking the color barrier in the sport, and serving as a powerful symbol of courage and change.

Ellsworth’s meticulous research and compelling storytelling bring to life this remarkable moment in history, shedding light on the courage and determination of the student athletes who defied societal norms to come together on the basketball court. The Secret Game is a must-read for anyone interested in the history of racial segregation and the role of sports in breaking down barriers. This book about student athletes will leave readers inspired by the resilience and triumph of these young men who made history through their love of the game.

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The Matheny Manifesto: A Young Manager’s Old-School Views on Success in Sports and Life

by Mike Matheny

The Matheny Manifesto, written by former professional baseball player and current manager Mike Matheny, is a compelling book about student athletes and their development both on and off the field. Matheny shares his old-school approach to success, emphasizing the importance of character, discipline, and teamwork. The book offers valuable insights into the challenges and opportunities faced by young athletes, as well as practical advice for coaches and parents on how to support and guide them. Matheny’s experience as a player and a manager shines through in his candid and relatable storytelling, making this book a must-read for anyone involved in youth sports. Whether you’re a coach, a parent, or a student athlete, this book about student athletes will leave you feeling inspired and empowered to pursue success in sports and in life.

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The Last Shot: City Streets, Basketball Dreams

by Darcy Frey

The Last Shot: City Streets, Basketball Dreams by Darcy Frey is a captivating book about student athletes that delves into the lives of inner-city teens in Coney Island, Brooklyn, who dream of making it big in the world of basketball. Frey follows four talented high school basketball players as they navigate the challenges of growing up in a tough neighborhood while pursuing their dreams of playing college ball and beyond.

Through intimate interviews and vivid storytelling, Frey provides a raw and honest portrayal of the realities faced by these young athletes, capturing their struggles, triumphs, and the harsh realities of their environment. The book offers a poignant exploration of the complexities of race, class, and the American dream, and sheds light on the high-stakes world of college basketball recruitment.

The Last Shot is a poignant and thought-provoking book on student athletes that offers a powerful glimpse into the lives of these determined individuals, their families, and the communities that shape them.

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The Miracle of St. Anthony: A Season with Coach Bob Hurley and Basketball’s Most Improbable Dynasty

by Adrian Wojnarowski

The Miracle of St. Anthony: A Season with Coach Bob Hurley and Basketball’s Most Improbable Dynasty by Adrian Wojnarowski is a gripping account of the legendary high school basketball team, St. Anthony High School, and their esteemed coach Bob Hurley. This book provides an intimate look at the lives of the players, their struggles and triumphs, both on and off the court. Through Wojnarowski’s vivid storytelling, readers are immersed in the world of these young athletes as they navigate the challenges of growing up in inner-city Jersey City while striving for success in basketball. The book offers a compelling narrative of resilience, determination, and the power of mentorship, making it a must-read for anyone interested in the lives of student athletes and the impact of sports on their development. With its raw and emotional portrayal of the team’s journey, The Miracle of St. Anthony is a captivating and inspiring read for fans of sports and human triumph.

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The Blind Side: Evolution of a Game

by Michael Lewis

The Blind Side: Evolution of a Game by Michael Lewis is a captivating and insightful book about student athletes that tells the remarkable true story of Michael Oher, a young man who overcame incredible odds to become an NFL star. Through Oher’s journey, the book explores the challenges and opportunities that student athletes face, shedding light on the complex world of college football recruitment and the impact of race and class on the lives of young athletes.

Michael Lewis delves into the evolution of the game of football, examining the pivotal role of left tackles and the strategic decisions that transformed the sport. The book provides a compelling blend of personal narrative and in-depth analysis, offering a powerful exploration of the intersection of sports, education, and social justice. With its gripping storytelling and thought-provoking themes, The Blind Side is a must-read for anyone interested in the world of student athletes and the transformative power of sports.

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The Game: Harvard, Yale, and America in 1968

by George Howe Colt

The Game: Harvard, Yale, and America in 1968 by George Howe Colt is a captivating book on student athletes that delves into the tumultuous year of 1968 through the lens of the legendary Harvard-Yale football game. Colt skillfully weaves together the stories of the players, coaches, and students against the backdrop of a nation in the midst of social and political upheaval. The book offers a compelling look at the lives of the student athletes as they grapple with the pressures of academics, athletics, and the larger societal issues of the time.

Through meticulous research and vivid storytelling, Colt brings to life the intense rivalry between the two Ivy League schools and the impact of the game on the young men who participated. The Game is not just a book about student athletes; it is a powerful exploration of a pivotal moment in American history, offering a nuanced portrayal of the complexities and challenges faced by these individuals both on and off the field. Colt’s narrative is engaging, insightful, and thought-provoking, making this a must-read for anyone interested in sports, history, or the human experience.

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The Boys of Winter: The Untold Story of a Coach, a Dream, and the 1980 U.S. Olympic Hockey Team

by Wayne Coffey

The Boys of Winter by Wayne Coffey is an inspiring book about a group of young men who came together to form the 1980 U.S. Olympic hockey team. This gripping story follows the team’s journey from their humble beginnings to their epic victory over the powerful Soviet Union team in the “Miracle on Ice” game. Coffey provides a compelling look at the team’s coach, Herb Brooks, and his unorthodox methods that ultimately led to their success.

Through Coffey’s vivid and detailed storytelling, readers are immersed in the world of these dedicated athletes, experiencing their trials and triumphs as they strive for Olympic gold. The book captures the essence of teamwork, determination, and the unyielding spirit of these young competitors. The Boys of Winter is not just a book about student athletes, it is a testament to the power of perseverance and belief in the face of overwhelming odds. It is a must-read for anyone who appreciates a good underdog story and the indomitable human spirit.

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The Breaks of the Game

by David Halberstam

The Breaks of the Game by David Halberstam is a captivating and insightful book about student athletes. It takes readers inside the world of professional basketball, providing a behind-the-scenes look at the Portland Trail Blazers during the 1979-1980 NBA season. Halberstam’s writing is rich with detail and emotion, as he delves into the lives of the players, coaches, and staff, exploring the highs and lows of their careers both on and off the court.

Through in-depth interviews and firsthand observation, Halberstam paints a vivid picture of the pressures and challenges faced by these student athletes, and the impact of the game on their personal lives. The book offers a compelling exploration of the intersection of sports, race, and culture, making it a must-read for basketball enthusiasts and anyone interested in the human stories behind the game. The Breaks of the Game is a gripping and thought-provoking read that shines a light on the complexities of professional sports and the individuals who dedicate their lives to it.

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The System: The Glory and Scandal of Big-Time College Football

by Jeff Benedict and Armen Keteyian

The System: The Glory and Scandal of Big-Time College Football by Jeff Benedict and Armen Keteyian is a compelling expose on the world of college football, shedding light on the complex and often controversial system that governs the sport. The authors delve into the high-stakes world of college football, exploring the incredible pressure and scrutiny faced by student athletes as they navigate the competitive landscape of big-time college sports.

This book offers a deep and revealing look at the inner workings of college football, from the intense recruitment process to the multi-million dollar deals and scandals that often plague the sport. Benedict and Keteyian provide an in-depth analysis of the challenges and triumphs experienced by these young players, offering a thought-provoking examination of the intersection between athletics, academics, and big business.

The System is a must-read for anyone interested in the world of college football and the complex dynamics that shape the lives of student athletes.

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The Captain Class: The Hidden Force That Creates the World’s Greatest Teams

by Sam Walker

The Captain Class by Sam Walker is a fascinating exploration of what truly makes a team great. In this book on student athletes, Walker delves into the world of sports to uncover the hidden force behind the world’s greatest teams. By analyzing the most successful sports teams in history, Walker identifies a common trait among them: the presence of a particular type of leader – the captain. Through engaging storytelling and meticulous research, the author identifies the seven key traits that these exceptional leaders possess and how they have been instrumental in transforming their teams into champions. Walker’s insights are not only relevant to sports but can also be applied to various aspects of leadership and teamwork in other fields. Whether you’re a coach, a player, or a fan, this book about student athletes is a must-read for anyone seeking to understand the dynamics of successful teams and the crucial role played by their leaders.

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The Sports Gene: Inside the Science of Extraordinary Athletic Performance

by David Epstein

The Sports Gene: Inside the Science of Extraordinary Athletic Performance by David Epstein is a fascinating exploration of the genetic and environmental factors that contribute to athletic prowess. Epstein delves into the world of elite athletes, examining the role that genetics, training, and other variables play in their exceptional abilities. Through engaging storytelling and in-depth research, the book offers insights into the nature versus nurture debate, challenging conventional beliefs about talent and hard work in sports. Epstein’s exploration of the genetic advantages that some athletes possess sheds light on the complex interplay between biology and achievement. Whether you’re a sports enthusiast, coach, or simply curious about the science behind extraordinary athletic performance, this book provides a thought-provoking and informative read. It’s an essential addition to the library of anyone interested in understanding what makes some individuals excel in sports.

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The Perfect Pass: American Genius and the Reinvention of Football

by S.C. Gwynne

The Perfect Pass: American Genius and the Reinvention of Football by S.C. Gwynne is a captivating exploration of how a group of innovative coaches and student athletes changed the game of football forever. Gwynne delves into the story of how Hal Mumme and Mike Leach, two unorthodox thinkers, revolutionized the sport by implementing the “Air Raid” offense, a passing-focused strategy that defied traditional football wisdom.

The book provides a fascinating look at the intersection of sports, innovation, and strategy, and offers insights into the impact of these changes on the game of football. Gwynne skillfully weaves together the personal stories of the coaches and players, the evolution of the game, and the broader cultural and technological shifts that influenced their approach.

Through meticulous research and engaging storytelling, The Perfect Pass is a must-read for anyone interested in football, sports history, or the dynamics of success and innovation. It is a compelling and inspiring tale of how a small group of individuals challenged the status quo and forever changed the way football is played.

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The Boys in the Cave: Deep Inside the Impossible Rescue in Thailand

by Matt Gutman

The Boys in the Cave: Deep Inside the Impossible Rescue in Thailand by Matt Gutman is a gripping and heart-pounding account of the dramatic rescue of a youth soccer team and their coach from a flooded cave in Thailand. This book sheds light on the incredible story of survival, courage, and the unwavering human spirit in the face of extreme adversity.

Gutman takes readers deep inside the harrowing ordeal, detailing the team’s treacherous journey into the cave and the race against time to save them. The book provides a fascinating insight into the resilience and determination of the young athletes, as well as the heroic efforts of the divers and rescue teams who risked their lives to bring them to safety.

With vivid storytelling and meticulous research, Gutman delivers a captivating narrative that will keep readers on the edge of their seats. The Boys in the Cave is a remarkable testament to the power of teamwork, perseverance, and the unbreakable bond of camaraderie, making it a must-read for anyone interested in stories of triumph and survival.

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Friday Night Lights: A Town, a Team, and a Dream

by H. G. Bissinger

Friday Night Lights: A Town, a Team, and a Dream by H. G. Bissinger is a riveting non-fiction book that delves into the world of high school football in the small town of Odessa, Texas. The book provides an in-depth look at the lives of the players, coaches, and residents of Odessa, as they become deeply invested in the success of the Permian High School Panthers football team. Through vivid storytelling, Bissinger takes readers on a journey through the intense pressure, hopes, and dreams of the young athletes and the community that supports them.

This book is a poignant exploration of the challenges and triumphs faced by student athletes, and it offers a compelling insight into the impact of high school sports on a town’s identity and spirit. Bissinger’s powerful narrative captures the raw emotions and high stakes involved in the pursuit of athletic excellence, making it a must-read for anyone interested in the world of high school sports or the human experience.

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The Short and Tragic Life of Robert Peace

by Jeff Hobbs

The Short and Tragic Life of Robert Peace by Jeff Hobbs is a poignant and gripping nonfiction narrative that delves into the life of a young man who embodied the complexities of the American dream. This compelling book on student athletes follows the life of Robert Peace, a brilliant student and talented athlete from a rough neighborhood in Newark, New Jersey. Despite facing numerous obstacles, including poverty and violence, Peace manages to secure a scholarship to Yale University, where he excels academically and athletically. However, his struggles with his past, identity, and the challenges of navigating two vastly different worlds take a toll on him, leading to a heartbreaking and tragic end. Through meticulous research and personal insights, Hobbs paints a vivid and intimate portrait of Peace, exploring themes of race, class, and the pursuit of success. This book about student athletes is a thought-provoking and deeply moving exploration of the human experience and the complexities of achieving one’s full potential.

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Outcasts United: An American Town, a Refugee Team, and One Woman’s Quest to Make a Difference

by Warren St. John

Outcasts United by Warren St. John is a compelling book about a small American town, a group of refugees, and the remarkable woman who brings them together through soccer. The book follows the story of Luma Mufleh, a Jordanian woman who founded the Fugees, a soccer team composed of refugee boys from war-torn countries around the world. As the team faces the challenges of adapting to a new culture and overcoming the trauma of their past, Mufleh becomes a mentor and advocate for the young players, using the power of sports to help them find a sense of belonging and purpose in their new home.

Through vivid storytelling and in-depth research, Outcasts United explores the resilience and determination of these young athletes as they navigate the complexities of American society. The book sheds light on the struggles and triumphs of refugees, offering a powerful and inspiring account of the impact of sports on the lives of marginalized communities. Outcasts United is a must-read for anyone interested in the transformative power of sports and the resilience of the human spirit.

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Unstoppable: My Life So Far

by Maria Sharapova

Unstoppable: My Life So Far is a memoir by Maria Sharapova, a renowned tennis player and businesswoman. In this inspiring book on student athletes, Sharapova shares her remarkable journey from a young girl in Russia with big dreams to becoming a world-famous tennis champion. She opens up about the challenges she faced, the sacrifices she made, and the relentless determination that propelled her to the top of her sport.

Sharapova’s story is not just a typical book about student athletes; it’s a powerful testament to the resilience and tenacity required to succeed in the competitive world of professional sports. She discusses her victories and defeats, her struggles with injuries and setbacks, and the unwavering passion that kept her going through it all.

Unstoppable is a must-read for anyone looking for inspiration, motivation, and insight into the life of a dedicated athlete. Sharapova’s honesty and vulnerability make this book about student athletes a compelling and captivating read that will resonate with readers from all walks of life.