More than a guidebook. It's a coaching companion for young soccer players!
Today’s young players face more pressure, comparison, and distraction than ever before. YOU Are More Than... A Soccer Player helps them rise above it — building real confidence, focus, and character through coaching points, mindset tips, and positive habits they can apply to their practices and games. Down-to-earth, encouraging, and full of heart, it’s a coach-in-a-book that reminds kids their worth isn’t measured in stats, scores, or likes — it’s already inside them. And yes… there’s a little swagger in there too, just waiting to show up.
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Inspiring them to be their best... on & off the field!
Every page of YOU Are More Than a Soccer Player is built to spark something and build the kind of qualities that make soccer players even better people. Split into three sections that focus on the body, mind, and spirit, this 160 page coaching companion nurtures the 'whole' person. It’s full of coaching tips, short bursts of wisdom, and reflection moments kids can connect with. There's even motivational video messages from Coach Paul. Think of it as a mix between a guidebook, a journal, and a pep talk from a coach.
The coach behind the confidence...
Paul Burgess was born in Bolton, England. As a national track athlete and youth soccer player with professional clubs, Paul once dreamed of going all the way. Injury and illness cut that path short, but what felt like a setback became a turning point. The detour led him into coaching with a passion for inspiring young people grow in confidence, character, and resilience. Paul believes every child should know they are more than their stats, results, or 'likes.' And it's who, not what, they are that matters.
Now based in Lake Charles, Louisiana, Paul has spent over 20 years coaching and serving young people as Director of Calcasieu Soccer Club and founder of SOZO Coaching — a program that blends physical, mental, and spiritual well-being. He also serves in youth and college ministry within the Episcopal Church and is preparing for ordination as a Deacon in 2026.
On the field or off it, Paul’s heart is the same: to help the next generation grow with confidence, gratitude, humility, and joy — in sport and in life.
What parents are saying...
Coach Paul genuinely cares about his players as individuals, helping them build confidence, resilience, and a lifelong love for the game. He is more than a coach — he is a mentor and role model. This book is like having him be your side! — Casey B.
Coach Paul and SOZO Coaching have not only nurtured my child’s love for soccer — he’s helped them believe in themselves. Watching their confidence grow alongside their skills has been such a gift. We all look forward to SOZO days.
- Jessica D.
Paul invests in the whole child — mentally, emotionally, and spiritually — not just the athlete. I’ve watched my children grow in confidence, discipline, and resilience through his coaching. The values he instills go far beyond the field, and I’m incredibly thankful for the lasting impact on our family.
- Haley T.
Paul and SOZO Coaching have been a blessing to our family. So many coaches focus only on skills, but Paul focuses on the person behind the ball. The coaching our kids receive prepares them not just for soccer, but for life.
- Alexander & Linsey V.
Buy the Book & Gear Up!
Because the game is better when kids believe in themselves.
Reach out to learn more about how Paul and SOZO Coaching can help your child or team become unshakable.