Sports: What's Your Position?

Nine is the magic number in baseball. It's the number of innings in a standard game and the number of players each team fields when on defense. But every player on the field is different, and this book studies each unique position to explore those differences and the skills needed to play there. From turning double plays at shortstop to throwing off the pitcher's mound, each spot on the diamond has its quirks. Readers learn how catchers help pitchers know what pitch to throw and catch runners stealing second base in this exciting title that puts them on the diamond and in the midst of this exciting game.

Taking the soccer pitch can be intimidating if you're not sure where to go. It's a big field and each position on the "starting 11" has a big responsibility. Whether exploring all the ways a keeper makes saves or how the defense works in front of them, readers will love experiencing the game of soccer in this exciting title. Filled with golden goals and brilliant passes, readers take a deep dive into "the beautiful game" and learn important ways they can succeed with their friends on the pitch.

Lacrosse has elements of other sports in its gameplay, but is a sport all its own. With a rich history and fun pace to the game, it's a growing sport that's easy to start playing. This book explores the exciting and evolving world of field lacrosse, a sport that has many moving parts. From defenders sliding into shooting lanes to the cuts and spins that free attackers for scoring chances, lacrosse is a fast-moving game that's exciting to watch and play. Readers will love experiencing the ins and outs of lacrosse, learning its rules and regulations, and seeing for themselves how each position is important in creating a winning team.

Hockey is a fast and fun game that kids can learn quickly. The concept is simple: put the puck in the net. But beyond that is a world of strategy. When should a defender pinch to keep the puck in the zone? Where should a forward be when back checking? This book explores those questions and explains what hockey players are doing on the ice, from the basics of each position to an advanced look at what makes great players stand out. With colorful photos and graphics explaining each role in detail, readers will see hockey from every angle and be ready to hit the ice themselves and show off their skills.

Basketball is all about putting the ball in the hoop. To do that, though, players need to work together with their teammates. This book puts readers on the hardwood as they parse the different positions that make up a basketball team. From conducting the offense with the point guard to shooting jumpers with the shooting guard, readers get an in-depth study of James Naismith's famous game as they learn how to play with their friends. Whether setting up alley-oops on offense or blocking shots and causing turnovers on defense, this book gets readers ready to play any position on the court.

The game of football has many rules, and each position on the field is different. Whether lining up in the trenches to protect the quarterback or running the ball out of the backfield, the 11 players on each team each have special jobs to do. This book gives readers a look at each position on the gridiron, showing how cornerbacks and safeties cover wide receivers and how linebackers try to sack the quarterback. With a detailed look at each position, readers will be ready to take the field themselves and play America's most popular game with their friends.