Play Big: Lessons in Being Limitless from the First Woman to Coach in the NFL

(Hardback)

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Description

When Jen Welter became a linebackers coach for the Arizona Cardinals in 2015, she was the first woman to ever break the glass sideline of the NFL, but it wasn't her first time pioneering as a woman in football: Welter was also the first woman to play running back in a men's professional football league. In Play Big, Welter reveals the grit and determination that it took to be a trailblazer in one of the country's toughest boys' clubs.

With reliability and encouragement, Play Big lays out how she handled the unique pressure of being the only woman in a notoriously sexist environment. By detailing her own strategies for succeeding despite the odds, Welter gives readers the tools they need to do the same, whatever their own obstacles might be.

Drawing on a move that garnered attention during her time with the Cardinals--writing personal motivational notes for each of her linebackers the night before a game--Welter translates simple but effective tips for perseverance and toughness in Play Big.

Reviews

"Every human being has days when they lack confidence and motivation for their dreams. Reading this book is literally having NFL's first female coach cheering you on to get out there and fight for what you deserve. Jen's candid voice, perseverance, and vivid anecdotes will give you the inspiration to tackle anything."
--- Claudia Chan, CEO of S.H.E. Summit & Author of This Is How We Rise
"If you're thinking about taking a road less traveled, then Play Big is the book for you! Dr. Jen Welter does a great job describing what it takes to be a pioneer in sports and how to break down barriers."
--- Warren Moon, Pro Football Hall of Fame Quarterback, 2006
"Jen Welter is a master of change, not only for the NFL but for women in society. I'm proud of everything that she has done to change perception and reality for the Next Generation. Jen is a force and is one of the most qualified people I know on change."
--- Nancy Lieberman, Sacramento Kings Assistant Coach, Basketball Hall of Fame Member

"Play Big serves as inspiration for anyone who wants to shatter tradition. Dr. Jen Welter's journey gives great insight into working in sports and making your dreams a reality."
--- Dave Meltzer, CEO of Sports 1 Marketing, and Bestselling Author

"When I met Jen, I saw the passion in her. Not just in her voice or a particular word she said-in her whole person. It was easily recognizable that the insights and experience were there. Her resume spoke for itself. But her enthusiasm about the game, her expertise, and being able to teach what she knew, I thought was very evident in the first meeting. That's why I hired her. Anyone reading this book will be inspired by her drive and learn from her journey. She has a different perspective on how to teach that extends beyond the field."
--- Bruce Arians, Arizona Cardinals Head Coach

Author Bio

Dr. Jen Welter is the first female to coach in the NFL. In summer 2015, she served as a linebackers' coach for the Arizona Cardinals. She appears regularly as an NFL and sports analyst on NBC, ESPN, and the NFL Network and in national newspapers and other publications. Welter has become a regular empowerment and sports speaker, asked to stump for Hillary Clinton on the election trail in 2016, and sharing the stage at events with sports and political giants like Serena Williams and Condoleeza Rice at events across the country. ESPNW just named her one of the 25 most influential women in sport in 2015. Welter holds a doctorate degree in Psychology, a Master's in Sport Psychology, and a bachelor's degree from Boston College. She has 18 years of experience in fitness and as a professional athlete. Welter is a native of Vero Beach, Florida.