"This well-written volume is required reading for anyone involved with youth in broad educational settings as well as in the context of physical education... Highly recommended." - CHOICE

"This is a must read for anyone interested in enhancing positive youth development through sport and physical activity involvement . . .Its powerful and empowering approach helps youngsters realize that by becoming caring and compassionate leaders they can highly impact the lives of others." - Daniel Gould, Professor, College of Education, and Director, Youth Sports Institute, Department of Kinesiology, Michigan State University

"This book challenges you to reflect on values, beliefs, and your true purpose for working with kids, while providing guidance for those of us who trust that all youth are capable of taking on leadership roles, and that holistic growth can be achieved when youth are empowered to lead." - Frank Giosa, Health and Physical Education Director, West 40 Regional Safe School - Middle School, Chicago, IL

"Twenty-first century professionals in physical activity and sport are looking for guidance away from dysfunctional media-driven sport models, and toward approaches that are more child and youth centered. Martinek and Hellison are names we trust - they know kids . . .Their explanations are clear and down to earth, and their strategies are practical and ready to go." - Sarah Doolittle, Associate Professor, Department of Health Studies, Physical Education and Human Performance Science, Adelphi University