Michael A. Messner is Professor of Sociology and Gender Studies at the University of Southern California and the author of several books including Taking the Field: Women, Men, and Sports.

"Amazing... A heartfelt, perceptive, and thoroughly enjoyable study." Choice "This book is a treat." -- Howard P. Chudacoff American Studies Journal "Messner's engaging writing style draws the reader into the fine details of what he observes." Men & Masculinities

• Illustrations Preface Acknowledgments 1. "It's All for the Kids": Gender, Families, and Youth Sports 2. "Looking for a Team Mom": Separating the Men from the Moms 3. "We Don't Like Chick Coaches": Women at the Helm 4. "You Don't Have to be a Drill Sergeant": Men at the Helm 5. "They're Different-and They're Born Different": Engendering the Kids 6. "It's a Safe and Fun Place for Kids": Youth Sports, Families, and the Good Community Appendix 1. Demographic Description of Interview Subjects Appendix 2. Racial/Ethnic Composition of South Pasadena LLB/S and AYSO Coaches and of the City of South Pasadena Appendix 3. Proportion of AYSO and LLB/S Women Head Coaches in Communities Surrounding South Pasadena Appendix 4. In the Field Notes References Index