Lucas: Between the Posts
A young keeper learns that bravery starts before the whistle.
7 to 14 middle grade sports fiction from the Whitfield Books children's soccer series.
Mentors: Alisson Becker (today's hero) & Gianluigi Buffon (parents' era legend).
The definitive soccer goalkeeper story for kids who need confidence between the posts.
Age range: 7 to 14
Page count: 101
ISBN: 978-1970440089
About the book
Lucas steps into goal and discovers the pressure, the pride, and the power of belief. With support from friends and a steady coach, he finds his voice and his reach. Each chapter doubles as a kids chapter book about courage and friendship, making it a natural fit for classrooms, club libraries, and bedtime match analysis. Two spotlight pros anchor the journey—one current player living the dream today and one hero from parents' generation whose story mirrors the same highs and lows (Alisson Becker and Gianluigi Buffon).
What readers will learn
- How to stay focused under pressure
- How to bounce back after a mistake
- How teamwork builds courage
- How anxious goalkeepers can still play with courage
- How to turn mistakes into better decisions
- How to build confidence one save at a time
Plus: compare a current pro hero with a classic legend from your parents' era (Alisson Becker + Gianluigi Buffon).
This story helped our team talk about nerves before a championship match.Coach MalikU13 coach