Xavier: The Heart of the Team
The captain learns that real leadership starts with listening.
7 to 14 middle grade sports fiction from the Whitfield Books children's soccer series.
Mentors: Kevin De Bruyne (today's hero) & Roy Keane (parents' era legend).
Age range: 7 to 14
Page count: 141
ISBN: 978-1971228037
About the book
Xavier balances school, family, and football while guiding Oakridge through big moments. He finds that a captain’s greatest skill is lifting others. 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 (Kevin De Bruyne and Roy Keane).
What readers will learn
- How to lead with empathy
- How to make decisions under time pressure
- How to turn mistakes into momentum
- How to stay calm when emotions run high
- How to balance confidence with humility
- How to listen before leading
Plus: compare a current pro hero with a classic legend from your parents' era (Kevin De Bruyne + Roy Keane).
This story helped our team talk about nerves before a championship match.Coach MalikU13 coach