Champions aren't born that way - they're made through hard work and devotion.  Each inspirational and enlightening book in this series features close-up case studies of world-class athletes as it presents the training, techniques, and skills necessary to be a champion. 

Even in my first year, 'No-Nonsense' was my nickname, I never fooled around, not even at five years old.  Kids were throwing their gloves around, joking around. 

Perfection is an impossibility but striving for perfection is not.  Do the best you can.  That is what counts."-John Wooden.  John Wooden coached the UCLA Bruins to ten NCAA championships during his long career. 

It's not whether you get knocked down, it's whether you get up."-Vince Lombardi.  These words from legendary football coach Vince Lombardi are as true today as when he first spoke them more than 35 years ago. 

I think the most important thing about soccer is just to have fun with it...[and, of course,] practice, practice, practice."-Mia Hamm.  One of the world's greatest female soccer players, Mia Hamm has won an Olympic gold medal and the World Cup twice. 

If you can't give 110 percent, then you shouldn't do it-I've given 110 percent in my sport."-Lennox Lewis.  Lennox Lewis retired from professional boxing in 2004 as one of the greatest fighters of all time. 

My dream is to be in the Olympics and get a gold medal.  I can't wait for that to happen."-Sarah Hughes.  Sarah Hughes achieved her dream in the 2002 Olympics in Salt Lake City.