"Soccer Fundamentals for Players and Coaches" ($15) by Wiel Coerver is the basis for the “Coerver System” of training.  Coerver’s general theory is that better individual skills make for better teams and more exciting soccer.  The first part is arguable (and refuted by the Dutch National Coach) and the latter is unquestionable.

The Coerver system focuses on ball control, flexibility, agility and creative play.  It is one of the most recognized and implemented systems in the world.  Individual players that learn and practice the drills in this book will improve their game.  However, it doesn’t necessarily make them a more creative team player.  Ball skills are important, but teamwork, situational intelligence and execution all contribute to a players success.

The book focuses on how to learn and develop each of the skills that are addressed.  There are ample descriptions and pictures to understand each skill.  The vast majority is devoted to individual learning.  If this is applied outside of a regular team practice, through individual training or self directed practice, it can provide a significant improvement to a player’s ability.  If  a coach devotes a significant portion of the four hours that he/she has each week, the team as a whole is likely to suffer.

Over all, I would recommend this book or the video/dvd versions to individuals looking to improve their ball control and confidence.  The most effective application is private one-on-one or small group training.  More touches on the ball outside of practice will definitely help any U9 to U13 player.  Players older than that will have a harder time mastering the skills.