Play Big

Lessons in Being Limitless from the First Woman to Coach in the NFL

By: Jen Welter, Stephanie Krikorian

Narrated by: Jen Welter

An inspiring, gutsy handbook for success from the first woman to ever coach in the NFL

When Jen Welter became a linebackers coach for the Arizona Cardinals in 2015, she was the first woman to ever break the glass sideline of the NFL. In Play Big, Welter reveals the grit that it took to be a trailblazer in the ultimate boys' club.

Pre-NFL, Welter was an undersized, underestimated athlete who made sacrifice after sacrifice to achieve her football dreams -- rising to the top of women's football leagues and eventually daring to play against men twice her size. Play Big lays out how she succeeded despite the odds, through force of will and determination, revealing the wisdom Welter gained over countless setbacks and challenges. With vivid wit and candor, Play Big will coach you to do the same -- whatever your obstacles might be -- while translating Welter's hard-earned advice for cultivating true perseverance and toughness.

Critic reviews

"When I met Jen, I saw the passion in her. Not just in her voice or a particular word she said-in her whole person. It was easily recognizable that the insights and experience were there. Her resume spoke for itself. But her enthusiasm about the game, her expertise, and being able to teach what she knew, I thought was very evident in the first meeting. That's why I hired her. Anyone reading this book will be inspired by her drive and learn from her journey. She has a different perspective on how to teach that extends beyond the field."
--- Bruce Arians, Arizona Cardinals Head Coach

"Jen Welter is a master of change, not only for the NFL but for women in society. I'm proud of everything that she has done to change perception and reality for the Next Generation. Jen is a force and is one of the most qualified people I know on change."
--- Nancy Lieberman, Sacramento Kings Assistant Coach, Basketball Hall of Fame Member

"If you're thinking about taking a road less traveled, then Play Big is the book for you! Dr. Jen Welter does a great job describing what it takes to be a pioneer in sports and how to break down barriers."
--- Warren Moon, Pro Football Hall of Fame Quarterback, 2006

"Every human being has days when they lack confidence and motivation for their dreams. Reading this book is literally having NFL's first female coach cheering you on to get out there and fight for what you deserve. Jen's candid voice, perseverance, and vivid anecdotes will give you the inspiration to tackle anything."
--- Claudia Chan, CEO of S.H.E. Summit & Author of This Is How We Rise

"Play Big serves as inspiration for anyone who wants to shatter tradition. Dr. Jen Welter's journey gives great insight into working in sports and making your dreams a reality."
--- Dave Meltzer, CEO of Sports 1 Marketing, and Bestselling Author

Dr Jen’s story no didn’t know her achievement

What a great woman icon! Thank you for sharing your incredible story! A must rad for all young women.

A must read for parents of girls and every girl

What made the experience of listening to Play Big the most enjoyable?

The humility and authenticity of the author`

What other book might you compare Play Big to and why?

Same premises as Landmark Forum, for taking responsibility for your life and being open to limitless possibilities.

Which scene was your favorite?

Story of not being picked up full time by Arizona as coach. The grace and dignity that Jen accepted this was admirable. I could feel her disappointment, then saw her not only rise above it but soar above it. A truly remarkable woman.

If you were to make a film of this book, what would the tag line be?

Jen got it right--"Play Big!"

Any additional comments?

This book is a guide to raising girls or growing up in today's society as a girl, with the focus being on growing up as a PERSON with limitless possibilities, just by being authentic and who you are at the core. So many golden nuggets of information to keep in your hip pocket.

Fierce!

Great story about not giving up and doing what you love. What an inspiration story

Own Your Impact

I love the intersection of personal antedotes and motivational content. Dr. Jen provides inspiration to all with this beautiful read.

Love Jen but not book

Jen is a very accomplished woman and I have the utmost respect for her. If you aspire to achieve results in your career I highly recommend the book. I love football so reading about her was something I was looking forward to. The book jumped around a little bit so i had a hard time with the time line. I also felt there were a lot of cliches. What I enjoyed the most was her romantic relationship and how she got caught up in it. A controlling jerk who was emotionally abusive - though that wasn’t the premise of the book I felt she could have given us more. Many powerful women fall prey to this type of abuse.