Petronio Morillo
Writer, Coach, Friend
New Book Release 1/2026 - Early Reviews
“This book couldn’t have come at a better time. The pressure on kids has never been higher, and parents often don’t realize how much their energy affects the game. Petronio Morillo reminds us what youth sports are supposed to be about—growth, joy, teamwork, and most importantly FUN.”
-Evans Malyi - Loudoun Soccer Club - Director of Operations
“I wish I could hand this book to every parent on my sideline. It’s not judgmental—it’s eye-opening. Petronio Morillo helps parents understand how their emotions affect their kids in ways they may never realize. Keep It Between the Lines is refreshing, hopeful, and long overdue for the youth sports community.”
-Chris Metellus - Liverpool International Academy- U10 & U11 Head Coach
"Petronio has written an honest and no-nonsense guide for parents navigating the world of youth sports. Keep It Between The Lines is refreshingly grounded and full of wisdom. We will highly recommend this book to all our families every season."
-Rene San Martin – Potomac Soccer Association – Director of Youth Programs
"Keep It Between The Lines cuts through the noise with clarity and heart—a must-read for any parent who wants to support their child without losing sight of their own perspective!"
-Johanna Gelber - National Director, Soccer Bugs Child Development Program
“Every season, I get the privilege to meet hundreds of wonderful soccer parents who truly want the best for their kids but get caught up in the competition and pressure to win or be the best. This book helps them step back and see things clearly, offering a different perspective. Keep It Between the Lines is honest, timely, compassionate, and real—it reminds us that youth sports are for the children, and that they should build confidence and joy, not anxiety. I wish every parent could read this before submerging themselves into youth sports of any level.”
-Steve Knapman - Brit-Am Soccer Academy - Founder
"Keep It Between the Lines is more than a book about youth sports — it’s a mirror for every parent, coach, and leader who cares about kids. Petronio captures the heart of what truly matters: joy, growth, and perspective. Every academy, every sideline, and every family needs this message.”
-Alan Lydiate - Maryland State Youth Soccer Association - Former Director
Reading is fundamental
Pete's Classics - I love stories
I will never forget getting lost with a pet raccoon named Rascal or hunting the Ozarks with Little Ann and Old Dan. I felt Ponyboy's pain and Rocky's triumph. Those stories stayed with me long after the last page was turned.
As I grew older, stories became more than escape—they became teachers. A coach taught me about teamwork and sacrifice. I learned about the horrors of war and the darkness that can live within people. I was profoundly affected by the boys trapped on that island and how fear turned them against one another in Lord of the Flies. I wandered through worlds of hobbits, elves, and dwarves, discovering courage, loyalty, and hope along the way.
In every story, I found something I needed at that moment—understanding, comfort, challenge, or perspective.
There is no better way to grow, preserve, and share what we learn than to write it down, so others may find what they need.
That belief is at the heart of everything I write.
Storytelling is a time-honored passion
There is no better way to pass along information and wisdom than through a good story. I have always enjoyed stories—books, movies, or simply listening to someone tell one. It doesn’t matter how a story is shared; a wonderful story has the power to transport us into a world where anything is possible.
Stories make us feel alive! They allow us to step into lives different from our own and see the world through another’s eyes. There is no greater pursuit than speaking and writing about life so that we may share what we’ve learned and grow together.
I hope your lives are filled with beautiful stories—and that you feel inspired to share them with others.
My next project will be the first book by my new publishing company, Advice From a Friend Publishing. These books will be thoughtful, powerful, and designed to offer readers guidance, experience, and a bit of entertainment along the way. My first book, Keep it Between the Lines: A Family Guide to Keeping Youth Sports in Perspective, will be out in January of 2026!
Contact me
I'd like to hear from you
We all reach crossroads in our lives.
When the road ahead isn’t clear, it can help to talk with someone—to share a thought or simply not feel so alone. If something I’ve written has resonated with you, or if you find yourself at a crossroads, I invite you to reach out.
I can’t promise answers, but I can promise a listening ear—one friend to another.
Wherever your path leads, I hope you don’t feel like you have to walk it alone.
Petronio Morillo
