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“An extraordinary story… gritty and inspiring… I didn’t want it to end.” — Jeff Benedict, New York Times bestselling author of The Dynasty

Why This Book Deserves a Spot on Your Shelf

  • Underdog Triumph: Follow the California School for the Deaf, Riverside (CSDR) Cubs as they blitz from obscurity to an undefeated season.
  • Fresh Friday‑Night‑Lights Energy: Award‑winning journalist Thomas Fuller delivers fast‑paced narrative nonfiction that keeps the stakes sky‑high.
  • Deaf Culture Front & Center: Learn how visual game plans, instant‑sign communication, and a “silent snap” count became the Cubs’ secret weapons.
  • Universal Inspiration: Resilience, brotherhood, sleep‑in‑the‑parking‑lot hustle—this story redefines what it really takes to win.

👉 Grab your copy on Amazon and feel the adrenaline surge.


Quick Synopsis

When a modest tip lands in Thomas Fuller’s inbox in late 2021—“Deaf high‑school team is undefeated”—the veteran New York Times reporter races to Riverside, California. What unfolds is a two‑season odyssey brimming with:

  1. Head Coach Keith Adams: A deaf former athlete who transforms adversity into super‑powers on the field.
  2. Grit Fueled Players: From a linebacker playing through a broken leg to a wide receiver living out of his dad’s car, every chapter screams heart.
  3. Historic Firsts: In their 68‑year history, the Cubs smash records, stereotypes, and the scoreboard—while the whole nation watches.

Fuller stitches game‑day drama with deep dives into Deaf history, language, and community—turning a sports book into a panoramic portrait of modern America.


Key Themes & SEO Takeaways

1. Deafness as Competitive Advantage

CSDR’s “silent” sideline allows lightning‑fast play‑calling. Fuller shows how communication barriers flip into strategic assets—a prime keyword angle for deaf football team book searches.

2. Brotherhood Beyond the Field

From study hall to statewide media frenzy, the Cubs’ camaraderie proves powerful visitor magnets for queries like inspirational high‑school sports stories.

3. Rewriting the Underdog Script

Readers hunting for underdog football stories will discover how grit, data‑driven coaching, and community support spark unlikely dominance.


Who Should Read The Boys of Riverside?

Reader TypeWhat You’ll Love
Sports FansPlay‑by‑play intensity & Friday‑night nostalgia
Educators & ParentsEye‑opening look at Deaf education, inclusion & youth mentorship
Leadership BuffsCase study in vision‑driven coaching & culture‑building
Anyone Chasing Big DreamsProof that disadvantages can morph into unbreakable strengths

Memorable Quotes to Share

“What people often deem disadvantages can serve as unflinching bonds that lead to tremendous achievement.” — Jeff Pearlman

“Deafness is no impediment to sporting glory.” — Thomas Fuller


Final Verdict ★★★★★

The Boys of Riverside isn’t just a feel‑good sports saga—it’s a blueprint for defying limits. With tight prose, cinematic pacing, and heartfelt storytelling, Fuller pulls you into a huddle you won’t forget.

Ready to cheer for the Cubs?

Buy the book on Amazon and experience every touchdown.


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