Passing on Soccer Passion

Springtime in Goshen is definitely one of my favorite times of the year - plants finally start turning green, flowers bloom, rain showers are countered by bright blue skies...but most of all because it's time again for outdoor soccer. I've been playing soccer since I was kindergarten and it will probably always be one of my favorite free time activities. In college, however, I haven't had the time to play competitively, so I am not quite as talented as I used to do. In the past few years, though, I've found a new outlet for my passion for soccer - Goshen Youth Soccer Organization.

Just this week I started my fourth year of coaching with GYSO - our first practice was on Monday. I'm really excited about this season, though a bit nervous, because I've moved up an age level - from 4th and 5th grade boys to middle school boys. That means I'll be coaching a team of 6th, 7th, and 8th graders for eight weeks. These players are bigger and probably a little more talented than the younger teams I've coached - especially the 2nd and 3rd grade team I coached my first year. However, despite the increased level of play, I'm hoping that some of the same principles that have guided my coaching in the past will still apply.

First, I always try to make sure that my team has fun. That was the main point of GYSO when I was a player and it still should be. Even if we only have a few players at practice or if we lose a game I always want to make sure that my team has fun. I try to do this by giving them verbal support and encouragement, but alo by designing practices and drills that are engaging and fun.

In addition to having fun, I try to do my best to simply connect with kids and their parents. As a developing teacher, I want to know that I can make positive connections and impacts in my students lives, and this is a great way to practice that skill. It's also a great place to interact with parents and get to know them better. I've really enjoyed in past season when the end of the season rolls around and I've developed connections with players and their parents. Often it's kind of a sad feeling when we depart after the final tournament. However, it always feels rewarding when I see former players around town, at schools, or on the fields the next season and they yell to me, "Hey coach!"

(Action #5 - Become active in your community)