World Cup Edition : Grassroots Soccer coaching in the USA

What first got you into coaching grassroots soccer in the U.S.?

I moved to Atlanta, Georgia, in 2010 and was diagnosed with premature atrial contractions, which can flare up during intense physical activity. Because of that, playing soccer competitively was never really an option for me here. Instead, I did the next best thing and got into coaching so I could stay involved in the game I love.

I was 21 at the time, and coaching soccer in the United States provided an opportunity to earn a living while staying connected to the sport. What started as a job quickly became something I genuinely enjoyed. I love being in a learning environment where kids are having fun, developing new skills, and growing in confidence. Seeing that progress and knowing I’ve helped play a role in it is what has kept me involved in grassroots coaching ever since.

What’s been the biggest challenge on your coaching journey so far?

The biggest challenge of my coaching career so far has been balancing coaching with my full-time career. Outside of soccer, I’m the Director of Operations for a large gym franchise in the United States, and that role requires a significant amount of my time and attention.

Most of my coaching takes place in the evenings on Mondays and Wednesdays, as well as throughout the day on weekends. There are many Saturdays and Sundays where I’m at the field from morning until evening. Because of that, time management has been my biggest challenge.

I want to make sure I’m giving my players the time, preparation, and attention they deserve. Balancing the demands of my professional career with my commitment to coaching can be challenging, but it’s important to me that I continue to provide a positive experience and help the players develop both on and off the field.

How do you balance developing players vs. winning games?

I think the balance between developing players and winning games is actually quite simple. While everyone wants to win, player development always comes first.

Every player on the team receives a fair amount of playing time. Within our club, we have different levels of teams across the age groups to ensure players are competing at the right level for their development. For example, with our Under-11 age group last season, we had three different teams.

My philosophy is that if a player is rostered for game day, they should play at least half of the match, regardless of the score or result. Of course, we want to be competitive and win games, but the best way to develop players is by giving them meaningful minutes on the field. Players learn through experience, and they can’t improve if they’re sitting on the bench.

In the long run, focusing on development not only helps individual players reach their potential, but it also creates stronger teams and leads to more success on the field.

What’s one moment with your team that reminded you why you coach?

I don’t think there’s one single moment that reminds me why I coach, it’s really a collection of moments over the years.

A recent example was while I was working on my next coaching license. The players are off for the summer, but several of the boys came out and helped me with a video session for my course. They didn’t have to do that, but they were willing to give up some of their time to support me, and that meant a lot.

Of course, there are also the exciting moments, like winning tournaments and seeing the players celebrate the success they’ve worked hard to achieve. But some of the most meaningful moments are much simpler than that. At the end of training, I often have players come up and say, “Thank you, Coach.” They don’t have to say it, and I never expect it, but those small gestures show that they’re enjoying the experience and appreciate what we’re doing together.

It’s those moments, both big and small that keep me motivated and remind me why I continue coaching. Seeing players grow, enjoy the game, and develop as people is what makes it all worthwhile.

What advice would you give to someone starting out as a grassroots coach in America

My advice to anyone starting out in grassroots soccer coaching in America would be simple: only do it if you genuinely enjoy it. If you don’t enjoy working with kids and helping them develop, then it’s probably not the right environment for you.

The good news is that soccer continues to grow across the United States, and clubs are always looking for good coaches. If you’re interested, reach out to your local club and see what opportunities are available. Go in with an open mind and focus on creating a positive, fun learning environment for the players.

One thing that’s important to remember is that you’re not coaching Messi or Ronaldo. The players are going to make mistakes, and that’s completely normal. In fact, making mistakes is a vital part of the learning process. Your job as a coach is to create an environment where players feel comfortable trying new things, learning from errors, and continuing to improve.

If you can be patient, keep the game enjoyable, and focus on helping players develop both on and off the field, you’ll have a rewarding experience and make a real impact on the kids you coach.

What does “PB” (Personal Best) mean to you when you coach young players?

To me, “personal best” means giving your very best effort in everything you do. As a coach, that means showing up prepared, bringing energy to every training session and game, and giving 100% of yourself to the players.

The players and their families invest a lot of time, effort, and money into the sport, so I believe it’s only fair that coaches give their full commitment in return. Going through the motions or giving anything less than your best isn’t doing right by the players who rely on you.

Personal best also means continuing to improve yourself. No coach knows everything, and there is always something new to learn. I try to watch other coaches, have conversations with people in the game, attend courses, and keep educating myself. The more I learn, the better experience I can provide for my players.

Just as we ask players to keep developing and striving to improve, coaches should do the same. Personal best isn’t just about effort on the field, it’s about having a growth mindset and constantly looking for ways to become better for the benefit of the players you serve.