We All Trip and Stumble - But It's All Worth It

As your son or daughter hits a certain age you start to look back on the wins and loses, not of their games, but of how well you did as a parent in giving them whatever you can.  For some of us, sports is a great way to get our kids involved in groups, learn a new game, and get us into that seemingly never ending shuffle of things kids are involved in.  I consider myself lucky to have had the experiences with my two daughters as a coach and spectator (preferring the coaching side). It gave us all something I couldn’t have anticipated. I'm hopeful you'll have the same experiences.

If your kids are new to soccer, chances are you may be too, The SYSA blog will walk through as many of the scenarios and tips we've gathered to make the most of the game and the teams they are on.  I’ve coached dozens of different teams over the years: ranging from U10 to High School in the SYSA program, Mountain Club, and indoor programs in our area. I’ve tripped and stumbled through the early years and was fortunate to have an amazing group of players and families that formed something special in my opinion.  

Some of what we’ll share will help you learn the game, and determine where they may want to take it. Certain players will want to “go all in” and play competitively on club teams, in middle/high school, and beyond, while others just like to play or just aren’t interested and want something else. Wherever they start, SYSA is focused on providing a place for kids to simply play soccer.  Please take what I share as one parent/coaches experience.

Some of my players have been gracious enough to share their side of the blog's theme: "coaching and being coached".  They have been assistant coaches with the younger players for a few years now and have a new "appreciation" for how to motivate and manage young players. The "pay it forward" atmosphere the program creates is great.  We want to share this with you and inspire other players to join the program in the future.