12 weeks, 70 something practices, 7 exhibtion games, 12 regular season games, and it all comes to a close for the 2009 season this weekend. In my 8th coaching university, I still find it amazing how quickly the time passes during the varsity competition schedule. Just when it seems that the team is finding its groove, the season comes to a close. The intense nature of the university schedule seems to really forge a unique atmosphere among players and coaches (especially if things are going well) as we spend so much time together throughout the weeks. This year has really been a special one for me personally but also working with this group of players. I have re-found a passion and enjoyment, watching a group of individuals become a team, improve their soccer and create what will be some great friendships. It is also sad in a way in that this weekend will see the end of the varsity careers for 4 athletes who have each completed 4 years with the Stingers. What makes it even more special is that each of these players has been what I consider a great ambassador for the soccer program and 4 individuals that I have truly enjoyed being around. I have watched each of them grow not only as soccer players, but more importantly grow as people. These 4 will be missed.. and being very honest, we can't always say that about every player that crosses our path. Time always matches on and while this was a special group, the reality is that after this weekend, this group will be no more and we as coaches will need to work to move forward with the remaining players while hopefully keeping the same chemistry, vibe and attitude among the team while adding new faces.
In terms of this weekend's games, well every coach hopes to finish out a season playing for something... and luckily we get that chance. We are currently sitting in 6th place with a record of 3W-9L, with a chance to move to 5th. That placement would certainly be a improvement over last year when we finished 7th having only won 1 game and tied 2. UQTR is right above us 2 points ahead and a win tonight against them, would vault us into 5th place. Two wins this weekend, would give us 5 which would be the highest total in 4 years (we had 4 wins and a tie in 2007). Now for some, saying we got 5 wins might seem like "what is the big deal" but when you are trying to rebuild you look for signs of progress, for concrete proof that you are moving forward and improving and to finish 5-9 in a solid 5th place would be a big step...especially when we consider the # of players who can return next fall. It is hard to see all the hard work that this group has put in and to witness the steady improvement and then have to wait until next fall to hopefully see the results but that is coaching at the university level, you coach for the short-term but build for the future. GO STINGERS !
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AuthorAfter many years of coaching at various levels and with different teams, I thought I would share some of my experiences and thoughts about coaching. Archives
January 2023
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