Idaho Youth Soccer Association & Stanno present

Tracy Clark

DECEMBER COACH OF THE MONTH

Current Team:Idaho ODP 00G, Rapids SC GU15, Buhl High School Boys Varsity

Coaching experience:

Twin Falls Rapids team coach, 7 years (Board member, 4 years)

Buhl High School Boys Varsity, 10+ years

Idaho ODP Coach, 3 years

Playing experience:Organized soccer did not exist in southern Idaho during my youth. Soccer “picked me” in 1997 when I was asked by my friend to help coach his son’s team. I’ve been learning and “playing” the game since that time.

Memorable soccer experience:Competing at Regional President’s Cup in June with my GU14’s

Favorite teams:I enjoy watching players who compete with passion for their national team. I enjoy discussing the EPL (with coaches), Liga MX (with my high school players), and NWSL / USA Women’s National team with my girls. Domestically, I cheer for our national teams and Real Salt Lake.

Mentor/hero:I appreciate the wise and gracious discussions I have enjoyed with the coaching community, especially those coaches who have lent their talents to ODP. I respect the coaches who have dedicated themselves to raise the level of play at my club, including Sasha Pavlovic, Shane Hoffman, and Steve Lynch. I admire the tireless work of the Rapids board to improve soccer in the community, including Chris and Kathy Clark. I am grateful to Steve Adlard for his instruction, wisdom, and support and to Christopher Roemer for his vision and guidance.

Favorite way to spend a few free hours:Time spent with family and friends.

Last book read:Book of Romans - The Apostle Paul

Coaching philosophy: Beyond a life-long love for the game, I hope to nurture and advance in players the committed pursuit of excellence. This is measured not only in terms of result but also in terms of dedicated effort. It is not enough to define what you are willing to do – you must also define what you are willing to sacrifice.

Some Favorite quotes:

“If you are going to achieve excellence in big things, you develop the habit in little matters. Excellence is not an exception, it is a prevailing attitude.” --Colin Powell

"The quality of a person's life is in direct proportion to their commitment to excellence, regardless of their chosen field of endeavor." --Vince Lombardi

“I don’t think much of a man who is not better today than he was yesterday.” -- Abraham Lincoln