Key Achievements & Contributions
I have had the privilege of coaching with the Airdrie District Soccer Association for the last three years, both at the community level and the competitive program. The welcoming community has been a fantastic boon that inspires me to keep getting involved and convince others to do the same. There have been many great accomplishments over the years, but most recently, our U13 team won gold at both the Lacombe Soccer Showdown and the Airdrie Summit Cup tournaments. We are excited to be heading to Provincials this year.
Community Involvement
Soccer has always been about building community for me. Whether it be as a coach of a high school team for a decade before my family's move to Airdrie or running and playing on men’s rec teams, what I appreciate the most is bringing people together for a shared sense of purpose and fun.
Interview Questions
- What does receiving the POPS Award mean to you?
Winning the award is a great honour and means that my efforts are being recognized. Having only lived in the community for a few years now, it feels like the planted roots are growing. - What inspired you to get involved in this sport or activity?
I can’t recall the first moment I really wanted to get involved in soccer, but I am sure it is related to my impressionable self playing Tim Bits many many years ago. From then on, I played recreationally all the way to my Sunday evening league now. Having fantastic coaches along the way inspired me to become one myself. - Can you share a memorable moment from your journey?
I have been lucky to have witnessed so many amazing athletes and people grow and compete over the years, it is hard to pick any one moment. Most recently, it has been watching my own children find the joy in competition and community that has been the most rewarding aspect for me. - What makes Airdrie’s sports & activity community special?
The open and inclusive atmosphere of Airdrie’s sports and activity community has been fantastic. Whether it is my son playing with ADSA or my daughter doing gymnastics at Genesis. Just the other day it was the chance to visit our local Legion for the World Cup viewing party that highlighted how much these organizations do to bring people together. - Advice for someone starting out in your sport or activity?
Get involved in whatever capacity you feel comfortable. Every team needs a coach, but they also need assistant coaches, team managers, supportive parents and community volunteers. Ask questions and build connections. - How do you stay motivated and passionate about what you do?
I remember the time and effort that my coaches put forth along the way and then remind myself that if you want a positive and supportive community, be the change you want to see. - What’s one thing you hope people remember about your contribution?
Maya Angelou once said, “I've learned that people will forget what you said, people will forget what you did, but people will never forget how you made them feel. ” I hope that people remember that I made them feel supported and appreciated\, even as I yelled at them from the sidelines. - Is there someone who influenced your journey you’d like to acknowledge?
My high school wrestling coach was a great example of someone who believed in hard work, determination, but also inclusivity and teamwork. Years into my own teaching career, I had the chance to work with him, and though I did not end up coaching the same sport, he was always someone in the back of my mind.
