The Ideal Start

How many people can honestly say they love what they do? I bet you not many. I, however, am one of the people that can honestly say I love what I do.

As I reflect on my past, during my 4th year of undergrad I was working for the minor soccer club in Waterloo and taking a fitness class both semesters when I realized I wanted to combine my passion for both fields. I just wasn’t sure how. Not only did I want to combine my passion for both fields, but I wanted to be involved in team training in some way, at some level. Again, I had the idea, but I wasn’t sure how to make it happen.

Today, I have accomplished both and couldn’t be happier. Most athletes in their youth (myself included) have the ultimate goal of professional sports. In my youth, it was as a player. Now, its in the coaching/fitness/training field.

My current job title is Strength and Conditioning Coach. What this means is I train youth athletes (soccer players specifically) to improve running form and speed via periodized exercise plans and soccer specific exercises, for exceptional results once they reach the field. The athletes train in both a fitness centre and on-field work. Through this position, I have recently been assigned as the Trainer for 6 youth soccer teams in the Greater Toronto Area.

The opportunity to train these 6 teams has come at the ideal time because I am only 22 years old. This opportunity at a young age allows for ample room for growth. It gives me a chance to evaluate and reflect on my own performance (how I interact with the players, drill organization, time management, etc.) which will ultimately help develop myself professionally as a trainer/coach.

The ideal starting point for a wide open future.