The first day of spring is quickly approaching, which for many soccer teams that means the weather is finally warming up and it’s time to head back outside. Springtime for our Coach of the Week, Scott Zimmerman, from Springfield, Missouri, means he and his young players are gearing up for another season full of new experiences.

Since 2005, Zimmerman has been coaching boys and girls youth soccer. As an experienced youth sports coach he has found that one of the most important aspects is remembering that it is all about the kids. That facet comes easy to Zimmerman as a father of two, which is why he treats his players just like he would his own. He has found this method of coaching to be most valuable because the players learn to respect you, which gives him as a coach the opportunity to learn from them as well.

Zimmerman and his wife Kim have two kids who both play soccer. They are the main reason why he volunteered as a coach, and he is proud that he has been able to continue his role for the past six years. He first started coaching his eldest son, 11 year-old Ben’s teams when he was old enough to play, and he is now volunteered for his 8 year-old daughter Kelsey’s teams as well.

Currently, Zimmerman is the head of both Ben’s team the U11 Nighthawks, and Kelsey’s U9 Thunder team. They are having very unpredictable seasons so far but Zimmerman feels that not knowing how a player will react is just one of the many experiences of working with a young team - you never know what could happen next!

Congratulations again Scott on being honored as our Coach of the Week! Good luck to both the Nighthawks and Thunder in your upcoming games and tournaments.

Coach Scott Zimmerman’s Keys to Success:

• Determine your coaching philosophy and make sure it is consistent with your personality.

• Remember, it is always about the kids.

• In youth sports, the parents can make or break a team as fast as the players.