The nights come a lot faster in early November. This particular night, Coaching Corps Coach José Net and his soccer team are out on the blacktop practicing for their playoff games under the lights at Mission Dolores Academy in San Francisco.
Two years ago, José immigrated to San Francisco from Puerto Rico for a job opportunity. He began to realize, however, that the job wasn’t aligned with his current career path. After leaving his job, José began volunteering. “I saw it as a wise use of my time,” said José. “It transfers well into a work environment and promotes personal development.” Studies support José’s thinking. Research shows that volunteering is associated with 27% higher odds of employment.
Research shows that volunteering is associated with 27% higher odds of employment.
José found Coaching Corps on social media and within minutes signed up online to become a volunteer coach. He admits that he “never really thought about coaching until hearing about Coaching Corps.” José plays basketball and soccer and thought Coaching Corps as a great opportunity to share his passion and knowledge with kids.
“When I first started, there was a lack of respect, a lot of rivalry between the classes,” José said about his soccer team of 3rd and 4th graders. But as the season went on, José and the head coach fostered teamwork between the players. They were committed to breaking down the barriers on their team. “I tell them that teamwork, as a whole, always beats talent,” José said. The team began working together, gained one another’s trust and formed better relationships. Even the parents began to see a difference.
During the season, their head coach suffered a season-ending injury. José stepped up to the plate and coached his team through consecutive victories, as well as a trip to the playoffs.
José now works full-time and he values his experience as a Coaching Corps coach. He has forged a bond with his colleagues – as they have coaching experience, as well. “I couldn’t have asked for a better experience as a leader.” Though he isn’t currently coaching, José is eager to return to volunteering in the Spring!
“I couldn’t have asked for a better experience as a leader.”
Coaches like José are all across the country, giving kids the opportunity to learn the lessons that sports offer. It’s easy to become a coach and change the game for kids in your community. Sign up with us at www.coachingcorps.org/sign-up/.
