Footy4MySoul

Giving TJ our collective energy in advance of tomorrow night's TEDX talk! Your contributions to the people, to the game, and to humanity is nothing short of awesome! Learn more: https://tedx.bard.edu/ Learn more about our podcast episode on www.footy4mysoul.com

Transform the game with kindness! ??? Dive into Acts of Kindness: Fueling Soccer’s Soul, a digital book featuring 27 reflections on the powerful acts of kindness happening across the soccer community. ?? Discover many acts that can connect players, parents, coaches, and clubs to make the beautiful game truly meaningful. ???? ?? Explore the eBook for free and check out our latest podcasts at www.Footy4MySoul.com. ???? #actsofkindness?#beautifulgame?#soccercommunity?#soccerparents?#soccerparenting?#unitedsoccercoaches?#usyouthsoccer?#usclubsoccer

Acts of Kindness: Fueling Soccer's Soul is published. Enjoy the integration of the daily reflections between Thanksgiving and Christmas. These 27 are segmented for Players (7), Parents (4), Coaches (4), Unsung Heroes (4), Clubs (4) and Community (4). The eBook contains links to the last 6 podcasts (Leadership, Nutrition, Vision, NIL, Mentorship, & Pathway to Pro). It concludes with Footy4MySoul merch where 100% of net proceeds will be donated to MS4MS.Org where their efforts drive more resources to John Hopkins to help find a cure for multiple sclerosis. In writing Acts of Kindness, my hope is that by connecting experiences among the many stakeholder groups in soccer that Acts of Kindness with nurture greater standards of care. In doing so, yes, this small service of mine may help make the game of soccer/football/footy more beautiful, and hopefully contribute to many other players, parents, coaches, and clubs across many other sports as well. The eBook can be flipped through on the home page. It can also be downloaded into a PDF. In a few days will also be on Amazon for a $4 donation; however it is free on footy4mysoul.com Happy New Year.

A Kinder Pyramid: Keeping Players in the Game for Life Acts of Kindness: Fueling Soccer's Soul. 12-25-24, Day 27 With much gratitude from our Thanksgiving to Christmas daily journey CLUBS FOR PLAYERS The structure of soccer can sometimes overlook the opportunities surrounding the sport that can be enriched beyond playing professionally. By reimagining this traditional framework, we can broaden the base of opportunities, ensuring that the longer individuals stay engaged with soccer, the more avenues they discover to contribute meaningfully. Clubs play a pivotal role in reshaping this paradigm. By fostering an environment that values diverse contributions, clubs help players recognize the multitude of opportunities within the soccer ecosystem. Through thoughtful leadership, clubs demonstrate that success in the sport isn’t limited to achieving professional status—it’s about building skills, connections, and a lifelong love for the game. Embracing a shift in perspective means valuing all roles within the sport. Collaborative efforts among stakeholders—including parents, educators, coaches, mentors, and community leaders—are essential in transforming this vision into reality. Together, these groups can trust and support clubs, schools, and soccer organizations in shaping a player’s journey. We embrace the idea that by inverting the pyramid, we can keep more players in the game for longer, allowing opportunities to expand over their lifetimes. This act of kindness not only enriches their personal soccer journeys but also empowers them to pass on their love for the game to future generations. That continuity is what truly makes soccer beautiful. #SoccerForLife #YouthSoccer #LifelongLoveForSoccer #InvertingThePyramid

Creating Space for Players to Reflect After the Game Acts of Kindness: Fueling Soccer's Soul. 12-24-24, Day 26 PARENTS AND THEIR KIDS Moments after a practice or game are filled with complexity. Players may be replaying key moments, questioning their decisions, reliving successes, or dwelling on mistakes. The emotions are raw—whether it’s the exhilaration of a great performance or the frustration of a tough game. It’s a time when they are deeply immersed in their own thoughts, trying to process what just unfolded on the field. This is their journey—a personal experience of growth, learning, and striving to do their best. As parents, our role is to support without intruding. The car ride home or the first conversation after a game is an opportunity to show respect by letting them lead. Allow them the time and space to decompress, free of critique or pressure. When they are ready to talk, curiosity is far more valuable than judgment. Asking questions like, “How did you feel out there?” or offering simple affirmations like, “I love watching you play,” opens a door for connection and reflection without adding unnecessary weight to the moment. It’s not our place to judge their performance, the calls of the referee, or the choices of their coach—this only detracts from their experience and growth. We embrace the parents who recognize the importance of this approach. Your respect and patience send a powerful message: that their effort and joy matter more than any single outcome. By giving them the space to reflect and the kindness of listening, you reinforce their confidence and build their love for the game. You teach them that their value isn’t tied to a win, a goal, or a perfect play but to the passion and effort they bring to the field. At any level of soccer, from grassroots to the highest levels of competition, this lesson is universal. Respecting the player’s journey fosters an environment where the game remains a source of joy and learning. By creating a space where they feel supported and understood, we shape not only better athletes but also more resilient individuals who will carry these lessons far beyond the pitch. Uplifted by this? Dive deeper into stories like these on our YouTube, Apple, or Spotify channels. #SoccerParents #SoccerLife #ParentingWithKindness #PositiveParenting

Coaches Who Lead with Care and?Dedication Acts of Kindness: Fueling Soccer's Soul. 12-23-24, Day 25 GRATITUDE FOR COACHES Coaches are often seen as the architects of a team—guiding players, running drills, and leading games. Many fulfill these expectations admirably, but this reflection is for those extraordinary coaches who go above and beyond. These are the coaches who care deeply and take immense pride in being the best they can be for their players. They design practices with care, tailoring each session to challenge the team and players to continually improve. They arrive early to prepare the field, ensure every cone is placed with purpose, and oftentimes review game footage late into the night to find ways to elevate their team...relentless level of effort. This dedication often comes at personal cost. From the volunteer coach at the grassroots level staying after practice to teach a player how to juggle to the high school, college, or professional coach analyzing hours of film, all of them spend their weekends on the sidelines and their mornings crafting thoughtful feedback. Their care and commitment shape players into better athletes and, more importantly, set the best example for our youth. We are grateful for their time, effort, and commitment. Their intense desire to do more reflects as much on their players and team dynamics as it does on setting a high standard of care that the broader community recognizes and admires. #SoccerLeadership #SoccerCoaches #SoccerKindness

Investing in Coaches, Enriching Players: A Club’s True Impact Acts of Kindness: Fueling Soccer's Soul. 12-22-24, Day 24 CLUBS FOR COACHES Grassroots, high school, and club coaches play a vital role in shaping not just footballers but great people. By fostering growth mindsets and creating a positive culture for each player, they instill confidence, foster teamwork, and build resilience both on and off the pitch. Their role extends beyond teaching the soccer skills, tactics, and techniques.?By equipping coaches with resources like the art of effective communication, they can guide players to develop and grow their confidence, along with other important skills, practices, and mindsets. Clubs and schools that value holistic coach education create transformative change by equipping coaches with skills in communication, resilience, mental health awareness, nutrition, mentoring, and more. These areas provide measurable support for players, enhancing their development throughout their football journeys. True impact is achieved when clubs and school programs prioritize investments in professional coaching development, recognizing its importance for shaping players both on and off the pitch. Clubs should value this development on par with the standards set by coaching licenses such as those at the Grassroots or D-A levels.?Far too often in the game today, these are regarded as routine requirements rather than essential strategic priorities for the club.? Footy4MySoul celebrates clubs and organizations that support this crucial development by making it accessible and integral to their mission. This commitment is truly an act of kindness, creating a ripple effect that shapes well-rounded players and inspires their teammates. It strengthens teams, elevates clubs, and ultimately enriches entire communities. MiMentor Female Footballers Greg Rowe TJ Kostecky Uplifted by this? Dive deeper into stories like these on our YouTube, Apple, or Spotify channels.

From Bubble to Breakthrough: Encouraging Every Player’s Journey Acts of Kindness: Fueling Soccer's Soul. 12-21-24, Day 23 PLAYERS CONNECTION As players progress in soccer, the divide becomes clear—first team versus second team, varsity versus junior varsity, or college roster versus club or recreational soccer. At every level, there are the elite, the bubble players, and those who are cut. The inspiring stories often come from players who didn’t make the team but persevered, fueled by heart, soul, and dedication. These players can achieve greatness—if they stay in the game. Yet many drop out, especially during their early teenage years, feeling excluded and losing faith. Here’s where kindness matters. For those who make the first team, there is an opportunity to show compassion. Recognize the efforts of those who just missed out, motivate them, and encourage them to keep going. Early success often favors athleticism, speed, and size, but as players grow, the game shifts to understanding and strategy. At every age, a player who has been cut or who is on the bubble can make a difference on the first team someday—anything is possible. Embrace those actions when first-team players lift up their teammates who didn’t make it. It’s about fostering belief and confidence, reminding them of their value and potential within the game. Kindness can be shown in moments like offering words of support after a tough tryout or inviting them to train together outside of practice. There’s nothing more powerful than belief, and the kindness is to help those players who have been cut to keep believing. At Footy4MySoul, we want to thank those who encourage players to keep playing. Your encouragement can be the reason someone keeps playing, showing that soccer is about connection, compassion, and the journey we take together. Uplifted by this? Dive deeper into stories like these on our YouTube, Apple, or Spotify channels. #SoccerLeadership #SoccerKindness #SoccerLife #FootballIsLife #GrassrootsSoccer

Soccer’s Steady Wheels: A Tribute to the Bus Drivers Who Keep Us Rolling Acts of Kindness: Fueling Soccer's Soul. 12-20-24, Day 22 TEAMS AND BUS DRIVERS Every team’s journey begins with someone who prioritizes safety, reliability, and care—our bus drivers. These unsung heroes are the first to greet us with a smile and the last to wave goodbye after a long day. Rain or shine, they ensure players, coaches, and families get to their matches and trainings safely, often waiting patiently on the sidelines while the action unfolds. For many drivers, the role goes beyond simply transporting a team. Some were footballers themselves, carrying memories of their own days on the pitch. They understand the thrill of the game and the camaraderie of the team. Yet, their work can sometimes feel lonely—they stay by the bus, ensuring everything is ready for the next leg of the journey, while the rest of us celebrate victories or process the sting of defeat. They see both sides of the emotional journey and handle it all with calm, steady balance, quietly supporting the team no matter the outcome. Learning their name, asking about their journey, or sharing a moment of thanks as players board or step off the bus can brighten their day. Let’s embrace those coaches and teams that consider bus drivers part of the soccer family experience. Since a team may have multiple bus drivers throughout the season, it might be logistically difficult to invite them to a team celebration or provide a signed card. However, small random acts of kindness and moments of gratitude can brighten their day and remind them that their role matters and is appreciated. Footy4MySoul embraces the bus drivers who make our journeys possible. They don’t just transport us—they carry our dreams, our memories, and the spirit of the game with every mile they drive. Uplifted by this? Dive deeper into stories like these on our YouTube, Apple, or Spotify channels. #ThankYouBusDrivers #FuelingTheJourney #KindnessOnTheRoad

Behind Every Goal: Celebrating Parental Dedication in Youth Soccer Acts of Kindness: Fueling Soccer's Soul. 12-19-24, Day 21 PLAYERS TO PARENTS Embarking on the journey of youth soccer in the United States requires significant commitment from families, particularly parents. For those aiming for collegiate or professional levels, the prevalent pay-to-play model entails substantial financial investments. Over the course of a player's development, these expenses can accumulate to nearly $100,000. Even town and recreational programs can be costly, demanding considerable time and energy from families. Beyond the monetary costs, parents invest considerable time and energy, balancing work commitments and personal sacrifices to support their child's passion for the sport. This dedication often involves transporting children to practices and games, attending tournaments and ID camps, and providing emotional encouragement throughout the ups and downs of athletic competition. We embrace those players who recognize these efforts and express genuine gratitude. Simple acts, such as assisting with household chores, dedicating extra time to studies to achieve better grades, or spending quality time with siblings and grandparents, demonstrate appreciation and contribute positively to family life. Even a heartfelt "I appreciate you, Mom" or "Thank you, Dad" on a random morning or before bedtime can deeply resonate with caregivers. It's essential for young athletes to maintain a genuine understanding that they are sons or daughters, brothers or sisters, before they are players. Recognizing this perspective helps them appreciate their familial roles and the support system that enables their athletic pursuits. Footy4MySoul commends those acts of kindness that not only show respect and gratitude for the support received but also foster personal growth and a deeper connection within the family. By going the extra mile, players can reciprocate the dedication their parents have shown, creating a healthy and sustainable balance between pursuing athletic dreams and nurturing family bonds. Uplifted by this? Dive deeper into stories like these on our YouTube, Apple, or Spotify channels. #YouthSoccer #SoccerParents #ActsOfKindness #ThankYouParents #SoccerLife