My first coaching of soccer started about 20 years ago in the Holland house and travel programs where I coached my younger brothers. It resumed when my then 4-year-old daughter Ally decided that playing soccer in a league might be FUN. After 10 years of both House and Travel it definitely HAS been fun. Sport shows us that both wins and losses are important because they teach us about personal development, camaraderie and the importance of FUN in competition. Together those are the key elements of success.

Soccer and sports in general have been important to me for a number of reasons. Soccer is a very democratic sport. Players at all skill levels have an opportunity to participate and enjoy the thrill of athletic competition. Soccer can help to promote life skills that are important to a player’s personal development. The ability to work hard at a task. To be able to sacrifice now for a long term goal. To have a strong positive attitude despite adversity and work well in a team environment are all important traits to have as a player but are more important in a well rounded person. On the field, at school, work and home those who possess these life skills are well prepared.

What we promote in Aurora Arsenal Soccer is development of all these important skills and that is why I am so proud to be a part of this organization as I enter my 10 th year on the board and first as President. We have a great organization and an outstanding community of support. Aurora is a great place to live, work and PLAY.