ISSUE
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Daniel Mata A SMALL TOWN KID WHO BECAME A NATIONAL CHAMPION
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James Hippett UK RESIDENT FINDS HOME IN AMERICA
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Joe Stevens FROM ENGLAND WITH LOVE
THE SOCCER COMMUNITY M AGAZINE PUBLISHED BY STORM FC
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Johny Hendricks MMA ICON TALKS BALANCING FAMILY COACHING AND HIS KIDS SPORTS
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Kayte & Nathan Brown FATHER DAUGHTER LOVE TO SPEND TIME TOGETHER
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Daniel Mata A SMALL TOWN KID WHO BECAME A NATIONAL CHAMPION
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James Hippett
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UK RESIDENT FINDS HOME IN AMERICA
Joe Stevens FROM ENGLAND WITH LOVE
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18 MMA ICON TALKS BALANCING FAMILY COACHING AND HIS KIDS SPORTS
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Johny Hendricks
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Kayte & Nathan Brown 26
Scott Allison
FATHER DAUGHTER LOVE TO SPEND TIME TOGETHER
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Daniel Mata A SMALL TOWN KID WHO BEGAN PLAYING SOCCER IN FREESTONE COUNTY AND BECAME A NATIONAL CHAMPION IN FLORIDA...HERES HIS STORY Danny Mata asked his parents to sign him up for soccer in 2010. He was 5 years old! Since that time, his love for the game was evident. Two years later his dad took the time to create a new team. This team had both boys and girls from the small Freestone towns of Wartham and Coolidge. That was the beginning of a father, Son relationship that has seen Danny's Dad build goals, construct soccer fields, create teams, travel to bigger towns for new teams and finally onto the national stage at the IMG Academy in Florida. “My Dad put together a team of Boys and Girls, my dad had to build the goals and for some games he even made the field!” The team that was put together by Danny's Father was soon beating all the City of Mexia local recreational teams. It was again time to look for a bigger pool of players and teams for Danny to continue his development. The closet city was Corsicana, about 30 minutes away from his home town. His new team, the tornadoes, required him to practice and play in Corsicana, a large commitment for both Danny, now 8 years old, his dad and their family. “My coach, Emilio Guido, was a really good coach”, Danny explains with a huge grin. This team experienced travel soccer, albeit, in a recreational team se ing. They would play as far as Cedar Hill, over an hour from Corsicana! Danny's last season in recreational soccer a er being told at a soccer camp that he should play academy (competitive soccer for U5-10 players) soccer bagged him over 20 goals.
Daniel's Dad found him an academy team in Dallas. It meant more traveling and hours on the road but his Dad wanted to keep his son on the pathway he was so enjoying. One fall season later, with the new team, and Danny wanted to quit soccer. Daniel's Dad hoped he would try another soccer club and coach to see if it would reignite his passion for the game. The summer of 2015 Daniel trained with a club out of Waxahachie with some boys older than him on a developmental team. “I loved playing with the older boys and became friends with them really quickly”. “I felt like I didn't fit in to their style of play and team, I just wanted to quit playing, it was at that moment that my dad told me he had spoken to a professional coach called Antony from a Storm FC club located in Waxahachie” Daniel joined the '05 Boys competitive soccer team. We asked him how he felt a er joining the team. “I joined the '05 team and instantly felt at home. I became really good friends with the other boys on the team. Our coach was the Clubs Director, Coach Antony. As a team we learned a lot. We had a dream of playing as good as coach Antony's '99 Boys team that were so successful, beating most team they would play around the country. I told myself I'm a '99 Boy to make myself do be er at practice and in games”. Storm Futbol Club from Waxahachie, has a Development youth player pathway. Within this pathway there are developmental programs, leagues, camps and a path for every player. Storm FC also has a pathway for the player that wants higher competition and a pathway to elite play
Daniel had the opportunity to play for Storm FC's Elite and Premier league team, City FC '05 boys. He would still play local leagues with his Storm FC team mates but also get to play in regional leagues on a national level, with like-minded players in the Storm FC organization. The organization plays in the following regional/national leagues: National Premier League (NPL) Red River Conference (Under 13 through U19 boys and girls) and The Super Y League (Under 11 through U19 Boys and Girls). Danny's team qualified for the Super Y League National Finals in 2017. The finals were being hosted at IMG Academy in Florida. Danny and his Father embarked on another journey....could the team become National Champions? Danny recalls his roller coaster emotions and feelings of his experience. “I remember playing the hardest I have ever played, I heard the coaches push me even further Push Mata Push, Yes, Yes, Yes Mata great job”.
“A er coach Antony told us we qualified for the Nationals, I remember thinking it would be a great experience to play the best teams in the country”. Storm FC and City FC had three teams represent at the Super Y league Nationals, 2005 boys, 2004 Boys and 2002 Girls. “A er our first games I felt like it was a dream because we were winning!” Danny's first game was against Bethesda SC U12, with a 2-1 win. Their second games was a hard fought 4-3 loss to Ironside Soccer Club, a mistake at the back lead to the loss. Going into the final game it was against Chicago Inferno 1 U12 Boys. Danny continues, “We knew we had to win for a chance to advance to the semi finals, it was a dream! During the game, I heard the other coach yelling. Their players were ge ing frustrated and we were controlling the game easily. We ended up winning 4-1, and advanced to the Semis!” The games were scheduled with one each day in order for the players to have the right rest and recovery, Danny's Dad had only booked hotels for the group games thinking that it would be a tall order to advance. A er a call to his wife, he had to rebook another room and let work know he wasn't coming back for another couple of days! The semi finals against Atlanta Fire Bayern Munich was an easy 5-1 win and progressed Daniel and the boys to the National Final. “The finals allowed us to prove to everyone that a soccer team in Waxahachie could become the best U12 team in the country! I was very nervous and so were my team mates but we were also very excited! The game was very tight. Near the end of the game our forward had a chance to shoot, he did... and he made it, Wahoo!! Almost immediately a er we scored another. The whistle blew and everyone was going wild, both coaches and parents! My Dad came and hugged me, you're a national champion, he said. Next thing I remember is the award presentation and holding the trophy and having photos taken with everyone!” “Winning the finals would show that a team in Waxahachie, Texas is the best team in the country, we were all excited but also nervous. Ge ing the late 2 goals in a tight game and winning was a dream come true”.
“Im proud of what we achieved at the IMG academy. When we first arrived people had no idea who Storm FC and City FC was, at the end of the finals everyone was in no doubt who Storm FC/City FC is!” Why Storm FC? Storm FC is like a family. We help each other. The coaches are always helping and pushing us to do be er. Win or lose we have fun and learn the right way to play soccer. It also helped me play at a much higher level. What's the best thing you like about Storm FC? I've always felt like I belonged here. I don't feel out of place and I feel comfortable. That's a great environment for me to get be er. At the awards banquet I get to see all my friends and the entire clubs players. I get to eat with my family and see players win awards for their successes, oh and I have won as well!
How far do you travel for practices and games? My Mom and Dad drive me about 1.5 hours to practice and then back again with over 1.5 hours for games. It has become easier now. I do my homework in the car on the drive and we have a schedule set so we are used to it. What do you feel makes Storm FC standout? The coaches and the positive a itudes our players have. We are not allowed to blame each other, we can only help each other and it's a team not a single player. I like that we pray together as a team before every game. We pray not just for us but for the opposition and officials too. What can you say about the coaches at Storm FC? I know the coaches are good because I've improved since I joined. They are always positive with me and show me what I'm doing wrong without screaming. I've never felt pressured to win, win, win, but I feel I have to improve as a player and team. What is your dream? My dream is to play in England with Storm FC, win the NPL and Super Y League again! A end IMG academy and try to get a scholarship for college to study sports science. Story by Antony Penna Photo Credit: Daniel Mata
PARTICK THISTLE FC PROFESSIONAL NORTH AMERICAN SOCCER SCHOOL - PARTNERS WITH STORM FC Partick Thistle FC will be conducting Storm FC pre season team camps as part of our Pro-Team camps series. Camps start July 23rd 2018. For more information please call 254.220.3284.
& Property Management From our first day in business we made the commitment to build long lasting relationships by serving our customers with honesty and integrity. We want to serve our customer base with character and purpose that brings honor to the FBM name. “Whenever we do work we should do that work as if unto the Lord, not as if we were working for man.” Colossians 3:23 Ennis Office 1905 West Ennis Avenue, Suite 204 Ennis, TX 75119 Corsicana Office 222 N Beaton St Corsicana, TX 75110 TEL (972) 878-7368 ext. 4 FAX (972) 875-5868
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James Hippett A LAW GRAD FROM THE UK FINDS A HOME IN AMERICA AND THE SOCCER INDUSTRY James' journey started in England where he completed his degree. Wanting a break from studies he was presented with an opportunity to coach soccer with Major League Soccer Camps in the summer of 2003. What started as a 7 month experience became a 15 year journey....and counting!! We asked James to share his experiences, thoughts and perceptions on a number of youth sports and soccer topics. James has responded with some very thought provoking answers and even return questions. What are your general thoughts on youth sports/soccer? In many ways, youth sports as a whole is at a significant crossroads. And not just here, but globally. Participation is continually declining and the commentary surrounding youth sports and the experiences people are having is ge ing consistently worse. There is far too much emphasis and a premium on elite athletics, it has become all about reaching "the top". That has become, in many cases, the sole driver for ge ing involved as young as 3-4 years old in some cases, and the single value proposition for many parents. The obsession to develop and to win is leading to bad behavior at the fields, and courts that we could all do without. The messaging has to change to engage The messaging has to change to engage families in a value proposition that meets the needs of all participants, while creating opportunities for those who need to move on to a higher level of play.
families in a value proposition that meets the needs of all participants, while creating opportunities for those who need to move on to a higher level of play. I am not anticompetition by any means. I played at a good level in my youth and understand the need for competition. However, everyone cannot get a college scholarship, and that is where the message of sports has unfortunately lost its way.
What differences have your experienced in Soccer by State or by Region? Soccer like many things in the US is largely decentralized, which means that structure and experiences can vary. I am fortunate to have traveled in the United States (7 more states and I hit the magic 50!) and have seen the game in many different areas of the country. A major difference in North Texas is the separation between recreational and competitive, they are almost entirely divided. In most other areas (including as close as South Texas) an organization offers both levels of play under its umbrella.
How do you view a youth organization's responsibilities to community, its memberships and families? I see it as a much broader responsibility than what is commonly delivered in the current climate. Advancing great athletes should be celebrated, athletic excellence should be celebrated. However, too many are being le behind and disregarded by sports because they cannot reach those levels of competition... those players and families gave the same time, financial contribution and many times the same effort, but are in a system that says they effectively have failed. Every organization needs to recognize that keeping kids in the game, whatever that game happens to be, is critical to community and societal success. Kids in sports learn skills that others don't develop... communication, being part of a team, overcoming adversity, perseverance, to name just a few. An organization needs to adopt behaviors and experiences that are more likely to keep families involved and engaged, instead of driving them away. “kids in sports o en learn valuable skills that others don't develop such as, communication, being part of a team, overcoming adversity, perseverance, to name just a few. An organization needs to adopt behaviors and experiences that are more likely to keep families involved and engaged, instead of driving them away. How do you view a youth organization's responsibilities to community, its memberships and families? I see it as a much broader responsibility than what is commonly delivered in the current climate. Advancing great athletes should be celebrated, athletic excellence should be celebrated. However, too many are being le behind and disregarded by sports because they cannot reach those levels of competition... those players and families gave the same time, financial contribution and many times the same effort, but are in a system that says they effectively have failed. Every organization needs to recognize that keeping kids in the game whatever that game happens to be) is critical to
From Storm FC’s organization coaches to volunteers and families, the messaging and public behaviors show that all members are commi ed and embody values that I would want my own children exposed to. There can be no be er compliment.
community and societal success - kids in sports learn skills that others don't develop... communication, being part of a team, overcoming adversity, perseverance, to name just a few. An organization needs to adopt behaviors and experiences that are more likely to keep families involved and engaged, instead of driving them away. What are some of the features you like most about Storm FC? Simple- the program is positioned to work as an alternative to the issues I stated above! There are opportunities for players and families to compete at a high level of play, but the foundation of the program is about so much more than that - families, character growth, community, age appropriate experiences... this is always best illustrated by the annual Storm FC banquet, which is an excellent event enjoyed by all of the membership. The work that is done off the field to
integrate the players and families into community projects is what has always been a stand out dierentiator to me. There is a consistent message and delivery of behaviors that emphasizes a commitment to the growth of a person alongside the growth of that player's soccer abilities.
“There are opportunities for players and families to compete at a high level of play, but the foundation of the program is about so much more than that - families, character growth, community, age appropriate experiences... this is always best illustrated by the annual Storm FC banquet�. Is there a legacy you would like to leave?
How do you see the future of soccer in the USA? The sports has a bright future indeed, if it can get out of its own way. By many measurements the US soccer marketplace must be considered the best in the world number of players, number of female players, number of organizations, emergence of a growing and increasingly successful professional league, grade of facilities. But the system is messed up, and everything has become about elite development. That message continues to drive people away every year. I am very critical of the governing body in all of this and believe they have the wrong focus. The next chapter, I hope, would be that new leadership brings about some change in policy and messaging. Time will tell, but we
Not a question I have considered before. I would like to think that our work creates a silent legacy of sorts - if we can help get the value of youth sports into be er focus for the leadership of organizations then I know we positively impact the experience and lives of thousands of people at a time, as sports is that powerful of a vehicle. I would like to play my part in creating that shi , as it is desperately needed. Story by Antony Penna Photo Credit: James Hippe
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The Browns FATHER DAUGHTER LOVE FOR THE GAME KEEPS IT A FAMILY AFFAIR The Browns are a family from Waxahachie, heavily involved with their community, church, schools and of course their girl's sports. Dad, Nathan Brown, Is a local teacher in Waxahachie, and is very active with his daughter's activities. Nathan coached both of his daughter's soccer teams through local organizations. He came to a crossroads when they both wanted more. “They needed more instruction and expertise than I could provide”, expressed Nathan. A er some research he found that Storm FC was a local club that provided professional coaching in a loving and Christian environment. “I am in my tenth year as a public school teacher and before that I was a Police officer so a strong sense of community and giving back, not just taking, is very important to me and my family”. That was 6 years ago, Nathan now is a team manager for his youngest daughter and an active board member for the organization. Kayte Brown (Born 2008), his youngest daughter, has a super strong passion for soccer. She started like her sister in the local organization, before joining Storm FC to fuel her passion in the right developmental environment. Kayte holds the title in Storm FC of being the youngest player to play in a competitive soccer team and league. while still only 8 years old she was competing with Under 11 girls in the Dallas competitive leagues, while other girls her age where playing in junior academy (U7-10) teams or recreational teams. We ask Nathan and Kayte about their time spent together in soccer, and core values that are important to them and their family on this journey of passion.
What’s your thoughts on youth sports? Youth sports and belonging to something bigger than yourself is very important in life as is becoming a positive and contributing member of your community. Some people would say, and I would agree in certain situations, that youth sports have become too rigged and competitive. My answer to that is the world has become very competitive. It doesn't ma er if you are talking about sports, ge ing into the school/program of your choice, politics etc. Our world moves at a faster pace now than ever before. If you don't merge onto this new fast paced highway with a full head of steam you will either be le behind or run over. How’s the dynamic with Kayte and yourself when working together on the team? My two daughters are complete opposites. The oldest one is extremely smart and plays with her head and doesn't care too much for physical contact. My youngest daughter is tough as nails, gri y, and would rather run over you than make a fancy move to go around you. Coaching each of them and now watching them respond to others coaching has taught my wife and I a lot about how to talk to and deal with their different personalities on the field, with school work, around the house etc. “the world has become very competitive. It doesn't ma er if you are talking about sports, ge ing into the school/program of your choice, politics etc. Our world moves at a faster pace now than ever before. If you don't merge onto this new fast paced highway with a full head of steam you will either be le behind or run over”.
Doe’s Kayte enjoy having her dad and family being so involved with soccer and spending time with her soccer? Kayte lives, eats, and breaths soccer. She hates it when games or practice is cancelled for rain. We spend a tremendous amount of time at the soccer fields between practices and games with the two girls but we are doing it as a family. We spend more quality time with each other during a routine soccer weekend than most families spend together in a week. “Kayte has been given opportunities to play on other teams within the Storm FC club. Some of these teams have been boys and others have been older girls. She loves competing against them all”. What are kaytes dream and goals? My youngest daughter made a road map to her ultimate goal of playing professional soccer and playing in the World Cup when she was only seven years old. She is ten today and that same road map is hung up inside her closet door where she sees it every day. Academy, competitive, NPL, College (Duke University), and finally the World Cup.
Kayte has played up through her time with us including playing competitive ahead of her time, what has her perspective been of the teams she has been on and where she is at now? My youngest daughter is very competitive and enjoys pushing herself and growing her skills as a soccer player. As she has done this she has been given opportunities to play on other teams within the Storm club. Some of these teams have been boys and others have just been older girls. She loves competing and trying to keep up with the o en bigger and faster players. She loves the boys division because she can play very physical and not get called for fouls. She likes the older girls teams because those are the stepping stones on her road map to playing professional soccer and in the World Cup. She also likes being everyone's "li le sister". Kayte’s most memorable moment with storm fc? Kayte will tell you without hesitation that it was winning the huge glass soccer ball trophy for the "Defensive player of the year" for the entire club. She will tell you that she beat out all the boys to win it.
Nathan and his girls have been involved with different youth sports clubs over their journey to today. We asked him what his experiences have been during that journey and what they are looking for in the future.
What are youth organizations responsibility to communities, its members and families? Youth programs and organizations have to stop simply being consumers of our time and money and give back more than just a fun 45 minute game one day a week. These programs need to be an extension of the families own beliefs and values such as working hard, being honest with yourself and others, se ing goals and taking steps to achieve those goals, team work, and feeling the importance and satisfaction of being part of something bigger than yourself or what's directly around you.
competing against yourself (run times, shots on goal, take aways per game) and not against someone else and belonging to something bigger and be er than yourself.
What makes Storm FC stand out from other sports organizations you've been involved with? Professional coaches. Men and women who have either played and/or coached at the professional and semiprofessional levels around the world. It's one thing to play the game and know the game but it's entirely different to be able to teach it to children. Storm FC is more than just a soccer team or a soccer club It is a family who happens to love the game of soccer. Storm is an extension of myself and my family. I would Not be a part of and certainly not allow my children to be a part of any organization that was in anyway contrary to our beliefs and values. What's the best thing/s you like about Storm FC? Easy! The coaches. We have the best. My daughters coaches love and care about them as young ladies first and soccer players second. Their first words at practice aren't how many touches did you take during the weekend but rather how was your weekend? What did you do? How was your sister's birthday party? How is your mom feeling? They know and care about my daughter's whole life not just her soccer life. What values are important to your child’s development that are encouraged at Storm fc? Commitment, Hard work, se ing goals, pushing yourself to be the best that YOU can be, comparing and
Do you think players at Storm FC could develop be er as a person? And why? Yes, as an educator I know how important it is for every young person to feel loved, safe, encouraged, and surrounded by adults who believe in them if they are to flourish as a student, person, and as a stake holder in their community. They experience all this as a Storm FC family member. “Storm FC coaches know, love and care about my daughters not just what they can do for them on the field for that one weekend but what They can do for her to help them reach their goals and become great young ladies along the way”.
You have been involved with annual events we host, how do you see them fi ing into your values? It's the special moments like the annual banquet that allows you to see and experience your teammates and coaches on a whole different level. It doesn't happen every day, week, or month. It's kinda like celebrating a birthday. It happens once a year and it is a BIG deal. We get dressed up for it, we look forward to it, and we celebrate our accomplishments together. Tournaments are great because the girls ride together, stay in the same hotel, swim together, eat together, and just build their bond and relationships off of the soccer field.
NORTH TEXAS FITNESS & THERAPY CENTER RED OAK TEXAS
How do you see the future of soccer in USA? Unfortunately, there will always be politics involved but I believe the women's side of soccer is exploding in popularity as well as ticket and merchandise sales. It is a great time to be a young lady in the game of soccer. Story by Antony Penna Photo Credit: Nathan Brown/Antony Penna
NORTH TEXAS FITNESS & THERAPY PROUDLY SUPPORTS STORM FC’S PROGRAMS Dr. Marcy Maines, PT, DPT is the treating physical therapist at North Texas Fitness & Therapy Center. She has a bachelors degree from Texas A&M University, a masters degree from The University of Texas Medical Branch, and a doctorate degree from Texas Tech University. Dr. Maines has been an out-patient therapist for 15 years and is ready to provide quality service in Ellis county.
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Johny Hendricks A WRESTLING ICON, UFC CHAMPION INTERNATIONAL SPORTS STAR PERFECTLY BALANCED WITH FAMILY, FRIENDS AND GOD A phone call to Storm FC's Technical Director, Antony Penna, asking about playing in for an academy level soccer team for his daughter to continue her soccer development was the start of a journey that now sees Johny Hendricks' children train and compete with Storm FC's various programs and teams, as well as his wife volunteering in the day to day operations by joining the club's board. Johny had a love for wrestling, he began his wrestling legacy from the tender age of 5. Johny was and is an athlete, also from 5 he played basketball, soccer and 7th grade football. From High school he went on to wrestle for college powerhouse OSU. At state he won 2 national championships and placed second in his senior year. Reaching those achievements, Johny wanted a new challenge, that challenge? Fighting.
In 2007 Johny started a career in fighting, Mixed Martial Arts was the fight of choice. In 2009 he signed for the then emerging mainstream MMA fight promotion organization, the UFC (Ultimate Fighting Championship). Johny became UFC world champion in 2014. Becoming a professional athlete requires hours and hours of dedication. Johny had to balance this with having a family and the needs of family life. We take a look at how Johny balances family life, four kids, a wife, country life and being professional athlete.
“The reason I got where I am now is because of God and a family who cared about my future”.
Spending time with Johny he enjoys talking about many different topics and sports, but he shows a fondness for soccer and a respect for its multifaceted strengths, abilities, physical demands and technique required for its athletes. He also shares in his stories of places he has played the sport in. Growing up he played a variety of sports, “I love youth sports, I think that's where you can make an athlete. Youth sports develops athletes at a young age with much needed discipline, key for all aspects of life. Soccer is an amazing sport because you not only need eye and hand coordination, but also the need to know when to advance or when you need to pass. It makes kids understand their own limitations and skills.
A er a season of Abri, Johny's oldest daughter playing a year up, it was time to build a team of age pure girls of her age (she was born 2009). It was time to invite his daughters friends and soccer players to join the journey of further development. Johnys' wife became team manager and then a board member to help shape the direction of the club their family and friends were heavily involved in. “One of the most important things I would say about storm FC is the family atmosphere”. Part of the Storm FC way is to highlight and live out the sustainable values. Soccer is competitive but it's also important to be a good person, our values messaging and duty of care develop Storm FC players into great community leaders and adults that parents can be proud of. “Each Storm FC team pray before their game and that means a lot to me. The coaches know how to teach the kids and how to reach each one of them as well. They have many more qualities that makes Storm FC the place for my kids”. During the 2009 girls season the Hendricks' had all their kids in a Storm FC program. Riggsy, their youngest participates with Coach Erica in FUNdaMINI's, a program for kids 18 months old to 6 year olds. Coach Jerry coaches younger age teams and has a knack of having kids that have never thought about playing soccer fall in love with the game. “The reason I love soccer for my kids is because it's a sport that teaches them how to use their eyes to see the field and use their brain in decision making and problem solving. The best thing about soccer is when you see my girl move the ball to make a pass from one side of the field to the other that opens up players from one side to the other, all with maybe one or two touches. I like soccer, I also played soccer because it's about core strength, legs and mind, all of which sports need and you can't forget cardio either. When I was wrestling, soccer was the closest thing for me to play and to get in shape”. From what I have seen yes. We asked Johny if his profession allows him to be with his family? “With what I do yes and no. The best way that I can balance my life is by having a wife that can
do many things. I make sure that I plan each week meticulously. In each week my coaches, my job and my family know where I need to be, I make sure that at least one game on the weekend for my daughters I will come and watch and support them. Johny knows how much it means to his children that he comes and supports them in their soccer games, “In my opinion its important in a kids life to have both parents at their activities, on the bonus side I love watching them compete more than myself competing, it's great to support them in something they love so much”. Each team in the Storm FC organization knows a lot of the other families on other teams. The club banquet brings that together, however, teams also have families that travel up to 3 hours to come to practice and games! The time spent with each team's players families makes it important that everyone bonds well. “In our group I know that we will help parents out that have problems ge ing them to and from practice. The soccer fields isn't the only place we see each other. We try to do things as a group and have our kids mold together outside of soccer. We have a family that travels from over an hour away that we also do skills training with, that’s how we help each other”. “Like I have said before, Storm FC’s coaches care for the kids as if their own and would do anything for them. When you are brought up in that environment you see the kids want to try hard for the coach and to be er themselves”.
“My profession has taken me all over the world. I've experienced different cultures, history and met some amazing people all with a story to tell. But, the most awesome thing about traveling for my job is the ability to take my family with me. I have taken them transAtlantic to different countries in Europe, one of my favorites being Germany”. Johny's career is sports and it's the sport hat has given him the precious time and travel with his family as he continues to make memories and create stories for him and his kids to share. Seeing johny take an active part in raising and supporting his family, able to watch every game and most practices all while having a high training schedule, as well as giving back to the sport of wrestling by coaching young kids where he is passing on his knowledge and experience to help others become success while also helping any number of his close friends without ba ering an eye lid is truly GODS gi . To finish off our conversation we asked Johny, what does it take for someone to do what you have done? “If you want the opportunity to become a high level athlete, I would say you need to train like there is someone else watching you and they want to beat you everyday, because it's the truth! but until you understand that what I do today I can change tomorrow you are moving in the right direction. Also pu ing hours on mi s and BJ”. Story by Antony Penna Photo Credit: Johny Hendricks/UFC
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Joe Stevens AN ENGLISH GENTLEMAN SWITCHES THE MIDLANDS FOR SOUTH DALLAS...ALL FOR LOVE Joe always had a passion for soccer, it was a sport that ran in the family. Joe comes from the English Midlands, Birmingham (pronounced Burr-ming-numm!!) to be exact. Joe's dad was a soccer player he then moved into coaching, his mother was a life long Birmingham City fan, which meant Joe had no choice in who he was to support! So it wasn't a surprise that Joe followed in his footsteps. His playing and coaching journey has taken him from a er-school coaching to a professional English club team coaching. A er leaving school Joe's first real job was coaching soccer at the tender age of 16. He worked with the youngest players and passed on as much knowledge as he could. However, the main focus was always to make sure all the kids had fun. “I loved it!” Joe said. He continued, “I'm not sure my actual coaching would have been the greatest looking back now, but that only comes with experience and education which I worked at ever since”. Joe continued his passion of coaching and passing on knowledge of the game into and a er his college years.
“Coaching has led me across Europe, and the Americas, although the highlight was to coach for my boyhood soccer team, Birmingham City FC”.
Joe was always looking to get be er. He achieved this through continuous learning (The English FA, coaching license program), “It's so important not only in coaching but also in life. I'm yet to meet anyone who knows everything... although a few people have thought it!”. Soccer is the biggest sport in the world, with no exception, but it's also a small industry. Everyone in
wherever they are in the world”. Joe was lucky enough to make a lot of great friends and connections through the game in many different countries. “This gave me great opportunities. Some of my coaching highlights were traveling across Europe, coaching at my boyhood club Birmingham City, coaching and playing at the home of English soccer, St. Georges Park and so much more. My Dad told me that if I was lucky enough to do what I loved for a career, I would never have to work another day of my life, that's how I feel!” “I love how vibrant of a city Dallas is, there's always something to do. Living in Bishops Arts also allows me to walk to some places more like I’m used to back home in Birmingham”. Through Joe's coaching trips he met his future wife. Together they spent time in Birmingham, England and then finally se ling down in South Dallas. We talked to him about his new life in Dallas and later about his thoughts on Texas soccer. What differences have you experienced between Birmingham and Dallas? “Well number one, as you may have guessed, is the weather. Another is that you have to drive everywhere. I'm lucky enough to live in the Bishop Arts district so I can walk to some areas, but anything else is a drive. If I drove four hours in England I would end up in the sea, here I just end up in a different city! Birmingham and Dallas are similar in many ways though and I have been made to feel at home here by everyone I have met. I love the vibrant city and that there is always something to do, just like back in Birmingham. Sport is also huge in both cities, which is another reason I feel right at home here.
Joe Photo Here
What are the highlights of Dallas for you? “I I love the Bishop Arts district, Downtown and Deep Ellum. I love watching live music, whether it's at the Kessler theater or the American Airlines Center. My wife and I are big movie fans, so we o en go to the Alamo Dra house to watch the best new films or even old classics”. “Soccer is the biggest sport in the world, with no exception, but it’s also a very small industry. Everyone in top level soccer know each other!”
What things do you miss most from home?
lot less common and that some kids only play soccer when they go to practice. In comparison it leaves a lot of time where they aren't playing. I know there are positives and negatives to both cultures, but that does make a difference. “Kids in England play soccer morning, noon and night, school breaks, a er school, at home, and the local park. kids are always playing, ge ing loads of touches on the ball, problem solving and most of all creating organic play.” What differentiates Storm FC from other local clubs including English soccer clubs? For me that's simple, Storm FC is a club and a community. Most other clubs I have seen in North Texas are teams, individual teams, that have one coach and that's it.
“Despite what everyone says, I do miss ENGLISH food. Birmingham is a very multi cultural city with a long history. We are famous for our Indian food, so I do miss a good curry. I miss being able to go and watch the soccer games of my club, Birmingham City, or even going to watch my friends play their games in the lower leagues. I obviously miss my family and friends, but they made it very clear they will be visiting...a lot!”
How do you see youth organizations responsibilities to communities, their memberships and families?
Because Joe's a professional soccer coach from England it was important to understand what differences he has witnessed during his short time here between youth soccer in England (The midlands area) and North Texas (DFW area).
What are the best things you like about Storm FC?
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What are differences have you observed at various youth ages between players in England and the USA? “I think the only real difference I've observed is technique. No fault of the kids or coaching. I believe it's a cultural thing. In England there's lots of sports and options, but soccer is king, it's the national game. Kids play soccer from sunrise to sunset, during school breaks, a er school, at home, at their clubs, the local park, they're always playing, ge ing touches on the ball and most of all creating organic play. School, parks and street soccer is where kids make up the rules, the teams, the outcome and also have the right to change them...all while playing! Here in the US, it seems it's a “
To me youth sports and organizations are there to do so many things, but they must all have the same focus. To create well rounded people who will go on to be members of society and positively impact the local community.
Storm FC reminds me of the best aspects of European soccer clubs. It's all about the community. Not only providing soccer to the community, but also being a focal point in bringing people together. Supporting local issues and causes. Giving families the opportunity to play and excel at the sport we all love. One example I saw early, which really confirmed that I wanted to be a part of Storm was at the annual banquet. This was an opportunity to bring everyone together, but what really stood out to me was the recognition for volunteers, the people that make it all possible. This showed me that Storm was a club that understood what really makes a community club, it's the people within it. Winning trophies and championships is nice and is what us coaches can focus on, but that would not be possible without the members of the community who give up their free time to help improve the practice fields or
take their day off to help set up tournaments. These things are what really defines a club and creates an environment that teaches our young members the key values we want to pass on. Do you think children at Storm FC could develop be er as a person? And why? Yes, because of the culture and the philosophy that has been set out by Antony Penna. This is passed down to all coaches, managers, volunteers and parents. Is there a legacy you would like to leave? There's a small percentage of players who actually make it to the professional level. I will always strive to give my players that opportunity, but I don't want to be remembered for the one player I got to play professionally. The legacy I want to leave is one that has a positive impact on these young people's lives, no ma er how small or large.
side and we won all of our games that season, but it was a wild bunch to say the least, so for me the environment I created in the classroom and on the field had to be right. At times it was tough, unfortunately not everyone made it through to the end. Flash forward two years there's a knock on my door and in steps one of my former players, he wanted to stop by to have a chat and 'catch up' He began to talk about how he was still playing and that he had signed to play semiprofessionally, which was great to hear. He continued Coach Joe, as he is fondly now called, Coaches the Storm FC ‘07 Boys (born in 2007), ‘05 Girls and the elite City FC ‘05 boys teams. Joes’ teams at Storm FC have competed locally an as far as Arkansas in NPL competitions (National Premier League). to tell me that he wanted to thank me for what I had done, my reply was sure, that's no problem, but he stopped me and said again, no seriously, thank you for what you did, I know I wasn't the easiest to deal with back then, but you and the other members of staff pushed and never gave up on me. I got my qualification and now I'm not only playing soccer, but I'm working at school full time and I love it. To hear he was still playing was nice, but to hear that he was working full time at a school is something that really hit home. This was somebody who didn't really a end school when he was that age, somebody who I was lucky enough to have an impact on and play a small part in their life. Story by Antony Penna Photo Credit: Joe Stevens/Antony Penna
My proudest moment from coaching does not actually involve anything on the field. When I was in England I was working with a college, coaching their soccer team and teaching. The college focused on giving people from varied backgrounds, the opportunity to get an education and also play soccer. The team was a great
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Scott Allison PROFESSIONAL SOCCER PLAYERS CAREER ENDED BY INJURY WAS SCOTLANDS GAIN OF MODERN COACH Sco Allison is a much traveled Sco ish man. He grew up in the major city of Glasgow, Scotland with football, or soccer as we know it, being a huge part of his life from a very young age. Sco is a close friend of Storm FC's Technical Director, Antony Penna. Sco currently works for the professional soccer club Partick Thistle. Thistle Weir is the youth division of the professional club which has seen its methods and playing philosophy evolve Patrick's youth setup into one of the most respected in the nation. In this article Sco sits down with our very own Antony Penna to discuss his days growing up, to his present position at the height of the Sco ish professional soccer league. Sco 's father was a huge soccer supporter and took a young Sco to many professional league games from the age of 5. Sco and his friends would always play in the streets. None of his friends nor Sco would receive much formal coaching until about age nine or ten. “I knew physically I wouldn't be able to have a long term career as a player due to chronic injury problems”. He started playing for the school team at age nine, o en playing with players two or more years older than himself. Very soon he was selected for the Glasgow district schools select teams. While playing for the school district team, it wasn't long before a few local clubs came to watch him play. A er a few months some of the Sco ish professional clubs would regularly invite him to train at their clubs. Motherwell FC (A premiership professional soccer club) was his primary club to train at, although other clubs would still invite him to practice as well. Unfortunately injuries throughout his teenage years
forced him out of the structured game for a bit. Although feeling fi er Sco tried playing for St. Mirren later in his teens, but injuries still plagued him. Sco made it to full time professional soccer player in Scotland in his early twenties having 20 professional first team appearances for the Sco ish League's number two team, East Stirlingshire (2003). With his nagging injuries, his dream to play soccer professionally wasn't happening. So around this time he decided to start coaching as a backup if his injuries wouldn't stop. Sco talks to us about his backup plan that turned out to be a care er full of excitement, traveling the world, rubbing shoulders with the best players in the world and doing something he truly loves. Sco , we know you have had it hard in your playing days with injuries but tell us how you got to where you are now in your professional soccer coaching capacity? “It's been a long, mostly enjoyable journey to where I am today. I’ve been a full time professional coach for the past five years, working at Partick Thistle Football Club who play in the Sco ish Premiership. Previous to this, I spent three years working full time for the Sco ish Football Association as a senior football development officer. This role delivered coaches education courses for the FA, as well as developing and implementing a wide range of football [Soccer] initiatives in communities throughout Scotland. During the eight years of full time coaching, I also worked part time for clubs as a youth coach, with clubs such as Glasgow Rangers, Livingston and St Mirren working with many young players, a number of whom have gone on to very good professional playing careers.
Overall my journey began as a young player but when the injuries made playing at the highest level seem impossible I decided to put all my efforts into becoming educated to become a coach. Overall it's taken around 20 years or more of continual learning to get to where I am now. A er your professional playing days were over, how did your coaching career build to become one of the most respected youth coaches in Sco ish Football [Soccer]? “My journey started at Glasgow Rangers FC when the then head of youth development, Tommy McLean, invited me to the clubs training ground for a few weeks to gain experience in the coaching side of the game to see if I liked it. I got the chance to shadow some great coaches and watch training sessions with some quality players. At that time, Dick Advocaat, was the Soccer clubs professional teams manager (Later Holland [Nederlands, Dutch] Manager) I got to learn a lot about the Dutch [Nederland, Holland] playing philosophy and see players like Ronald De Boer up close. I had the chance to speak to players like that and ask them what type of coaching they preferred. Everything I learned from these players and managers built the fundamentals to my beliefs as a coach so I have a lot to thank Glasgow Rangers for. Other influencers in building my philosophy was my former coach Alec Cleland. Alec was a huge influence in the opportunities I had in my formative years as a coach. Alex had played in the UEFA [United European Football Association] Champions league for Rangers FC and in the English Premiership with Everton before having to retire early due to injury. He was my coach at East Stirlingshire in Sco ish League Two and encouraged me to work as a community Coach at Rangers FC with him. Alec later moved to Partick Thistle FC to coach the U19s and he invited me to go with him. Alec then moved to Livingston FC in the Sco ish Premiership and recommended to Partick Thistle that I become their youth coach. I was offered the full time role at the Sco ish FA from Thistle, so I will always be grateful to Alec for the support and opportunities he gave me when I was making the transition from player to coach. Coaches need mentors and organizations
that give you opportunities when you are young and I am thankful I took them when they came along. ““I knew physically I wouldn't be able to have a long term career as a player due to chronic injury problems”. You have shown that you can begin as a youth coach and progress to a full time professional club youth director. What does it take to get you there? “First and foremost hard work. It's a tough, unforgiving industry and you need to be prepared to work every day to improve who you are and what you know. I have been in the game all my life but I am still learning. I have just returned to Scotland from two weeks at Benfica and learned so much from observing their training sessions and being around the club. You have to be open minded and keep learning as the game changes all the time. I've known many coaches who think they know it all and because they win a few trophies think they have unlocked the secrets to the whole game. But for me these guys get le behind as the game evolves. You have to keep learning to give your players the best possible knowledge transfer to help them find a way in the modern game. The second thing you need, is to be a good people person. If you can use your personality to get the best out of players, it helps them to buy into your training methods and philosophy. The best tool to have as a coach is to know how to get players fired up, ready for games.
Story by Antony Penna Photo Credit: Sco Allison/Antony Penna
Sco , we have known each other since around the millennium, from working in Scotland to the states, where else has coaching taken you? And what's the differences in each country? “I've been fortunate that my career in sport has taken me right around the world. I've been to Australia, New Zealand, all over the USA, Spain, Portugal, Scandinavia... the list of countries is huge. But the one thing I've found that is common everywhere is the passion for football [Soccer]. People love the game and those who love it become dedicated to it. It's the ones who are dedicated that become successful and I've seen players start as young kids and fulfill their dreams of becoming professionals. In terms of how countries approach the sport, each country is very different. The countries that have impressed me the most were Spain and Portugal. I was fortunate to spend time at clubs like Valencia CF (Spain) and Benfica (Portugal) to learn how they develop their players - some of those players now play for teams like Manchester City in the English Premier League - and their approach is similar in that they focus a lot on learning the game and allowing players to become decision makers. In some countries players are over coached and quite robotic, whereas in Spain and Portugal players can make decisions on the park [field, pitch] and execute the right decision because they have been taught the technical skills and tactical understanding of how and when to do it. I'd say these countries are the ones where my football [soccer] philosophy aligns to most. “There's a lot of good stuff happening at the club similar to the top pro clubs I've been a part of or observed in my career”. Sco has spent time in the States. While being here he had the privilege of coaching some youth players in Waxahachie, Texas. Sco coached at Storm FC and has seen firsthand the comparison between our players and those around the world and in Scotland. During his visit to the club, we were able to discuss at length various topics that could help us improve the experiences for our families and players. Sco a er your time at the club what's the best thing(s) you like about Storm FC?
“I liked the community feel of the club. There are a lot of good coaches and the work guys like Antony do, is phenomenal. They are 24/7. I thought the players we worked with had fantastic a itudes and the way they conducted themselves really impressed me. They seemed really keen to learn and for me a lot of this is down to how the parents and the club are educating them. There's a lot of good stuff happening at the club similar to the top pro clubs I've been a part of or observed in my career”. “I think there is a good playing philosophy in place at the club. I liked the plans that the club showed me and there is a definite focus of development first which is important. Youth players will become successful long term at clubs that focus on the process of development and I felt that Storm FC has a good environment for player development”. “I think there is a good playing philosophy in place at the club. I liked the plans that the club showed me and there is a definite focus of development first which is important. Youth players will become successful long term at clubs that focus on the process of development and I feel that Storm FC has a good environment for player development. So a er some time coaching youth teams at Storm FC did you see some differences between them and other clubs you have been involved with? I've visited many clubs in the USA and while I think it would be tough to compare US clubs to pro clubs in Europe, I think in terms of what I've seen in the USA Storm FC has a real community feel to it that I've not seen at other US clubs. There are clear objectives and players are coached well. Sometimes I feel in the USA there is too much pressure and focus on winning in the youngest age groups and this can take away the enjoyment and development of the players. But I felt Storm FC had a good balance of both which was good to see. I would say though that generally in my experience with youth clubs in the US, it is British players that have more advanced technical skills and tactical understanding than the American players. However, the US players are be er athletes and have be er a itudes
towards training. US players definitely work harder. What I do think is great is the fact that Storm FC has its own facility. This is something a lot of clubs struggle with in the UK. What are the football clubs responsibilities to their communities, memberships and families, in Scotland and do you think Storm FC has embraced this? “I think soccer clubs can help young people develop a wide range of skills that can help them become effective contributors to society. Discipline, timekeeping, valuing teamwork, leadership, achieving results as a group. The list goes on of many skills they can learn that can be transferred into the local community. Storm FC seems to be teaching a lot of good values which hopefully has an impact on the wider community”. So you have traveled extensively throughout the United States in youth soccer and the professional game, most recently with Red Bulls NY. Where do you see the future of American Soccer heading? “I see the professional clubs starting to grow youth academies more but I think they will find it tough to replicate models of European clubs due to the sheer size of the nation. It will be tough to have regular national competitions at the youth level. So for me, I think clubs like Storm FC have a massive part to play in the development of the game. If players stay with the club until their late teens then move on to pro soccer or college then the club will be doing a good job in helping the national game. It's an interesting time in US soccer but there are too many organizations and a lack of a clear national strategy at the moment so it will be interesting to see what direction the country takes over the next few years. Moving back to Partick Thistle FC and Sco Allison, what's you playing philosophy and what's next for the future of Sco ? I believe in purposeful possession. All players in a team should be comfortable on the ball and be good decision makers. A ractive, a acking football with aggressive defensive pressing is how we play. I am happy in my current role but whatever happens in the future I will
always aim to keep learning and keep developing as the game continues to evolve. There's a lot changing in Scotland at the moment one thing that needs to improve is the number of young players breaking into first team squads. This is up to the players to be good enough to warrant selection from managers. I always say if you can learn one new thing every day by the end of the week you will have developed as an individual. If each player does this while working with us, and becomes be er players as a result of the experience then we will be happy with that. We also hope the share of coaching knowledge can also benefit Storm FC in the long term. This article has been an insight into youth soccer coaching. What advice could you give to anyone that would like to become a coach? “Keep working hard and enjoy playing. Don't be stressed out about the end destination (playing higher). Just enjoy playing. When you stop enjoying it, that's when you are at a level that doesn't suit you. If you enjoy it that's the most important thing”. For those already in their coaching career keep learning. Expose yourself to good coaches and good clubs to learn from. Don't ever think you know everything as you don't. Complete education courses but remember that these are just a recognition of competence, a badge [Coaching license] doesn't make a good coach. Good experience leads to good knowledge and good knowledge will lead to good training methods. Good training methods will develop good players. It's all a process and it's up to the Coach as to what direction they want to go in”. Sco and Partick Thistle partner with Storm FC in order for the coaches and players of Storm FC to gain be er knowledge and experiences in the development process. Storm FC is commi ed to giving our families and players the best possible experience and cu ing edge coaching methods through partnerships such as these. Both clubs share coaching education, methods, philosophies, and coaches' retreats to Scotland to experience first-hand professional youth and professional league coaching methods.
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Rangers F.C PROFESSIONAL SCOTTISH SOCCER CLUB PARTNERS WITH STORM FC TO TEACH MODERN COACHING METHODS TO OUR TEAMS Storm FC has a partnership with one of the most recognizable soccer clubs in Europe, Scotland’s premiership club Glasgow Rangers FC. The partnership has the clubs best coaches come to our training facility in Waxahachie and perform Professional pre season team camps for some of our teams. Rangers coaches will be staying for 2 weeks this summer. Starting July 9th 2018. The relationship between the club and Storm FC is one of which continues to develop and evolve over time. The technical director Antony Penna shares our belief in developing young players and providing them a platform that will allow them to flourish and enjoy playing the game.
How to Register for the camps couldn’t be any easier. For Storm FC teams, they will nominate a week for the 5 day 3 hour camp. Camp times are either 9-12, or 69pm. If there is space on a team camp, then any player from the community may apply to register. Please contact 254.220.3284 | antonypenna@stormfc.co.uk for more information.