As the head coach of Team Dynasty, a group of talented and driven under-10 girls in Midland, TX, I am proud to say that coaching has been one of the most rewarding and fulfilling experiences of my life. But if you had asked me five years ago if I ever saw myself as a coach, I probably would have said no. In fact, my journey to coaching began with a simple email.
It all started when I received an email one day that changed everything. The email was a call for a volunteer coach for the soccer season, and the only way my daughter, Faith, could play was if someone stepped up to coach. With no prior coaching experience, I had a decision to make: step out of my comfort zone or let my daughter miss out on playing the sport she loved. After a bit of thought, I decided to volunteer, and that’s how my journey into coaching began.
At the time, I had very little understanding of coaching soccer. But what I did have was a deep love for sports, an unyielding drive to help young athletes grow, and a fierce desire to learn everything I could to be the best coach for my team. I dove headfirst into the world of coaching, spending countless hours researching online, attending coaching camps, and observing practices. I knew I had a lot to learn, but I was ready for the challenge.
Looking back, I can confidently say that my growth as a coach parallels the growth I’ve seen in my team. From those early days, when I was learning alongside my players, to now—where I lead not just one, but two teams within the Midland Soccer Association—every step has been a learning experience.
One of the most fulfilling aspects of this journey has been the relationships I’ve built with the girls on my team. The bond I share with these young athletes, many of whom have been with me since that very first season, is something special. In fact, I’m proud to say that 90% of the girls who started with me five years ago are still playing together on Team Dynasty today. Their growth on the field and as individuals has been incredible to witness.
But what I cherish most is the way we’ve grown as a family, both on and off the field. Coaching isn’t just about teaching soccer skills—it’s about shaping young minds, building confidence, fostering teamwork, and instilling values that will last a lifetime. These girls are not only learning how to play soccer, but they are also learning how to be leaders, how to support each other, and how to rise to challenges, both individually and as a team.
Short Bio: Coach Ivan:
As a coach, I strive to create an environment where each girl feels valued and motivated to be the best version of herself. Whether it’s celebrating a well-played game or helping a player through a tough moment, my goal is to inspire confidence, joy, and passion in every one of my athletes. The growth I see in them, both on and off the field, is what fuels my passion for coaching.
I’ve learned so much along the way. As a parent and a coach, I understand how important it is to lead by example—showing the girls what it means to work hard, stay positive, and embrace challenges with an open heart. Coaching isn’t just about winning games—it’s about instilling a love for the game, helping players develop important life skills, and showing them that success comes through perseverance and teamwork.
Looking ahead, I’m excited about the future of Team Dynasty. We’ve built something truly special, and I’m incredibly proud of how far we’ve come. Our journey is just beginning, and I can’t wait to see where it takes us next.
I am beyond grateful for the opportunity to coach these amazing young athletes, and I look forward to continuing this journey with them, one goal, one game, and one season at a time.
If there’s one thing I’ve learned through all of this, it’s that the power of sports goes beyond the field. It’s about the lessons we learn, the friendships we make, and the memories we create along the way. I’m excited to keep sharing this journey with my players and their families, and I’m thankful for every moment that’s brought me here.
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