Most of us have had an exceptional coach in our lives. Someone who, even as an adult, we can hear their words giving us encouragement or we think about what they would do in a similar situation. When you volunteer to coach that youth soccer team full of excited little 8 year olds, you don’t realize the impact that you are having on them. How your words to them now will help grow and build their self esteem. Think about your experiences with a coach, or a teacher in your young life. What words or actions stand out to you about them?

My junior year in high school I had a cheer coach that was awful. She would show up late, scream and yell at us. It made the year not that much fun. She resigned at the end of that year, and we got a new coach. It was a rough transition. My 17 year old self didn’t like the way the new coach did things, didn’t like the way she was changing things. But in time, she grew on me and I learned to respect her. Why? Because she held her ground, was respectful and consistent. Everything a teenager needed. 17 years later- she’s one of my best friends, and I think of how she would react and handle a situation almost daily.

There are coaches everywhere, not just on the ball field or court. There are coaches in every aspect of our lives, even though we may not realize it. Did you know that here at Savory Foods all of our sales reps have been or are currently coaches, PTO board members or other group organization members? They have walked in your shoes of being a coach. They know the difficulties that you are facing day in and day out. They are also here to coach you through your fundraising process. They have the tools to succeed; you just need to follow the game plan. They have the words of encouragement you need to motivate your group to be successful.

So the next time you hear “Hey Coach! Put me in!” Be sure to recognize the impact you are having on their lives.