At Copper Mountain Soccer, great coaches are measured by more than wins, losses, trophies, or championships. While competitive success is valued, Coach of the Year recognition is reserved for coaches who embody our club’s mission and values and make a lasting impact on their players’ lives.
Coach of the Year nominees should demonstrate excellence in the following areas:
Player Development
Exceptional coaches help players improve technically, tactically, physically, and mentally. They recognize individual strengths, provide meaningful feedback, and create opportunities for players to reach their full potential.
A Coach of the Year develops players, not just teams.
Positive Influence & Confidence Building
Great coaches see potential in players before they see it in themselves.
Nominees should consistently encourage, support, and inspire players, especially during difficult moments. They help athletes build confidence, resilience, and self-belief both on and off the field.
Culture & Team Environment
Coach of the Year candidates create an environment where players feel valued, respected, and connected.
Their teams demonstrate positive relationships, strong sportsmanship, accountability, inclusion, and genuine support for one another. Success is measured not only by results but also by the culture that exists within the team.
Character Development
CMS believes soccer is a vehicle for teaching life skills.
Nominees should intentionally help players develop leadership, communication, responsibility, problem-solving skills, respect, and strong character. Their influence extends beyond soccer and contributes to the growth of young people.
Commitment to Players Beyond the Game
Outstanding coaches invest in players as individuals.
Whether helping a player navigate adversity, providing guidance during challenging times, or assisting with opportunities beyond youth soccer, Coach of the Year nominees demonstrate a genuine commitment to their players’ long-term success.
Sportsmanship & Club Values
Nominees model professionalism, integrity, respect, and sportsmanship in every interaction with players, parents, referees, opponents, and fellow coaches.
They represent Copper Mountain Soccer with humility and class while fostering a positive environment for everyone involved in the game.
Impact Over Outcomes
Championships and competitive achievements may strengthen a nomination, but they are not the primary criteria for selection.
The strongest nominations demonstrate how a coach has positively impacted players, families, teams, and the broader CMS community.
What Makes a Strong Nomination?
Strong nominations include specific examples of how a coach:
- Helped a player overcome adversity.
- Built confidence in a struggling athlete.
- Created a positive and supportive team culture.
- Developed leadership and character in players.
- Assisted players in pursuing opportunities beyond club soccer.
- Demonstrated exceptional commitment to player development.
- Made a lasting difference in the lives of players and families.
The highest honor at Copper Mountain Soccer is not simply winning games. It is helping young people become confident players, strong teammates, effective leaders, and outstanding individuals.
