March 12, 2024 • 36 mins
This is an encore episode while I focus on my teaching.
This week's guest is Shannon Hartinger
Being a soccer rat myself, Shannon and I agreed from the outset to avoid 'talking soccer'. This was very difficult for us as the boys Wisconsin State League team that I coach begins training this week and Shannon's high school girls team at Loyola Academy has been playing matches.
For this episode, we talked about the TOPSoccer program that is sponsored by US Youth Soccer. TOPSoccer (The Outreach Program for Soccer) is a recreational sports program for children and adults with intellectual, emotional, or physical disabilities offered only through local US Youth Soccer-affiliated soccer clubs. The program provides people with diverse abilities an opportunity to play soccer in a structured environment that is safe, fun, supportive, and inclusive.
If you know of someone who's interested or would benefit -- or for clubs that would like to bring TOPSoccer into their program -- visit their website HERE. As a soccer person, I'm proud to know that the game I love is available to more people.
Check out the brief video HERE to learn more!
Note: Oftentimes, links are not available on platforms such as Apple, iHeart, etc.. They are available within this episode on our website at https://lifesaroadtrip.podbean.com
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Transcript
Episode Transcript
Available transcripts are automatically generated. Complete accuracy is not guaranteed.
(00:00):
Being disabled or having a chronic illness can feel like you're moving forward in reverse.
(00:21):
I'm your host Scott Martin.
Join me and my new friends in this underrepresented community as we talk about disrupting the
status quo and creating change within the world and within ourselves.
A life's a road trip.
Hop in.
Let's turn on some tunes and go.
(00:56):
This man to passenger seat in managing the radio is Shannon Hartinger.
Shannon has a bachelor of science degree from North Carolina State University and a doctor
of physical therapy from Duke University.
She holds her US Soccer Federation D license and is a staff coach for Chicago FC United
and is the head coach of the Girl Soccer Program at Loyola Academy.
(01:17):
Shannon also oversees marketing communications for a US youth soccer program titled Top Soccer.
Hi Shannon.
Hi Scott.
Thanks for having me today.
Oh yeah.
Fantastic.
I'm really happy to be able to talk some soccer but if we start getting off on a tangent, the
show is going to change into something different so we're just going to put a stop sign on
that.
You just had a training weekend get away with your high school girls team.
(01:44):
Tell me about how that went.
It was actually a fantastic weekend.
I'm the fortunate varsity soccer coach at Loyola Academy in the suburbs of Chicago and
this year I have 16 new players to my roster joining nine returners.
So a weekend away was much needed as we look to integrate the newcomers to our team.
(02:07):
It was a lot of fun, a lot of team building activities, high ropes courses, some fun including
a I call it a dollar store fashion show where the girls have to create a fashion outfit using
potential materials.
Yeah, it's just a lot of fun and a really great opportunity to get away before we really
hit the field this week.
(02:29):
Yeah, so regular training starts this week?
Yes.
We officially begin tomorrow.
When's your first match?
Our first match is a week from Monday.
So March 13th.
And you guys are going to really just start get rolling that I'm sure.
Yes, as long as the weather cooperates as you know in Northern Illinois, that can be an
issue this time of year.
(02:51):
Well, I'm in central Wisconsin.
We're hoping I put a date I think of April 4th for our players to be aware of that's
when we're going to start training and it's all going to come down to Mother Nature.
We know that.
Hey, tell me about your experiences as a young soccer player.
You know, as you heard a kid.
So I actually grew up in the South.
I'm originally from South Carolina.
(03:13):
And so I started playing in South Carolina where actually soccer wasn't the biggest sport.
They're especially for girls.
So there really weren't any girls teams or girls travel teams where I grew up.
So was actually part of one of the first girls teams from South Carolina that really competed
you know, outside of our state regionally and nationally.
(03:35):
Following, you know, my time as a youth soccer player, I ended up playing collegial at North
Carolina State, the Wolfpack.
And after my playing days transitioned into the coaching world.
Are you still playing on an adult team or anything at this time?
Unfortunately, I am not.
(03:57):
I have unfortunately suffered a few too many knee injuries.
And so I hung up boots officially, probably about seven or eight years ago.
Okay.
And you were an attacker.
Did you go to college as an attacker or did you transition into the front?
No, I've actually been a forward my whole life.
(04:19):
I played for my high school team.
I played as the center mid just because our, you know, usually we didn't have a lot of
club players on my high school team.
So I transitioned into that role, but primarily made my living as a forward.
Okay.
Well, make your living as a forward can be tough at times.
Yes.
Yes.
I totally understand that.
(04:40):
How did tell me about getting into coaching?
When did that all start really?
So I was fortunate with going to school in the triangle area of North Carolina to be
around some really great soccer clubs.
So I got my start coaching with the Capitol area soccer league, which has now transitioned
to become, I think it's North Carolina football club, but at the time castle was one of the
(05:04):
largest youth soccer clubs in the country and it served kind of all different levels.
So they had youth, they had kind of an intermediate level called challenge and then they had
classic, which was the travel league.
So I was fortunate to start coaching there and, you know, working with some of the younger
players in the club and then was connected with some other coaches where I was an assistant
(05:25):
coach.
So that was really the start of my career.
And then when I moved to the Chicago area after physical therapy school, I actually
one of my patients, her family was involved in soccer here and they suggested that I reach
out to the Trevi and soccer club.
And so I did.
And then the rest is history.
Isn't it funny how we start going in one direction with this game and it carries us
(05:50):
all over the place.
I can look back and at 40 years of coaching and just can't figure out how the heck did
I get from one thing to the other.
Opportunities just come up because you start rubbing elbows with certain people.
They know people and you start going off in a different direction.
Absolutely.
And I think sometimes in my life, I thought maybe this is the end of my connection to
(06:14):
soccer or the end of me working in soccer and then it goes in a different direction and
it's never going to.
It's never going to.
No, you're in it.
You're in it.
You're a soccer rat.
I'm in it forever.
Oh yeah.
Hey, no pun intended here, but how did it go with juggling soccer and your graduate studies?
That was very interesting.
(06:36):
I do think I will say when I think about soccer, it's always helped me lead a fairly balanced
life in that I've had to manage.
I've had to manage my time as a player and then especially in colleges, student athletes.
So I think as I was in physical therapy school at Duke, I was still coaching and I think
it just helped my time management and really helped me get down to studying when I needed
(06:58):
to study.
But it was also a nice break and some time away that I could clear my head and then be
fully present for my time in PT school.
So it was a good way to balance, but yes, it was definitely a lot to juggle at the time.
But I was used to it.
So I think a college athlete really does force you to manage your time impeccably if you want
(07:19):
to be successful.
Oh yeah, one of those very important things.
How did you end up transitioning and getting over to where you're coaching at with a lawyer
like Academy?
So you know, again, through the connections of the soccer world, a player I had coached,
her parents told me that the position at Loyola was open and reached out to me and thought
that I might be a good fit.
I wasn't quite sure if I wanted to make the leap to the high school game.
(07:42):
At the time, I was really focusing on my day job as a physical therapist and I was focusing
on top soccer.
But I did decide I wanted to interview and at least give it a shot.
And then, you know, I think through the interview process, there was a lot at Loyola that spoke
to me as a person and as a coach.
And so when the offer was made, it was hard for me to say no, because it just, it felt
(08:03):
right.
So.
I did some digging into Loyola Academy.
It seems like there's a lot to offer there and that the type of kids you're able to work
with.
Are you pulling, able to pull kids and get a view of them from their clubs?
I mean, compared to when you were a kid, you mentioned that there weren't many club players
going around on the female side.
(08:24):
Are you finding more club players that are able to come to you at Loyola?
Absolutely.
I think one of the things that really spoke to me this year was one of our assistant or
sorry, one of my JV coaches is a former player from Loyola and she commented on how the talent
overall from all levels has really grown since her time playing, which was not that long
(08:48):
ago.
So I think to me, that's a statement to what the clubs in our area are doing to develop
young females.
So, you know, we pull from a lot of different clubs and we're not a club specific school
at all.
We really encourage our players to play where, you know, might fit best for them and their
lifestyle.
We have a lot of multi-sport athletes.
So, you know, there may be a girl that plays club volleyball and wants to commit to club
(09:10):
soccer, but maybe not at the same level as another player does.
So we really encourage players to find what their fit is and, you know, hope that in the
off season that they're getting touches on the ball and that they'll be ready to go
usually in late February.
So you're getting players that are coming to you, playing from the heart and they really
want to be playing.
I mean, it's so much easier working with kids like that.
(09:31):
Absolutely.
I mean, you could see it from day one of tryouts, just like how excited the girls were to be
out there.
And I think the high school experience gives them something maybe a little bit different
than their club does.
You know, they really have a lot of pride in playing for their schools.
So everything they approach, which is a bit more intensity because it is exciting to play
and represent your school.
Yeah, that's really cool.
(09:52):
Let's venture off into top soccer.
Now I found the acronym.
I was wondering what top soccer meant.
It's spelled capital T, capital O, capital P, capital S for soccer.
So it's all together.
I found the acronym, the outreach program for soccer.
Yes.
That's simple.
It is.
That just makes sense.
I thought it was going to be a little bit more elaborate than that, but the outreach program
(10:14):
for soccer.
That's great.
So the name says it all.
It does.
How did you get in or involved with that through?
Now this is going through a USU soccer federation, correct?
Correct.
So it is going through the USU soccer through USU soccer.
For me personally, I was doing one of my diploma courses through the...
(10:36):
It's now called United Soccer Coaches, but at the time it was called the NSCAA.
I was doing one of my diploma courses in...
I believe I was in Elmhurst, Illinois.
We were all introducing ourselves and a gentleman by the name of Sean Danhauser started speaking
and talked about his coaching and what he does.
He mentioned a program called Top Soccer and how it's a buddy soccer program that really
(11:00):
pairs typically developing athletes with athletes with a variety of abilities.
He just talked more and more about Top Soccer.
My ears spread up and I was like, this sounds like something I would really like to do.
We ended up connecting and after that course ended up starting the program at the club
(11:22):
at Trevie and FC United where I was coaching, where I coach.
How long have you been with Top Soccer?
I always have to look because sometimes I really can't believe how long I've been with Top
Soccer.
It really is one of those things that is a true love and so I feel like when I think
about how many years it's been, I think we are on, if I have this correct, sorry, I have
(11:46):
to actually get.
Our first season was in the fall of 2013.
We are approaching our 10-year anniversary, which is so exciting.
There were a few seasons that we didn't play because of COVID, but we typically run a program
in the fall and in the spring.
I'm going to go right now and open the tab for the program, Top Soccer, and folks that
(12:13):
are listening should understand that of course the link for that is going to be on Lyser
Road trip website.
I'm reading up about a symposium that's coming up.
That's the first thing that pops up and it says USU Soccer is proud to announce the
2023 USYS Top Soccer National Symposium being held in the western suburbs of St. Louis from
(12:36):
April 14 to 16, so that's coming up.
It says it's a free event, brings together state associations and local program leaders
from across the country, the sharpener skills in implementing Top Soccer within their state
and communities, featuring a broad array of subject matter experts and motivational speakers,
the symposium offers value for everyone from the most experienced Top Soccer coach to the
(12:58):
novice looking for an introduction.
This event is being held at the Sheraton West Airport or Westport.
Tell us about the symposium.
So this year's symposium is something we're all really excited about.
I think, you know, I know there's been a lot of planning involved by members, some of my
fellow members of the National Top Soccer Committee.
(13:20):
They've brought in some remarkable speakers to entertain and to educate the crowd or the
attendees.
Some of them include, you know, I think an OT and PT in a session that's called Partners
in Practice.
Again, this is all a draft.
I'm pretty sure the final agenda is coming out, so this is some inside information.
(13:42):
But I think that, you know, again, as I was saying, OTs and PTs looking at partnerships
and practice, looking at some sensory and behavior strategies that might be important
in a session.
They've brought in, I think, an adaptive PE teacher, which would, you know, I work in
the schools and I work very closely with APE.
And so thinking about how some of the APE ideas may also apply in a Top Soccer session,
(14:09):
they're bringing in one of the, you know, one of the things I'm really excited about
is they're talking about bringing in a retired police officer who will talk about the connection
between Top Soccer programs and first responders in the area.
And I know that some of our programs have done some sessions with first responders,
and it's been a huge hit with parents and players all around.
(14:30):
So that's a session to look forward to.
And then I think they're also going to talk about like festival planning and talk about
some marketing and PR strategies.
So just really a lot of great stuff on the agenda for the symposium.
I'm extremely impressed.
When I first started getting into US Soccer and coaching my God, 40 years ago, none of
(14:54):
this was there.
And I actually first came across and I'm looking at it right now.
It's on the Top Soccer page.
It's a video and it's available on YouTube.
That's what, I think it came across to me in an email from the US Youth Soccer because
I get that stuff all the time as a coach.
And I saw that video and then I, that's when I started digging and I came across you and
(15:18):
your title I thought you were the person right to.
And that's how we started and got to this point.
So I'm extremely impressed with, well, also, they're putting some money into this.
Not only just at the symposium, but overall, and then we'll get into a little bit about
the state associations.
So I'm extremely pleased to know that a sport that I'm so deep into is doing something
(15:44):
that's so important.
And I'm very happy to be talking to you about this too.
So why don't you carry us off into talking more about the whole gamut of what's going
on with Top Soccer and what it's all about?
Yeah, so I think like you hit the nail on the head.
I think US Youth Soccer has made such a strong commitment in so many ways to Top Soccer.
And I think you're seeing that all come into fruition with the symposium and just the presence
(16:10):
of Top Soccer within the US Youth Soccer Organization.
If we really think about the athletes that US Youth serves, they serve everyone.
If you include Top Soccer, you know, so Top Soccer all the way up to the elite level athletes.
So I think, you know, for me, being part of an organization that really thinks about everyone
is really important.
(16:31):
And I think we know in our sport there are so many leagues and there are so many opportunities
for players to play.
And I love that US Youth Soccer has a program for everyone, truly for everyone.
Again, it's great.
I'm going back to the web stage and I'm taking people through this as I went through it and
learning about the program.
(16:53):
Go down to benefits for participants.
Well, first of all, Janet, explain what type of kid shows up for this.
So really Top Soccer, I know the program that I run, we encourage anyone to come out to
our sessions.
We run, our sessions are free.
We're fortunate with the club.
We have great support for uniforms and for balls and for other equipment.
(17:16):
So we're able to provide our program free of charge.
And so I always tell parents who email me who made seem nervous about their child having
their first sport experience with us that really, because it's free, you're not committing
to anything other than just giving us a try.
And I realize that our program may not be for everyone, but I hope that everyone can get
something out of it.
(17:37):
So we have children with all different levels of abilities and all different diagnoses.
You know, I could list off probably 100 different diagnoses that we have from our players, but
really at the heart of it, we just have kids who have different, you know, who maybe learn
differently, who communicate differently and who move differently.
And I think that's the beauty of Top Soccer is that there's no one way or there's no one
(18:02):
player that we're looking for.
We're truly just looking for anyone who wants to, wants to play soccer or may just want to
come meet some really great people and hang out with their buddies.
So we really offer a little bit for everyone.
The video, I think, represents that quite well on the fun that's happening in the low
pressure.
I mean, no pressure.
(18:23):
Yeah.
I think that's probably for me the most important thing to maintain is that kids feel safe when
they come to our program and that, you know, really there is no expectation for you're
going to do X or you're going to do Y or you're going to do Z, that it's truly your program
can be what you want out of it.
You know, we have some kids who really are competitive and they love playing at our competitive
(18:45):
small sided games.
And then we have other kids who really don't, you know, they're just, they want to work
on their skills and they enjoy that opportunity to connect with their buddies socially.
I always call this backyard soccer and I try to present that when I first started coaching
when I was a freshman at college.
That sort of attitude, of course, we'd have to have some drills and some things, but basically
(19:06):
back off towards the end of the training session and just let the kids go, find the
side, some of us, you know, whatever, because that's where they're going to pick it up.
We're going to differentiate between those kids that are there because mom and dad paid
for it or those kids are there because they just start loving the game.
And I think that's a one way to rope these kids in and get them involved and start moving
some things forward with where it's at.
(19:28):
Right.
And then when we think of just the benefits of sport in general, so any of any movement
and health and wellness, I mean, there are so many benefits that we could probably talk
for days just about the health benefits of, you know, sports, athletics, even, you know,
more important for some of our kids who may not, you know, have a lot of movement opportunities.
So yeah, the benefits are endless and I think the benefits are mutual for the buddies and
(19:53):
the players and even the coaches.
I mean, I know every week I leave there feeling just so great.
My cup is so full after working with our athletes and our buddies.
But I do think the buddies get so much out of the experience as well, which is what, you
know, is really important.
And I think contributes, if they are a soccer player, it also contributes maybe to their
formation as a soccer player as well.
(20:15):
I want to ask you about the buddies, but first, because the show is starting to take off,
we're going to take a two second break in case someone, we have advertisers that want
to drop an ad in.
So we'll be back in just a second.
Okay.
So tell me about buddies.
I went into this, of course, from my perspective thinking, oh, here, coaches and the upside
and stuff.
(20:36):
But a lot of it is about the buddies.
What is it?
What is a buddy at this program?
So for our program, the buddies are right at the heart of our program with our players.
I'm fortunate because I'm part of a soccer club where I can pull probably 80% of my
buddies from the club.
So that's an easy ask is to get the players to come out to the field at least once per
(21:01):
season.
We obviously want to see them as many times as possible, but at least once to see what
our program is about.
And from there, they often bring a friend or a sibling or their teammates, which is
awesome.
But really, the buddies are the true coaches on the field.
I think we give them a blueprint, but the buddies are the ones who are really facilitating
the session, which is a beautiful thing to watch.
(21:23):
And I think I love that the buddies recognize what their players need as well.
And sometimes the buddies might realize that their player may not want to kick the soccer
ball too much today and instead talk with them.
Or sometimes they're working on different skills or showing them different moves or
they're helping them play whatever games that we're playing.
So what's a typical age for a buddy?
(21:44):
So I think that couldn't vary between programs.
But I know in our program, we typically have kids who are 12 and older that are buddies.
We've occasionally incorporated some junior buddies within our program and I'll typically
pair them up with an older buddy, which has been awesome because they can also help facilitate
the session as well.
So I think we typically stick to 12 and older and then we'll pull in some junior buddies
(22:08):
who express an interest and want to be a part of it.
So it's one thing, so another, you can start them off as a junior buddy and then maybe
the next year or two years and they might have a brother or sister.
I mean, it just starts to expand.
Yes.
I've learned never to say no to someone who wants to volunteer for something.
So I figure let's find a way and I'll be honest, you know, if a parent emails me and maybe
the buddies, not quite ready to handle it, I'll give them that feedback.
(22:31):
But for the most part, the junior buddies have really enhanced the experience for our
players.
Very cool.
Now you mentioned earlier, did I pick it up?
Make sure that this is correct.
So it's a ratio of one to one player to buddy.
A lot of that depends on our numbers.
So sometimes we can actually have two buddies to one player.
(22:53):
Sometimes we do want two buddies to one player, but depending on our numbers, there are weeks
where actually can have three players or three buddies for one player.
So we typically one to one is our gold standard, but we're always happy to have more buddies
if needed.
Okay.
I want to go down the list now.
I'm still on the USU soccer page.
Come on on top soccer.
(23:15):
Getting started.
Yes.
We'll read a couple of these.
Identify the need in your area for what type of disabilities you need to plan or you
able to fulfill these needs.
Check for any restrictions placed on the facility to plan to use.
Check and of course, here we go.
Big caveat.
Soccer insurance carrier.
We know that that's important.
So it looks like there's a key to mention before.
(23:37):
There is a blueprint that USU soccer uses.
And now I'm going to click on my state association of Wisconsin youth soccer.
And I go on to their page under the top soccer.
And I'm looking at, we've got a program administrator of Megan Ward.
Yes.
You know with Megan.
(23:58):
Yes.
And I'm looking down at what's coming up.
So this is for 2023.
It states we are continuing the W Y S A. Wisconsin youth soccer association top soccer sessions.
The sessions session is for top soccer athletes, individuals, cognitive or physical disabilities
who are looking for competitive environment to further their soccer skills.
This is open to males and females ages 13 to 20.
(24:22):
That's a nice broad range.
Age exceptions can be made with a recommendation from local coach.
So it's loose.
I mean, that's the way it should be.
Now session information.
Interesting how the timing is.
But this episode actually is going to drop after the start.
So March 12, 19 and 26 are when these sessions are.
And they're going to be at Eli soccer park at the Assertura fields down in Milwaukee from
(24:48):
9 to 10 a.m.
So three different sessions from just an hour long, not overtaxing kids.
That's a good amount of time for focus.
Now for $3 that includes all three sessions and a t-shirt.
And then there's a little place on here for click to register.
And so that goes through with what they've done.
(25:12):
How does a state association pick up and become part of or get under the umbrella for
US soccer and the top soccer program?
So it sounds like what you were referring to was something that the state association
itself was hosting for their top soccer athletes.
So I would liken that to something like an ODP state program.
(25:37):
So really with that's a statewide program.
It sounds like open to any top soccer athlete, maybe even an athlete who's not part of top
soccer and just saw something and wants to join.
Beyond that, each of our state associations will typically have a top soccer director.
Like I'm the Illinois soccer association top soccer director.
(25:59):
Ronnie Andrews is the top soccer director in the state of Wisconsin.
So any local club or person that's interested in starting a program could go to the top
soccer director as their first point of contact.
And typically what I've done and I just took over for Sean Danhauser in Illinois.
So we've been doing this together.
(26:21):
But we've had a few programs that are interested in starting in Illinois.
And we've typically just scheduled a meeting with them to just kind of start the conversation
about the things you mentioned, identifying need.
Are there already existing programs in your area, just starting at the very base as a
first meeting and then giving them a few tools to kind of get them on their way to either
(26:44):
answering more questions, asking a few more questions, or maybe some are ready to go right
away.
Typically a club or organization would contact the state association top soccer director.
If there's not one, they could contact their state association.
And then from the state association, they could be pushed to our region directors.
But most of our state associations have a designated top soccer director.
(27:08):
It does sound a lot like the same sort of branches of a tree of the Olympic development
program.
Okay, so talk to me, Shannon, as if I was a parent that heard about this and someone
pointed you out on a soccer pitch and just said, oh yeah, you go talk to her about top
(27:30):
soccer program.
So I'm a parent coming to you.
Tell me about, you know, maybe I've got my kid in tow.
And how would you handle that situation?
Well, I think first and foremost, I would find out the, I would get the information from
the parents so that we could add them to our email distribution list to let them know about
our upcoming season.
(27:51):
I would talk to them about our program.
And like I mentioned earlier, I really encourage anyone who is considering joining a team or
is interested to just come out to one of our sessions.
Like I said, there's no fee involved.
Just try it out, see if they like it.
And if they don't, that's okay.
If they do, we'll see them the following week.
But you know, we do, I mean, there is some registration and paperwork we like to collect
(28:13):
medical information to make sure that there's nothing we need to be aware of.
Or if, you know, there is medical information that we need to be aware of, we can pass that
along to our buddies that are working with that player.
But really anyone who's interested, I would just encourage them to, there's actually a
map on the top soccer website that kind of goes by state and then it takes you to each
(28:35):
state association, then you can see all the programs in your state.
So that's, you know, you can see geographically where there are programs that might be near
where you're located.
Oh yeah, it's large.
When I opened that, I was just blown away with not just how many states, but how many
clubs within the state?
This is huge.
And again, I'm proud to be part of that organization and what you guys are doing.
(28:59):
Yes.
And it's, I feel like it's growing.
I mean, I know alone here in Illinois, I've met with three different clubs since the start
of the year that are interested in starting a program.
So very cool.
There you have it.
Wow.
And there's really, there's no number of kids to start a program, you know, programs.
I know when we first started our program, I think we had maybe eight to 10 kids and we
(29:21):
now manage between 50, 60, 70 kids in a state.
So, you know, really, there's no specific number that you're looking for.
And you'll find that I think within the community of a lot of our players' families, they have
a community and they have a network of other players who might be interested.
So the next thing you know, you only had five or six kids and then you, now you have 20
(29:42):
kids who want to play soccer.
Yeah.
Okay.
Well, it reminds me about soccer back in the early 80s when I first started going with
your way up to over a thousand kids in our community.
So your physical therapist in the school district.
I am.
I take it, the top soccer, I could tell.
I just, I listen to you, this is in your heart.
(30:05):
Yes.
I mean, this is really part of you and I think it's a natural for you to be doing that.
Where do you see yourself or where do you see yourself going with this?
Could this catapult you into some other direction?
Do you think you've settled into where you're at?
I mean, what's going to be happening for you personally now?
(30:27):
You know, I think I'm at the point in my life where I truly want to do things that continue
to fill my cup.
And like you said, are in my heart.
And so, you know, top soccer is really at the top of the list.
I wish I could do it every day all day, but unfortunately I have to do my other job.
But I do, no, I do.
(30:48):
I think I'll just want to continue to be a part of it as, you know, as long as I can.
And I hope that we can continue to give every kid an opportunity to play soccer that wants
to play soccer.
And I think the beauty of top soccer is it's truly at the grassroots of the game.
As we've seen, you know, other, you know, we've seen growth with our extended national
(31:09):
teams in US soccer.
And, you know, top soccer might be the first entry point for some of the athletes that
one day play for one of our extended national teams.
And, you know, you never know which kid is going to come into your program that might
end up playing, you know, on our seven-aside parrot team, for instance.
So I think for me, it's just making sure that we can capture as many kids as possible
(31:31):
in our sport.
And I think this is just one more vehicle to do it.
So I hope I can be involved with it, you know, for the rest of my life.
Hands down, the USU soccer has somebody in you.
You've got this.
Yes.
Totally got this.
So talking about shift in direction and things.
We want to do this.
(31:53):
We are now going to go into what we call the road trip roundup with you, Janet.
And it's five questions about you and road tripping.
Okay.
I have a feeling maybe something might be here doing with road tripping in soccer, but whatever.
All right.
So, question number one, Janet, when road tripping, do you tend to do fast food or local diners?
(32:14):
Oh, definitely local diners if we can.
Okay.
Very cool.
Definitely local diners.
Okay.
I would imagine though, if you're on a team bus, who can accommodate a bunch of kids,
right?
I will say I've always been fortunate to have amazing team managers and they find the best
food places.
So I don't know.
(32:35):
I'll go with those as much as possible.
Okay.
As much as possible.
I've been to Panera probably a thousand times.
Okay.
All right.
As many soccer team.
See, you know, that's not bad.
I like that.
All right.
Number two, your dream car for a road trip.
That can be something that you grew up grew up with in road tripping of the family.
Something you have now or something you would maybe even rent to go on a road trip.
(32:58):
So I would say more recently in my adult life, I've had a Jeep Wrangler and I think I would
have to say that's probably the most ideal vehicle for a road trip for me as a Jeep Wrangler,
but the weather warming up that I could have the top of the Jeep off.
Okay.
There you go.
I was wondering if it was going to go towards the convertible.
Yes.
Now, you're on the younger side.
(33:20):
Maybe I'll throw this out there anyway.
Laska set or CD.
Yeah, you'll fit there.
Laska set or CD that played while you're on a road trip.
Oh, this is a tough one.
This is such a tough one.
I cannot.
I'm so proud.
I'm sister Hazel.
(33:41):
What the heck music is that?
Exactly.
There's sort of, I don't know, they're just like one of my favorite bands of all time.
Our wedding song was one of their songs.
Like, I don't know.
I just love them.
So this is good road trip music.
Kitty Catega Rice, sister Hazel for me?
Um, like classic rock.
(34:04):
No.
No.
Punk.
Punk?
No.
Like, no, I'm not.
So here's the other full disclosure.
I'm not like a super music person.
Um, but what would I classify them?
I was kind of like rock, but not like hard or heavy metal or anything like that.
Look, I'm all, they're great.
Okay.
All right.
All right.
Four straight up, coca pepsi.
(34:28):
I have to say coke.
My grandfather worked for coke.
So if I say pepsi, I would be disowned.
Was he down in their corporate offices in Atlanta, Georgia?
No, he was actually in Wicksburg, Pennsylvania.
Wicksburg.
Okay.
Yes.
So I have to say coke.
Okay.
But still coke.
I understand.
All right.
Last one.
(34:49):
You carry this wherever you want to, lady.
All right.
Okay.
What's your favorite road trip memory?
I would have to say my, I believe it was just my mom, sister and I on a road trip some
place.
I don't think my dad was with us, but I think it was just the three of us.
(35:10):
And we talked about what we would do if we won the lottery.
And I just always, we always go back to that.
And it definitely passed the time.
So I was still waiting to win the lottery though.
Okay.
All right.
Still waiting.
Still waiting.
Somehow I have the feeling though that even if you want a couple of mill or multiple mill,
you'd still be doing what you're doing.
(35:31):
100%.
Yeah.
It would all probably go back to top soccer.
There you go.
Okay.
All right.
Well, we're at the end of our show.
I'm just going to say challenge relax everybody and Shannon and what I'm going to hit stop here
in just a second.
But you and I stay on for a couple minutes.
Okay.
All right.
Thanks kiddo.
Thanks for listening.
(35:53):
Check out previous episodes with new ones dropping each Tuesday.
If you don't see a synopsis of this show where you're listening, visit our website at
life's a road trip dot pod bean dot com for more information on this week's guest.
This is your host Scott Martin reminding you that life's a road trip.
Being disabled or having a chronic illness can feel like you're moving forward in reverse.
(00:21):
I'm your host Scott Martin.
Join me and my new friends in this underrepresented community as we talk about disrupting the
status quo and creating change within the world and within ourselves.
A life's a road trip.
Hop in.
Let's turn on some tunes and go.
(00:56):
This man to passenger seat in managing the radio is Shannon Hartinger.
Shannon has a bachelor of science degree from North Carolina State University and a doctor
of physical therapy from Duke University.
She holds her US Soccer Federation D license and is a staff coach for Chicago FC United
and is the head coach of the Girl Soccer Program at Loyola Academy.
(01:17):
Shannon also oversees marketing communications for a US youth soccer program titled Top Soccer.
Hi Shannon.
Hi Scott.
Thanks for having me today.
Oh yeah.
Fantastic.
I'm really happy to be able to talk some soccer but if we start getting off on a tangent, the
show is going to change into something different so we're just going to put a stop sign on
that.
You just had a training weekend get away with your high school girls team.
(01:44):
Tell me about how that went.
It was actually a fantastic weekend.
I'm the fortunate varsity soccer coach at Loyola Academy in the suburbs of Chicago and
this year I have 16 new players to my roster joining nine returners.
So a weekend away was much needed as we look to integrate the newcomers to our team.
(02:07):
It was a lot of fun, a lot of team building activities, high ropes courses, some fun including
a I call it a dollar store fashion show where the girls have to create a fashion outfit using
potential materials.
Yeah, it's just a lot of fun and a really great opportunity to get away before we really
hit the field this week.
(02:29):
Yeah, so regular training starts this week?
Yes.
We officially begin tomorrow.
When's your first match?
Our first match is a week from Monday.
So March 13th.
And you guys are going to really just start get rolling that I'm sure.
Yes, as long as the weather cooperates as you know in Northern Illinois, that can be an
issue this time of year.
(02:51):
Well, I'm in central Wisconsin.
We're hoping I put a date I think of April 4th for our players to be aware of that's
when we're going to start training and it's all going to come down to Mother Nature.
We know that.
Hey, tell me about your experiences as a young soccer player.
You know, as you heard a kid.
So I actually grew up in the South.
I'm originally from South Carolina.
(03:13):
And so I started playing in South Carolina where actually soccer wasn't the biggest sport.
They're especially for girls.
So there really weren't any girls teams or girls travel teams where I grew up.
So was actually part of one of the first girls teams from South Carolina that really competed
you know, outside of our state regionally and nationally.
(03:35):
Following, you know, my time as a youth soccer player, I ended up playing collegial at North
Carolina State, the Wolfpack.
And after my playing days transitioned into the coaching world.
Are you still playing on an adult team or anything at this time?
Unfortunately, I am not.
(03:57):
I have unfortunately suffered a few too many knee injuries.
And so I hung up boots officially, probably about seven or eight years ago.
Okay.
And you were an attacker.
Did you go to college as an attacker or did you transition into the front?
No, I've actually been a forward my whole life.
(04:19):
I played for my high school team.
I played as the center mid just because our, you know, usually we didn't have a lot of
club players on my high school team.
So I transitioned into that role, but primarily made my living as a forward.
Okay.
Well, make your living as a forward can be tough at times.
Yes.
Yes.
I totally understand that.
(04:40):
How did tell me about getting into coaching?
When did that all start really?
So I was fortunate with going to school in the triangle area of North Carolina to be
around some really great soccer clubs.
So I got my start coaching with the Capitol area soccer league, which has now transitioned
to become, I think it's North Carolina football club, but at the time castle was one of the
(05:04):
largest youth soccer clubs in the country and it served kind of all different levels.
So they had youth, they had kind of an intermediate level called challenge and then they had
classic, which was the travel league.
So I was fortunate to start coaching there and, you know, working with some of the younger
players in the club and then was connected with some other coaches where I was an assistant
(05:25):
coach.
So that was really the start of my career.
And then when I moved to the Chicago area after physical therapy school, I actually
one of my patients, her family was involved in soccer here and they suggested that I reach
out to the Trevi and soccer club.
And so I did.
And then the rest is history.
Isn't it funny how we start going in one direction with this game and it carries us
(05:50):
all over the place.
I can look back and at 40 years of coaching and just can't figure out how the heck did
I get from one thing to the other.
Opportunities just come up because you start rubbing elbows with certain people.
They know people and you start going off in a different direction.
Absolutely.
And I think sometimes in my life, I thought maybe this is the end of my connection to
(06:14):
soccer or the end of me working in soccer and then it goes in a different direction and
it's never going to.
It's never going to.
No, you're in it.
You're in it.
You're a soccer rat.
I'm in it forever.
Oh yeah.
Hey, no pun intended here, but how did it go with juggling soccer and your graduate studies?
That was very interesting.
(06:36):
I do think I will say when I think about soccer, it's always helped me lead a fairly balanced
life in that I've had to manage.
I've had to manage my time as a player and then especially in colleges, student athletes.
So I think as I was in physical therapy school at Duke, I was still coaching and I think
it just helped my time management and really helped me get down to studying when I needed
(06:58):
to study.
But it was also a nice break and some time away that I could clear my head and then be
fully present for my time in PT school.
So it was a good way to balance, but yes, it was definitely a lot to juggle at the time.
But I was used to it.
So I think a college athlete really does force you to manage your time impeccably if you want
(07:19):
to be successful.
Oh yeah, one of those very important things.
How did you end up transitioning and getting over to where you're coaching at with a lawyer
like Academy?
So you know, again, through the connections of the soccer world, a player I had coached,
her parents told me that the position at Loyola was open and reached out to me and thought
that I might be a good fit.
I wasn't quite sure if I wanted to make the leap to the high school game.
(07:42):
At the time, I was really focusing on my day job as a physical therapist and I was focusing
on top soccer.
But I did decide I wanted to interview and at least give it a shot.
And then, you know, I think through the interview process, there was a lot at Loyola that spoke
to me as a person and as a coach.
And so when the offer was made, it was hard for me to say no, because it just, it felt
(08:03):
right.
So.
I did some digging into Loyola Academy.
It seems like there's a lot to offer there and that the type of kids you're able to work
with.
Are you pulling, able to pull kids and get a view of them from their clubs?
I mean, compared to when you were a kid, you mentioned that there weren't many club players
going around on the female side.
(08:24):
Are you finding more club players that are able to come to you at Loyola?
Absolutely.
I think one of the things that really spoke to me this year was one of our assistant or
sorry, one of my JV coaches is a former player from Loyola and she commented on how the talent
overall from all levels has really grown since her time playing, which was not that long
(08:48):
ago.
So I think to me, that's a statement to what the clubs in our area are doing to develop
young females.
So, you know, we pull from a lot of different clubs and we're not a club specific school
at all.
We really encourage our players to play where, you know, might fit best for them and their
lifestyle.
We have a lot of multi-sport athletes.
So, you know, there may be a girl that plays club volleyball and wants to commit to club
(09:10):
soccer, but maybe not at the same level as another player does.
So we really encourage players to find what their fit is and, you know, hope that in the
off season that they're getting touches on the ball and that they'll be ready to go
usually in late February.
So you're getting players that are coming to you, playing from the heart and they really
want to be playing.
I mean, it's so much easier working with kids like that.
(09:31):
Absolutely.
I mean, you could see it from day one of tryouts, just like how excited the girls were to be
out there.
And I think the high school experience gives them something maybe a little bit different
than their club does.
You know, they really have a lot of pride in playing for their schools.
So everything they approach, which is a bit more intensity because it is exciting to play
and represent your school.
Yeah, that's really cool.
(09:52):
Let's venture off into top soccer.
Now I found the acronym.
I was wondering what top soccer meant.
It's spelled capital T, capital O, capital P, capital S for soccer.
So it's all together.
I found the acronym, the outreach program for soccer.
Yes.
That's simple.
It is.
That just makes sense.
I thought it was going to be a little bit more elaborate than that, but the outreach program
(10:14):
for soccer.
That's great.
So the name says it all.
It does.
How did you get in or involved with that through?
Now this is going through a USU soccer federation, correct?
Correct.
So it is going through the USU soccer through USU soccer.
For me personally, I was doing one of my diploma courses through the...
(10:36):
It's now called United Soccer Coaches, but at the time it was called the NSCAA.
I was doing one of my diploma courses in...
I believe I was in Elmhurst, Illinois.
We were all introducing ourselves and a gentleman by the name of Sean Danhauser started speaking
and talked about his coaching and what he does.
He mentioned a program called Top Soccer and how it's a buddy soccer program that really
(11:00):
pairs typically developing athletes with athletes with a variety of abilities.
He just talked more and more about Top Soccer.
My ears spread up and I was like, this sounds like something I would really like to do.
We ended up connecting and after that course ended up starting the program at the club
(11:22):
at Trevie and FC United where I was coaching, where I coach.
How long have you been with Top Soccer?
I always have to look because sometimes I really can't believe how long I've been with Top
Soccer.
It really is one of those things that is a true love and so I feel like when I think
about how many years it's been, I think we are on, if I have this correct, sorry, I have
(11:46):
to actually get.
Our first season was in the fall of 2013.
We are approaching our 10-year anniversary, which is so exciting.
There were a few seasons that we didn't play because of COVID, but we typically run a program
in the fall and in the spring.
I'm going to go right now and open the tab for the program, Top Soccer, and folks that
(12:13):
are listening should understand that of course the link for that is going to be on Lyser
Road trip website.
I'm reading up about a symposium that's coming up.
That's the first thing that pops up and it says USU Soccer is proud to announce the
2023 USYS Top Soccer National Symposium being held in the western suburbs of St. Louis from
(12:36):
April 14 to 16, so that's coming up.
It says it's a free event, brings together state associations and local program leaders
from across the country, the sharpener skills in implementing Top Soccer within their state
and communities, featuring a broad array of subject matter experts and motivational speakers,
the symposium offers value for everyone from the most experienced Top Soccer coach to the
(12:58):
novice looking for an introduction.
This event is being held at the Sheraton West Airport or Westport.
Tell us about the symposium.
So this year's symposium is something we're all really excited about.
I think, you know, I know there's been a lot of planning involved by members, some of my
fellow members of the National Top Soccer Committee.
(13:20):
They've brought in some remarkable speakers to entertain and to educate the crowd or the
attendees.
Some of them include, you know, I think an OT and PT in a session that's called Partners
in Practice.
Again, this is all a draft.
I'm pretty sure the final agenda is coming out, so this is some inside information.
(13:42):
But I think that, you know, again, as I was saying, OTs and PTs looking at partnerships
and practice, looking at some sensory and behavior strategies that might be important
in a session.
They've brought in, I think, an adaptive PE teacher, which would, you know, I work in
the schools and I work very closely with APE.
And so thinking about how some of the APE ideas may also apply in a Top Soccer session,
(14:09):
they're bringing in one of the, you know, one of the things I'm really excited about
is they're talking about bringing in a retired police officer who will talk about the connection
between Top Soccer programs and first responders in the area.
And I know that some of our programs have done some sessions with first responders,
and it's been a huge hit with parents and players all around.
(14:30):
So that's a session to look forward to.
And then I think they're also going to talk about like festival planning and talk about
some marketing and PR strategies.
So just really a lot of great stuff on the agenda for the symposium.
I'm extremely impressed.
When I first started getting into US Soccer and coaching my God, 40 years ago, none of
(14:54):
this was there.
And I actually first came across and I'm looking at it right now.
It's on the Top Soccer page.
It's a video and it's available on YouTube.
That's what, I think it came across to me in an email from the US Youth Soccer because
I get that stuff all the time as a coach.
And I saw that video and then I, that's when I started digging and I came across you and
(15:18):
your title I thought you were the person right to.
And that's how we started and got to this point.
So I'm extremely impressed with, well, also, they're putting some money into this.
Not only just at the symposium, but overall, and then we'll get into a little bit about
the state associations.
So I'm extremely pleased to know that a sport that I'm so deep into is doing something
(15:44):
that's so important.
And I'm very happy to be talking to you about this too.
So why don't you carry us off into talking more about the whole gamut of what's going
on with Top Soccer and what it's all about?
Yeah, so I think like you hit the nail on the head.
I think US Youth Soccer has made such a strong commitment in so many ways to Top Soccer.
And I think you're seeing that all come into fruition with the symposium and just the presence
(16:10):
of Top Soccer within the US Youth Soccer Organization.
If we really think about the athletes that US Youth serves, they serve everyone.
If you include Top Soccer, you know, so Top Soccer all the way up to the elite level athletes.
So I think, you know, for me, being part of an organization that really thinks about everyone
is really important.
(16:31):
And I think we know in our sport there are so many leagues and there are so many opportunities
for players to play.
And I love that US Youth Soccer has a program for everyone, truly for everyone.
Again, it's great.
I'm going back to the web stage and I'm taking people through this as I went through it and
learning about the program.
(16:53):
Go down to benefits for participants.
Well, first of all, Janet, explain what type of kid shows up for this.
So really Top Soccer, I know the program that I run, we encourage anyone to come out to
our sessions.
We run, our sessions are free.
We're fortunate with the club.
We have great support for uniforms and for balls and for other equipment.
(17:16):
So we're able to provide our program free of charge.
And so I always tell parents who email me who made seem nervous about their child having
their first sport experience with us that really, because it's free, you're not committing
to anything other than just giving us a try.
And I realize that our program may not be for everyone, but I hope that everyone can get
something out of it.
(17:37):
So we have children with all different levels of abilities and all different diagnoses.
You know, I could list off probably 100 different diagnoses that we have from our players, but
really at the heart of it, we just have kids who have different, you know, who maybe learn
differently, who communicate differently and who move differently.
And I think that's the beauty of Top Soccer is that there's no one way or there's no one
(18:02):
player that we're looking for.
We're truly just looking for anyone who wants to, wants to play soccer or may just want to
come meet some really great people and hang out with their buddies.
So we really offer a little bit for everyone.
The video, I think, represents that quite well on the fun that's happening in the low
pressure.
I mean, no pressure.
(18:23):
Yeah.
I think that's probably for me the most important thing to maintain is that kids feel safe when
they come to our program and that, you know, really there is no expectation for you're
going to do X or you're going to do Y or you're going to do Z, that it's truly your program
can be what you want out of it.
You know, we have some kids who really are competitive and they love playing at our competitive
(18:45):
small sided games.
And then we have other kids who really don't, you know, they're just, they want to work
on their skills and they enjoy that opportunity to connect with their buddies socially.
I always call this backyard soccer and I try to present that when I first started coaching
when I was a freshman at college.
That sort of attitude, of course, we'd have to have some drills and some things, but basically
(19:06):
back off towards the end of the training session and just let the kids go, find the
side, some of us, you know, whatever, because that's where they're going to pick it up.
We're going to differentiate between those kids that are there because mom and dad paid
for it or those kids are there because they just start loving the game.
And I think that's a one way to rope these kids in and get them involved and start moving
some things forward with where it's at.
(19:28):
Right.
And then when we think of just the benefits of sport in general, so any of any movement
and health and wellness, I mean, there are so many benefits that we could probably talk
for days just about the health benefits of, you know, sports, athletics, even, you know,
more important for some of our kids who may not, you know, have a lot of movement opportunities.
So yeah, the benefits are endless and I think the benefits are mutual for the buddies and
(19:53):
the players and even the coaches.
I mean, I know every week I leave there feeling just so great.
My cup is so full after working with our athletes and our buddies.
But I do think the buddies get so much out of the experience as well, which is what, you
know, is really important.
And I think contributes, if they are a soccer player, it also contributes maybe to their
formation as a soccer player as well.
(20:15):
I want to ask you about the buddies, but first, because the show is starting to take off,
we're going to take a two second break in case someone, we have advertisers that want
to drop an ad in.
So we'll be back in just a second.
Okay.
So tell me about buddies.
I went into this, of course, from my perspective thinking, oh, here, coaches and the upside
and stuff.
(20:36):
But a lot of it is about the buddies.
What is it?
What is a buddy at this program?
So for our program, the buddies are right at the heart of our program with our players.
I'm fortunate because I'm part of a soccer club where I can pull probably 80% of my
buddies from the club.
So that's an easy ask is to get the players to come out to the field at least once per
(21:01):
season.
We obviously want to see them as many times as possible, but at least once to see what
our program is about.
And from there, they often bring a friend or a sibling or their teammates, which is
awesome.
But really, the buddies are the true coaches on the field.
I think we give them a blueprint, but the buddies are the ones who are really facilitating
the session, which is a beautiful thing to watch.
(21:23):
And I think I love that the buddies recognize what their players need as well.
And sometimes the buddies might realize that their player may not want to kick the soccer
ball too much today and instead talk with them.
Or sometimes they're working on different skills or showing them different moves or
they're helping them play whatever games that we're playing.
So what's a typical age for a buddy?
(21:44):
So I think that couldn't vary between programs.
But I know in our program, we typically have kids who are 12 and older that are buddies.
We've occasionally incorporated some junior buddies within our program and I'll typically
pair them up with an older buddy, which has been awesome because they can also help facilitate
the session as well.
So I think we typically stick to 12 and older and then we'll pull in some junior buddies
(22:08):
who express an interest and want to be a part of it.
So it's one thing, so another, you can start them off as a junior buddy and then maybe
the next year or two years and they might have a brother or sister.
I mean, it just starts to expand.
Yes.
I've learned never to say no to someone who wants to volunteer for something.
So I figure let's find a way and I'll be honest, you know, if a parent emails me and maybe
the buddies, not quite ready to handle it, I'll give them that feedback.
(22:31):
But for the most part, the junior buddies have really enhanced the experience for our
players.
Very cool.
Now you mentioned earlier, did I pick it up?
Make sure that this is correct.
So it's a ratio of one to one player to buddy.
A lot of that depends on our numbers.
So sometimes we can actually have two buddies to one player.
(22:53):
Sometimes we do want two buddies to one player, but depending on our numbers, there are weeks
where actually can have three players or three buddies for one player.
So we typically one to one is our gold standard, but we're always happy to have more buddies
if needed.
Okay.
I want to go down the list now.
I'm still on the USU soccer page.
Come on on top soccer.
(23:15):
Getting started.
Yes.
We'll read a couple of these.
Identify the need in your area for what type of disabilities you need to plan or you
able to fulfill these needs.
Check for any restrictions placed on the facility to plan to use.
Check and of course, here we go.
Big caveat.
Soccer insurance carrier.
We know that that's important.
So it looks like there's a key to mention before.
(23:37):
There is a blueprint that USU soccer uses.
And now I'm going to click on my state association of Wisconsin youth soccer.
And I go on to their page under the top soccer.
And I'm looking at, we've got a program administrator of Megan Ward.
Yes.
You know with Megan.
(23:58):
Yes.
And I'm looking down at what's coming up.
So this is for 2023.
It states we are continuing the W Y S A. Wisconsin youth soccer association top soccer sessions.
The sessions session is for top soccer athletes, individuals, cognitive or physical disabilities
who are looking for competitive environment to further their soccer skills.
This is open to males and females ages 13 to 20.
(24:22):
That's a nice broad range.
Age exceptions can be made with a recommendation from local coach.
So it's loose.
I mean, that's the way it should be.
Now session information.
Interesting how the timing is.
But this episode actually is going to drop after the start.
So March 12, 19 and 26 are when these sessions are.
And they're going to be at Eli soccer park at the Assertura fields down in Milwaukee from
(24:48):
9 to 10 a.m.
So three different sessions from just an hour long, not overtaxing kids.
That's a good amount of time for focus.
Now for $3 that includes all three sessions and a t-shirt.
And then there's a little place on here for click to register.
And so that goes through with what they've done.
(25:12):
How does a state association pick up and become part of or get under the umbrella for
US soccer and the top soccer program?
So it sounds like what you were referring to was something that the state association
itself was hosting for their top soccer athletes.
So I would liken that to something like an ODP state program.
(25:37):
So really with that's a statewide program.
It sounds like open to any top soccer athlete, maybe even an athlete who's not part of top
soccer and just saw something and wants to join.
Beyond that, each of our state associations will typically have a top soccer director.
Like I'm the Illinois soccer association top soccer director.
(25:59):
Ronnie Andrews is the top soccer director in the state of Wisconsin.
So any local club or person that's interested in starting a program could go to the top
soccer director as their first point of contact.
And typically what I've done and I just took over for Sean Danhauser in Illinois.
So we've been doing this together.
(26:21):
But we've had a few programs that are interested in starting in Illinois.
And we've typically just scheduled a meeting with them to just kind of start the conversation
about the things you mentioned, identifying need.
Are there already existing programs in your area, just starting at the very base as a
first meeting and then giving them a few tools to kind of get them on their way to either
(26:44):
answering more questions, asking a few more questions, or maybe some are ready to go right
away.
Typically a club or organization would contact the state association top soccer director.
If there's not one, they could contact their state association.
And then from the state association, they could be pushed to our region directors.
But most of our state associations have a designated top soccer director.
(27:08):
It does sound a lot like the same sort of branches of a tree of the Olympic development
program.
Okay, so talk to me, Shannon, as if I was a parent that heard about this and someone
pointed you out on a soccer pitch and just said, oh yeah, you go talk to her about top
(27:30):
soccer program.
So I'm a parent coming to you.
Tell me about, you know, maybe I've got my kid in tow.
And how would you handle that situation?
Well, I think first and foremost, I would find out the, I would get the information from
the parents so that we could add them to our email distribution list to let them know about
our upcoming season.
(27:51):
I would talk to them about our program.
And like I mentioned earlier, I really encourage anyone who is considering joining a team or
is interested to just come out to one of our sessions.
Like I said, there's no fee involved.
Just try it out, see if they like it.
And if they don't, that's okay.
If they do, we'll see them the following week.
But you know, we do, I mean, there is some registration and paperwork we like to collect
(28:13):
medical information to make sure that there's nothing we need to be aware of.
Or if, you know, there is medical information that we need to be aware of, we can pass that
along to our buddies that are working with that player.
But really anyone who's interested, I would just encourage them to, there's actually a
map on the top soccer website that kind of goes by state and then it takes you to each
(28:35):
state association, then you can see all the programs in your state.
So that's, you know, you can see geographically where there are programs that might be near
where you're located.
Oh yeah, it's large.
When I opened that, I was just blown away with not just how many states, but how many
clubs within the state?
This is huge.
And again, I'm proud to be part of that organization and what you guys are doing.
(28:59):
Yes.
And it's, I feel like it's growing.
I mean, I know alone here in Illinois, I've met with three different clubs since the start
of the year that are interested in starting a program.
So very cool.
There you have it.
Wow.
And there's really, there's no number of kids to start a program, you know, programs.
I know when we first started our program, I think we had maybe eight to 10 kids and we
(29:21):
now manage between 50, 60, 70 kids in a state.
So, you know, really, there's no specific number that you're looking for.
And you'll find that I think within the community of a lot of our players' families, they have
a community and they have a network of other players who might be interested.
So the next thing you know, you only had five or six kids and then you, now you have 20
(29:42):
kids who want to play soccer.
Yeah.
Okay.
Well, it reminds me about soccer back in the early 80s when I first started going with
your way up to over a thousand kids in our community.
So your physical therapist in the school district.
I am.
I take it, the top soccer, I could tell.
I just, I listen to you, this is in your heart.
(30:05):
Yes.
I mean, this is really part of you and I think it's a natural for you to be doing that.
Where do you see yourself or where do you see yourself going with this?
Could this catapult you into some other direction?
Do you think you've settled into where you're at?
I mean, what's going to be happening for you personally now?
(30:27):
You know, I think I'm at the point in my life where I truly want to do things that continue
to fill my cup.
And like you said, are in my heart.
And so, you know, top soccer is really at the top of the list.
I wish I could do it every day all day, but unfortunately I have to do my other job.
But I do, no, I do.
(30:48):
I think I'll just want to continue to be a part of it as, you know, as long as I can.
And I hope that we can continue to give every kid an opportunity to play soccer that wants
to play soccer.
And I think the beauty of top soccer is it's truly at the grassroots of the game.
As we've seen, you know, other, you know, we've seen growth with our extended national
(31:09):
teams in US soccer.
And, you know, top soccer might be the first entry point for some of the athletes that
one day play for one of our extended national teams.
And, you know, you never know which kid is going to come into your program that might
end up playing, you know, on our seven-aside parrot team, for instance.
So I think for me, it's just making sure that we can capture as many kids as possible
(31:31):
in our sport.
And I think this is just one more vehicle to do it.
So I hope I can be involved with it, you know, for the rest of my life.
Hands down, the USU soccer has somebody in you.
You've got this.
Yes.
Totally got this.
So talking about shift in direction and things.
We want to do this.
(31:53):
We are now going to go into what we call the road trip roundup with you, Janet.
And it's five questions about you and road tripping.
Okay.
I have a feeling maybe something might be here doing with road tripping in soccer, but whatever.
All right.
So, question number one, Janet, when road tripping, do you tend to do fast food or local diners?
(32:14):
Oh, definitely local diners if we can.
Okay.
Very cool.
Definitely local diners.
Okay.
I would imagine though, if you're on a team bus, who can accommodate a bunch of kids,
right?
I will say I've always been fortunate to have amazing team managers and they find the best
food places.
So I don't know.
(32:35):
I'll go with those as much as possible.
Okay.
As much as possible.
I've been to Panera probably a thousand times.
Okay.
All right.
As many soccer team.
See, you know, that's not bad.
I like that.
All right.
Number two, your dream car for a road trip.
That can be something that you grew up grew up with in road tripping of the family.
Something you have now or something you would maybe even rent to go on a road trip.
(32:58):
So I would say more recently in my adult life, I've had a Jeep Wrangler and I think I would
have to say that's probably the most ideal vehicle for a road trip for me as a Jeep Wrangler,
but the weather warming up that I could have the top of the Jeep off.
Okay.
There you go.
I was wondering if it was going to go towards the convertible.
Yes.
Now, you're on the younger side.
(33:20):
Maybe I'll throw this out there anyway.
Laska set or CD.
Yeah, you'll fit there.
Laska set or CD that played while you're on a road trip.
Oh, this is a tough one.
This is such a tough one.
I cannot.
I'm so proud.
I'm sister Hazel.
(33:41):
What the heck music is that?
Exactly.
There's sort of, I don't know, they're just like one of my favorite bands of all time.
Our wedding song was one of their songs.
Like, I don't know.
I just love them.
So this is good road trip music.
Kitty Catega Rice, sister Hazel for me?
Um, like classic rock.
(34:04):
No.
No.
Punk.
Punk?
No.
Like, no, I'm not.
So here's the other full disclosure.
I'm not like a super music person.
Um, but what would I classify them?
I was kind of like rock, but not like hard or heavy metal or anything like that.
Look, I'm all, they're great.
Okay.
All right.
All right.
Four straight up, coca pepsi.
(34:28):
I have to say coke.
My grandfather worked for coke.
So if I say pepsi, I would be disowned.
Was he down in their corporate offices in Atlanta, Georgia?
No, he was actually in Wicksburg, Pennsylvania.
Wicksburg.
Okay.
Yes.
So I have to say coke.
Okay.
But still coke.
I understand.
All right.
Last one.
(34:49):
You carry this wherever you want to, lady.
All right.
Okay.
What's your favorite road trip memory?
I would have to say my, I believe it was just my mom, sister and I on a road trip some
place.
I don't think my dad was with us, but I think it was just the three of us.
(35:10):
And we talked about what we would do if we won the lottery.
And I just always, we always go back to that.
And it definitely passed the time.
So I was still waiting to win the lottery though.
Okay.
All right.
Still waiting.
Still waiting.
Somehow I have the feeling though that even if you want a couple of mill or multiple mill,
you'd still be doing what you're doing.
(35:31):
100%.
Yeah.
It would all probably go back to top soccer.
There you go.
Okay.
All right.
Well, we're at the end of our show.
I'm just going to say challenge relax everybody and Shannon and what I'm going to hit stop here
in just a second.
But you and I stay on for a couple minutes.
Okay.
All right.
Thanks kiddo.
Thanks for listening.
(35:53):
Check out previous episodes with new ones dropping each Tuesday.
If you don't see a synopsis of this show where you're listening, visit our website at
life's a road trip dot pod bean dot com for more information on this week's guest.
This is your host Scott Martin reminding you that life's a road trip.
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