Wednesday, June 26, 2013

"Every pro was once an amateur, every expert was once a beginner, so dream big and start now."

My name is Shelby Komar and I have loved the game since I was very young and it has become a huge part of my life. I have experience in the Select, Elite, Premier, and Varsity levels. I have played in tournaments all over the state, including State Cup, and my Varsity team at Spring Lake advanced to the State Semis this past spring after winning conference, districts, and regionals. I also have experience coaching in the Tri-Cities Strikers Youth Academy for both boys and girls ages 5-9 and as a personalized trainer for players ages 8 to 15. My love for the game has only grown as a mentor giving back. The game has given me so much as a young lady growing up in the 21st century. It has taught me hard work, perseverance, given me confidence, and has helped me make some life long friendships. All of the dozens of coaches I've had since I was little have taught me something special. But I've found that the female coaches have had a remarkable impact as they have connected with me on a personal level, pushed me while giving me positive feedback and taught me that I can achieve the impossible. The wonderful game that has the power to unite all nations under all sorts of circumstances all over the globe is full of passion, adventure, and life. Each player deserves to be given the confidence that they can achieve greatness at all levels as long as they believe in themselves. I do not believe that rankings, numbers, or letters determine a player's potential. I believe a player's potential is defined by their ability to rise to the occasion, the ability to stand up after they've been pushed down, and their passion for the game. Teaching our young girls that the impossible is possible, that failure is just a stepping stone, and their passion for all things they do (not just soccer) is something that will exceed all limits set is the first step in making not only a player great, but a young woman.