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Preparation to be the Coach They Remember!

SPRING RECREATION ACADEMY NIGHT

Director of Recreational Development Job Opening

Register Now Rec Soccer Spring 2026 Kick off the spring with USAI Spring Recreational Soccer. Registration is now open for players of all skill levels, U5 and up. Our six-week spring season is designed to provide a positive soccer experience with age-appropriate practices and games, focusing on learning, development, and fun. First practices begin the week of April 4, 2026 Games start Saturday, April 18, 2026  Register online

USA of Indiana hosted Depauw's Women's Assistant Soccer Coach Beth Cook, Indiana University Indianapolis' Women's Soccer Head Coach Angela Berry White, Manchester University's Men's Head Coach Olaoluwade Ladapo, USA of Indiana Travel Coach Sean McGrath, and USA of Indiana's Director of Coaching and Academy Director, Coach Isang Jacob at Pike High School for College Information Night. These coaches shared valuable insight into what it truly means to pursue college soccer and how to prepare for the opportunities and challenges ahead. The conversation centered not only on athletics, but on the bigger picture of becoming a well-rounded student-athlete. Here are just a few of the highlights from this year’s panel discussion: Academics Matter. Your performance in the classroom is just as important as your performance on the field. Coaches emphasized that being a student-athlete means prioritizing your education. Choose a school not only for the soccer program, but for the degree opportunities, academic support, and overall campus environment. Ask yourself: Can I see myself here if soccer were no longer part of the equation? Think Long-Term. The next four years will help shape the rest of your life. Soccer may open doors, but your degree, experiences, and relationships will carry you forward long after your playing career ends. Evaluate all factors carefully — campus culture, coaching staff, academics, financial commitment, and personal fit. Character Counts. Coaches shared that they look beyond talent. They notice how players respond to mistakes, how they celebrate success, how they treat teammates, officials, and opponents, and who they are off the field. Body language, coachability, resilience, and integrity all matter. Understand the Financial Picture. College is an investment. Families were encouraged to consider the financial component of their decision, understand scholarship realities, and ask questions about aid packages and long-term affordability. Know the Recruiting Process. The panel reviewed general recruiting guidelines, timelines, and communication expectations. Being proactive, organized, and respectful in communication can make a significant difference throughout the process. We are grateful to our coaching panel who took the time to pour into our student-athletes and families. Their honesty and perspective provided clarity and encouragement for those beginning — or continuing — their college soccer journey. Linked is a flyer on NCAA Eligibility, and how to start your plan for college play: http://fs.ncaa.org/Docs/eligibility_center/Student_Resources/IE_Brochure.pdf For more information on college athletics, you can begin here . Feel free to reach out to USA of Indiana staff and coaches if you have any questions.

U.S. Soccer 2026/2027 Age Group Change Information FAQ's

USA of Indiana Coaches Teach More Than Just The Game. They model R espect, E thics, C haracter, and C ommunity, developing fine young people through soccer. Perks You choose which time and day of the week you practice Coaching fulfills volunteer requirements for Rec player accounts Coaches have access to coaching resources, training plans, & support Official USA of Indiana coaching gear and practice materials provided Commitment Attend scheduled practices and games Choose and utilize age-appropriate practice plans from USA of Indiana's resources Support character development Communication with team Tots Coaches Tots have "Lead Parents" instead of Coaches, who help run Tots Sessions with support from the USA of Indiana Lead Coach for all 6 sessions . Rec Coach Training There will be a Rec Coach Training for both Pike and Hendricks Coaches at Mary and John Geisse Soccer Complex on March 28th, 2026 & April 4th, 2026 . To sign up to be a Community Recreational Coach, please indicate your interest on your child's registration form, click the button above, or email info@usaofindiana.org . Visit the USAI Coaching Resources page for planning information and game format!