Aroostook News

For women's soccer assistant coach, Scott Leighton, there is no ideal day away from soccer. He found his way to the soccer field almost 20 years ago and you would have to drag him away to get him off it now. His dedication to the program here at CM is one to be admired and looked at to replicate.

Leighton started coaching soccer in 2004 in the Pittsfield Recreational Leagues. Starting with 5-year-old co-ed to U15 and U18/19 premier teams with Central Maine United Soccer Club. It was in 2018 when CM women's soccer head coach, Rob Rodriguez, asked him to be his assistant. His role as the lead assistant coach is to work with Rodriguez to assure that workouts, practices and activities are managed smoothly. He also serves as the second driver for the team on away trips.

Part of the being a good coach at any level is the communication they have with their players. Leighton is always reaching out to the players, sending them potential footwork drills and ways to increase their skills. "There are always words of encouragement for the ladies. I also let everyone know if I'm going to be at the field early, in case there are players who wish to shoot on goal before workouts officially begin," added Leighton.

Although his commute to the CM campus is a little over an hour, Leighton has always seen the benefits of coaching young adults. He would like to think that he helps the players develop traits that will ultimately allow them to be successful in life, including timeliness, commitment, loyalty, comradery, and communication. Because let's be honest, sports whether it be soccer, baseball or basketball, end at some point for everyone. It may end at different times, but preparing players for life outside of athletics is truly the goal.

If you can't find Leighton on the field at CM or in the woods bowhunting, he is on the road recruiting. Leighton adds, "I enjoy recruiting, watching games and noting the players I feel would help our program grow." Recruiting has taken him all over New England to various high school games and club soccer tournaments. Luckily there are plenty of club soccer teams in the area and with tournaments held year-round. Therefore, Leighton and the rest of the coaching staff are able split up to see a lot of players from various locations.

Building a successful team and program is no easy task. Having players that are positive, care for their teammates like family and continually communicate, motivate, and encourage each other only begins to describe a successful team. The key behind it all, is having players and a coaching staff that buys into the system. Players need to entrust that the coaching staff is putting them in the right place to be successful. Leighton screams, "BELIEVE IN COACH!"

With a long off-season, keeping the team motivated to put in the work to prepare for the season ahead involves teaching the players to dream big. Players have scheduled strength and conditioning, but the rest of improving their game comes from what they want to sacrifice. Do you want to give up your Saturday mornings so that you can play in an indoor adult league in the area? Do you want to give up your weekend nights by going to the gym to get stronger and quicker for the next season?

So, what are you willing to give up to win?

Original source can be found here