Student Service Learning Experience Reflection

Brian Stelter
06/03/02
P.6, H.Eng.11, Krebs

Describe one specific Student Service Learning experience you have had.
One specific Student Service Learning experience I have participated in has been the coaching of a youth soccer team. For the past two seasons, I have coached a team of 6th graders for the Damascus Soccer Club. Along with my brother, I have run the practices, coached at the games, and organized the team.

Who was the intended beneficiary of your activity and what was the specific benefit?
My friend Chris could no longer coach the soccer team, because he had committed to playing soccer for DHS and this interfered with the youth soccer team schedule. Part of me had always wanted to try coaching; I offered to run the team in the fall. The intended beneficiary of the activity were the kids who were suddenly without a coach for the season to come. Breaking up the kids -- many of whom had played with each other for years -- wasn't something anyone wanted to do. The specific benefits that the kids received were their continuation of play on the soccer team; participation in an athletic activity; and a feeling of "comradery" among teammates.

What was your attitude to this activity before you started it?
Before I started coaching, I was very unsure as to whether or not I would enjoy it. After all, I knew that coaching could be challenging -- difficult, unresponsive kids and, of course, the prospect of losing games. Later, I learned that rude coaches, mistaken referees, and problematic parents were also part of the equation. However, as the season went by, I grew to enjoy coaching more and more. I looked forward to the games and helped lead our team to five wins, two ties, and only one loss. By the end of the season, I looked forward to the games and thoroughly enjoyed coaching. I decided to sign up for it again during the spring season.

Describe one specific aspect of your feelings during your participation.
It's always been said that kids need role models -- someone to look up to and respect and idolize. I didn't feel like I was the best person to serve a a role model; Nevertheless, it always felt wonderful to hear "Hey Coach!" when I'd walk on the field or answer the phone. When I heard this, it made me reflect on my position and cherish it.

Describe one effect this experience has had on you:
When I would watch Chris, or prior to that, my dad coach the soccer team (or the basketball team), it didn't seem like an exciting, enjoyable, rewarding activity. It seemed difficult and strenuous -- I certainly didn't understand the "offsides" rule and taking down soccer nets didn't appear to be my idea of fun. I now know that coaching kids can be rewarding and fun, and I am glad I didn't ignore the opportunity when it presented itself.

Will your experience change your behavior in any way in the future? Why/why not?
Certainly in the short term, I will continue to coach the soccer team and I may help coach my brother's basketball team, as well. I will likely consider coaching a team when I have kids of my own, as well. Perhaps this will lead me to become more open-minded when a similar opportunity presents itself in the future.