COLUMBUS, Ohio —Soccer Shots Coach Savannah Garside may not be a superhero—but she is an everyday hero.
- Has a passion for working with kids
- Started coaching and teaching children as soon as she graduated from college
- Believes in giving kids a positive first experience in sports and creating self-confidence
Her passion for working with kids is making a difference on and off the soccer field.
"I started as soon as I got out of college…working with children...and it's probably been the most rewarding part of my life so far." said Garside.
For Garside, it's more than just learning the fundamentals. It's about giving kids a positive first experience when it comes to sports.
"My hope is that they just have a fun first experience, whether it be with soccer or another sport...just that they have a positive building experience in any sport program,” said Garside. “Just because in the world we live in now with sports it can be so demanding and so draining and just pure competition and no breaks...I just want them to have fun and enjoy themselves."
Even for experienced soccer players like 4-year-old Aidan Martinez, Coach Savannah is a standout.
"I like that she's my soccer teacher. I also like that she teaches me how to do the jump over," said Martinez.
Soccer Shots Columbus Owner James Uttley says Garside has an ability to connect with the kids and make them feel heard.
"The excitement...when you go out to a field kids are super excited to see Coach Savannah,” said Uttley. “Part of what we do at Soccer Shots is being able to get down to the kids' level and have them have the best experience and Savannah's really good at doing that."
A great experience that involves learning how to dribble, strike with your laces, and score...while also learning the importance of self-confidence.
"I feel like it's really important especially now because of social media. Kids are on their tablets all the time...they see things....and I think it's just important that they know that they are great even if they're not the best soccer player just knowing that they are awesome in their own way," said Garside.
Something Martinez says Coach Savannah has helped him believe.
"I can do anything!”
Soccer Shots offers classes for youth all over Ohio. To learn more, you can visit their website.
