Change, But Never Forget Your Purpose
Lou Holtz, a former college football coach and current ESPN college football analyst, once said, "Change is important. Change for a reason, but never forget your purpose." When I read this quote, I reflect warmly and smile on Classics Eagles' short, yet successful history of sharing the game of soccer with the players, coaches and parents who are the Classics Eagles' family!
In 2009, Classics Eagles was born. Participation in the game of soccer was growing. Jeff Dybahl (Co-Founder of Classics Eagles and Executive Director of Communication & Culture) and I believed there was a need to create a youth soccer organization that could serve the developmental needs of children of all abilities and interest levels. We were confident this new organization would provide children a safe, positive and fun environment to learn the game of soccer. Parents wanted an environment where they could trust and respect that their child was learning about life through the game of soccer from a caring, knowledgeable and professional coaching staff.
Over the past six years, our mission has been well received. The club has grown from 14 teams to well over 100 teams. During this growth, Classics Eagles has evolved. We have evolved to meet and exceed the demands of the always changing youth soccer landscape. We have
Through this evolution, we have remained steadfast in our commitment to our purpose: to provide a safe, positive, fun and professional learning environment for the individual players and the teams on which they participate. Remaining committed to and focused on our mission has allowed the club to continue to provide individual players, their parents, the teams and coaches an exceptional, value-packed experience both on-field and off-field.
A player's success is the result of their personal drive for excellence, hard work, proper planning and a commitment to one's goals. Success can be measured in so many ways: displaying good sportsmanship during and after a tough game; executing a new move under game conditions; making friends when joining a new team; winning a league or tournament championship; contributing on a high school team; playing soccer in college.... and the list goes on! When club, players, coaches and parents unite around a common purpose focused on player-first development themes, then everyone can achieve success.
In the coming weeks, The Back of the Net will introduce key members of the CE Leadership team and coaching staff, recognize player successes, and highlight the amazing CE Academy programs and curriculum offered by Classics Eagles to the players, parents and coaches. The CE Way provides a truly unique experience that affords players an opportunity to realize their fullest potential and achieve their soccer dreams.
Mike Lentz
Club Co-Founder & Executive Director