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What Makes a Good Soccer Coach for Young Chicago Players

In Chicago, soccer is more than a sport — it’s a passion, a way for kids to stay active and a launchpad for lifelong skills. But one of the most important factors in a child’s soccer journey is the person guiding them on the field. So, what makes a good youth soccer coach — especially […]

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1 month ago

April 11, 2025

Your Sports Nation

What Makes a Good Soccer Coach for Young Chicago Players

Thomas Cahue, Director of Coaching at Paris Saint-Germain Academy Chicago, has the answer. With decades of experience both playing and coaching, he knows what it takes to nurture players in a way that leads to growth — in skill, confidence and character.

PSG Academy Chicago is part of the prestigious international Paris Saint-Germain network, with access to elite methodology, global training opportunities and a deep commitment to player development. Whether a child is just starting out or dreaming of playing professionally, PSG offers a structure that supports every stage of the journey.

It starts with experience — and empathy

When thinking about how to find a youth soccer coach who will truly connect with kids, start with their background and mindset.

“When we hire coaches, we look for people who are already involved in the sport,” says Cahue. “Whether that’s through playing or coaching, they need to understand the game and the environment.”

But being skilled on the field isn’t enough. Cahue says the best coaches go beyond drills and tactics — they’re mentors. “They should be someone who understands where a kid is coming from, emotionally and socially, and how to support them.”

Paris Saint-Germain Academy Chicago coach celebrating with young players as they lift a trophy together, showing teamwork and what makes a good soccer coach for kids — Photo credit: Paris Saint-Germain Academy Chicago

Communication is key

A great coach doesn’t just talk — they listen. Cahue says setting clear expectations with players and parents from day one is critical. “This is what you can expect from me, and this is what I’ll expect from your child,” he says. That kind of upfront clarity builds trust.

Parents should also feel confident that coaches are approachable. “If a child is off their game, we notice,” says Cahue. “We check in. Sometimes there’s something going on at home or school, and that touchpoint makes a big difference.”

Wondering how to choose a youth soccer coach in your area?

Start by watching a session — and look for structure, not chaos.

“Every PSG session follows a structure,” Cahue explains. “We start with an activation game, then technical drills with lots of touches on the ball, then we move into decision-making games and finally an evaluation.”

He notes that each child should be constantly involved — not standing in line waiting for a turn. “You need repetition. The ratio should be two or three kids per ball, not one ball for a whole team.”

Paris Saint-Germain Academy Chicago coach applauding from the sidelines during a youth soccer game, showing support and what makes a good soccer coach for kids — Photo credit: Paris Saint-Germain Academy Chicago

What you should know about certifications

While coaching certifications aren’t the only measure of quality, Cahue says they show a coach’s willingness to learn and grow.

In the U.S., coaches begin with grassroots-level certification and progress through a tiered system: D, C, B, A Youth and Pro licenses. Advancement between levels takes time and practical experience — often six months to two years between stages — allowing coaches to absorb and apply new knowledge.

Europe’s UEFA licensing system uses a similar A–B–C structure, and some coaches hold credentials from both systems.

“We help our coaches understand not just PSG methodology, but how to navigate the licensing process,” says Cahue.

So while a coach without top-tier credentials may still be excellent, a pattern of avoiding formal training altogether could be worth a second look. For Chicago parents wondering how to choose a qualified soccer coach, it’s worth asking about both credentials and practical coaching style.

Red flags to watch for

Not all coaching is created equal. According to Cahue, parents should be cautious if:

Sessions lack structure and variety
Coaches focus only on physical fitness
Communication with families is minimal or reactive
Players are told what to do but not taught why

“Kids need to be part of the process,” he says. “If they can’t explain what they’re doing or why, they’re just following instructions — not learning.”

Support your child’s journey

Graphic from Paris Saint-Germain Academy Chicago showing 3 key questions parents should ask a youth soccer coach: How do you keep kids engaged during practice? How do you help kids handle frustration? How do you involve parents in their progress? — Photo credit: PSG Academy Chicago

Ultimately, Cahue believes a great coach creates the right environment — one that supports development, fosters confidence and keeps soccer fun. “If a coach brings the right environment, your child will grow,” he says. “It’s about so much more than the game.”

In Chicago’s competitive youth soccer landscape, finding the right coach can make all the difference in your child’s success and enjoyment of the game.

This content is sponsored by Paris Saint-Germain Academy Chicago. Learn more about PSG at psgacademychicago.com.

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AVP Huntington Beach Open delivers exciting clashes and memorable victories

HUNTINGTON BEACH – The 2025 AVP Huntington Beach Open wrapped up last Sunday, treating beach volleyball fans to a weekend of high-stakes action under the California sun. The tournament, held at the iconic Huntington Beach Pier, has been a staple on the AVP calendar since 2000, and this year’s event carried the added significance of […]

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11 minutes ago

May 17, 2025

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The men’s championship match featured a commanding performance by top-seeded duo Andy Benesh and Miles Partain. The pair defeated the second-seeded team of Chase Budinger and Miles Evans in straight sets, 21-14, 21-14. Known for their dynamic chemistry, Benesh and Partain controlled the court, demonstrating why they previously clinched the 2023 Huntington Beach title.

For Budinger, a former NBA player, and his partner Miles Evans, the loss highlighted their grit and determination throughout the tournament. They had advanced to the final after a grueling three-set semifinal victory over Billy Allen and Taylor Crabb, 24-26, 21-19, 15-13. This marked another strong showing for Allen and Crabb, with local hero Allen hailing from Fallbrook.

On the women’s side, fans were treated to a thrilling three-set showdown between first-seeded Taryn Brasher and Kristen Nuss, and third-seeded Terese Cannon and Megan Kraft. Brasher and Nuss, who finished third in 2023 and second in 2024, finally secured their first Huntington Beach Open title with a hard-fought 21-17, 21-23, 15-9 victory. The pair’s toughness on the sands solidified their status as one of the top teams to watch heading into the AVP League season.

Taryn Brasher (L) and Kristen Nuss won their first ever AVP Huntington Beach Open title. Valley News/Bryan Malloch photo

Cannon and Kraft, though falling short of the crown, impressed throughout the tournament, particularly in their semifinal victory against the second-seeded team of Melissa Humana-Paredes and Brandie Wilkerson in another intense three-set match, 21-15, 19-21, 15-12.

For Fallbrook native Billy Allen, the Huntington Beach Open was a homecoming of sorts. Partnered with Taylor Crabb, Allen advanced to the semifinals, where they narrowly lost in three sets to eventual finalists Budinger and Evans. Allen, a veteran of the AVP circuit since 2004, has built a storied career that includes tournament wins in Seattle and a successful run as co-host of the podcast “Coach Your Brains Out.”

Allen’s connection to his California roots remains strong, even after relocating to Idaho with his family. The father of one continues to balance his roles as an athlete, coach, and writer, sharing his experiences in books like The Inner Knight.

With the Huntington Beach Open officially in the books, players now shift their focus to the AVP League, set to begin its second season on May 23 in Palm Beach, Florida. Two additional California stops are planned for this summer’s league schedule, including events in San Diego and Los Angeles.

The stakes remain high for athletes vying not only for league glory but also to further establish themselves on the international stage, as many of the weekend’s standout performers are also preparing for the 2024 Olympics.

The 2025 AVP Huntington Beach Open was a weekend packed with talent, thrilling matchups, and electric energy that only beach volleyball can bring. From the dominant performances of champions Benesh and Partain to the dramatic battles on the women’s side, this year’s tournament left an lasting mark on the sands of Huntington Beach.

Send local sports tips and info to sports@reedermedia.com.

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Randall’s Havi Valdez, Layla Romero sign with respective colleges to play volleyball

AMARILLO, Texas (KFDA) – Randall volleyball seniors, Havi Valdez and Layla Romero, both signed with their respective colleges on Friday to further both their athletic and academic careers. Valdez signed with Taft College volleyball, while Romero signed with Hesston College volleyball. The girls were on varsity and were both a part of the 2022 state […]

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31 minutes ago

May 17, 2025

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AMARILLO, Texas (KFDA) – Randall volleyball seniors, Havi Valdez and Layla Romero, both signed with their respective colleges on Friday to further both their athletic and academic careers.

Valdez signed with Taft College volleyball, while Romero signed with Hesston College volleyball.

The girls were on varsity and were both a part of the 2022 state championship winning volleyball team.

They were also both a part of three consecutive state championship appearances with the Lady Raiders.

Valdez says that she will take lessons learned at Randall to college.

“I think I learned how to be a really good leader…like we faced a lot of [adversity,]” she said. “I just became more of a leader and just was able to grow in different ways.”

Romero says her playing style has drastically improved and she will be able to utilize that at the next level.

“Definitely my serving….I was so terrible at serving until this year,” she said. “It took me a lot to learn how to do certain things and my footwork and all that stuff. The coaches really helped me.”

Taft College ended their season at 27-5 overall, while Hesston College finished with a 7-16 overall.

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Basing Heroic Again, Stanford Advances to Final Four – Stanford Cardinal

WACO, Texas – Max Basing saved six match points and rallied for a tiebreaker win, clinching a 4-3 victory for No. 5 Stanford men’s tennis over No.12 Mississippi State in the NCAA quarterfinals at Hurd Tennis Center. Stanford improves to 26-5 on the season and advances to its first Final Four since 2003. The fourth-seeded […]

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35 minutes ago

May 17, 2025

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WACO, Texas – Max Basing saved six match points and rallied for a tiebreaker win, clinching a 4-3 victory for No. 5 Stanford men’s tennis over No.12 Mississippi State in the NCAA quarterfinals at Hurd Tennis Center. Stanford improves to 26-5 on the season and advances to its first Final Four since 2003.

The fourth-seeded Cardinal, appearing in the quarterfinals for the first time since 2012, led early after doubles with the decisive point coming on court two. After a tight battle went to the Bulldogs on court one, against the top pair nationally, Samir Banerjee and Alex Razeghi earned a 6-4 win on court three. After defending a pair of Mississippi State match points at 5-4, Henry von der Schulenburg and Kyle Kang won via tiebreaker on court two, 7-6 (3).

Godsick made it 2-0, opening singles action with a 6-3, 6-4 victory on court five. The win was his 16th of the year, and he improved to 13-2 in dual action on the season. Winning his 22nd match of the season, von der Schulenburg made it 3-0 Stanford with a straight-set win of his own, 6-4, 7-5. The win was the 15th in a row for von der Schulenburg and his 18th in dual action.

Mississippi State pulled back wins on courts two, six and one, respectively, to tie the match at 3-3, leaving Basing as the lone Cardinal remaining to clinch the match. Basing trailed 5-4 in the third set, and 40-0 in the potentially decisive game, before fighting off four consecutive match points. Basing trailed 40-30 at 6-5, again saving a pair of match points from the Bulldogs to push the match into a third set tiebreaker. Basing took a 5-3 lead midway through and didn’t look back, earning his 19th victory of the season, and 16th in dual play.

The semifinals appearance is the 21st in program history for the Cardinal, which is looking for its 18th NCAA title in program history. The Cardinal improved to 5-0 all-time against the Bulldogs with the win.

Stanford will take on No. 1 Wake Forest in the NCAA semifinals on Saturday, May 17 at 2 p.m. PT (4 p.m. CT). The action will be broadcast on ESPN+.

[4] No. 5 Stanford 4, [12] No. 12 Mississippi State 3

DOUBLES
1. No. 1 Jovanovic/Sanchez Martinez (MSU) d. No. 70 Godsick/Hudson Rivera (STAN), 6-3
2. No. 47 Kang/von der Schulenburg (STAN) d. No. 60 Baroni/Martinez Serrano (MSU), 7-6 (3)
3. No. 48 Banerjee/Razeghi (STAN) d. Milanovic/Novansky (MSU), 6-4
Order of Finish: 1, 3, 2

SINGLES
1. No. 28 Benito Sanchez Martinez (MSU) d. No. 7 Samir Banerjee (STAN), 4-6, 6-4, 6-4
2. No. 67 Petar Jovanovic (MSU) d. Kyle Kang (STAN), 2-6, 6-2, 6-3
3. No. 101 Max Basing (STAN) d. No. 111 Niccolo Baroni (MSU), 3-6, 6-2, 7-6 (5)
4. No. 73 Henry von der Schulenburg (STAN) d. Dusan Milanovic (MSU), 6-4, 7-5
5. Nico Godsick (STAN) d. Bryan Hernandez Cortes (MSU), 6-3, 6-4
6. Mario Martinez Serrano (MSU) d. Alex Razeghi (STAN), 6-4, 2-6, 6-4
Order of Finish: 5, 4, 2, 6, 1, 3

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James F Davenport Obituary – Pasadena (1940-2025)

James F. Davenport, Jr. OBITUARY James Franklin Davenport Jr., born on August 2, 1940, Pasadena, California, passed away peacefully on May 7, 2025, surrounded by his family. He was the beloved son of James Franklin Davenport Sr. and Margaret Ives Davenport and brother of Eleanor “Nonie” Travers (deceased). Jeff, as he was affectionately known, derived […]

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43 minutes ago

May 17, 2025

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James F. Davenport, Jr.

OBITUARY

James Franklin Davenport Jr., born on August 2, 1940, Pasadena, California, passed away peacefully on May 7, 2025, surrounded by his family. He was the beloved son of James Franklin Davenport Sr. and Margaret Ives Davenport and brother of Eleanor “Nonie” Travers (deceased).

Jeff, as he was affectionately known, derived from the initials of his first and middle names, JF, was a shining light in the lives of all who had the privilege of knowing him. He spent most all of his 84 years in Pasadena, attending Polytechnic School, Menlo School, and later the University of Southern California, where he was a member of the Sigma Chi Fraternity and was also a world class swimmer and water polo player.

Jeff went on to enjoy a successful career in finance spanning more than 50 years, working with EF Hutton, Alex. Brown & Sons, Deutsche Bank, Lehman Brothers, Jefferies, and later RBC. He was renowned for his natural charm, his inquisitiveness with everyone he encountered, his profound work ethic, and his unwavering dedication to exceeding his client’s expectations.

Outside of his professional life, Jeff found immense joy in owning thoroughbred horses for decades, with a special fondness for Santa Anita and Del Mar. He was also an avid golfer, runner, and hiker. The Davenport family has been proud members of the Valley Hunt Club in Pasadena for over 65 years. Jeff was the last living Count in the Visart de De Bury et de Bocarme noble line.

Jeff’s passing leaves a deep void in the hearts of his family, friends, and the many others whose lives he touched. His infectious smile, positivity, generous spirit, and sharp sense of humor brought out the best in those lucky enough to know him. His unwavering commitment to spreading love and kindness was truly unmatched.

Though his physical presence is no longer with us, Jeff’s spirit will continue to inspire and uplift those who loved him. He is survived by his four children and their spouses: Jamie (Susie), Jonathan, Caroline (Bianca), Beau (Briana) and grandsons, Luke, James, Mark, and Hugo.

In accordance with the family’s wishes, private services will be held.

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West Forsyth goes after boys volleyball state championship

State AlabamaAlaskaArizonaArkansasCaliforniaColoradoConnecticutDelawareFloridaGeorgiaHawaiiIdahoIllinoisIndianaIowaKansasKentuckyLouisianaMaineMarylandMassachusettsMichiganMinnesotaMississippiMissouriMontanaNebraskaNevadaNew HampshireNew JerseyNew MexicoNew YorkNorth CarolinaNorth DakotaOhioOklahomaOregonPennsylvaniaRhode IslandSouth CarolinaSouth DakotaTennesseeTexasUtahVermontVirginiaWashingtonWashington D.C.West VirginiaWisconsinWyomingPuerto RicoUS Virgin IslandsArmed Forces AmericasArmed Forces PacificArmed Forces EuropeNorthern Mariana IslandsMarshall IslandsAmerican SamoaFederated States of MicronesiaGuamPalauAlberta, CanadaBritish Columbia, CanadaManitoba, CanadaNew Brunswick, CanadaNewfoundland, CanadaNova Scotia, CanadaNorthwest Territories, CanadaNunavut, CanadaOntario, CanadaPrince Edward Island, CanadaQuebec, CanadaSaskatchewan, CanadaYukon Territory, Canada Zip Code Country United States of […]

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55 minutes ago

May 17, 2025

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Kate Pearson Chosen to Participate in Women’s Coaches Academy by WeCOACH

Story Links GLASSBORO, NJ – Rowan women’s basketball coach Kate Pearson as been named by WeCOACH as a participant in the NCAA Women Coaches Academy (WCA) and the 8th class of NCAA Academy 2.0, set to take place May 18th to 21st, in Denver. Hosted in collaboration with the NCAA, […]

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59 minutes ago

May 17, 2025

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GLASSBORO, NJ – Rowan women’s basketball coach Kate Pearson as been named by WeCOACH as a participant in the NCAA Women Coaches Academy (WCA) and the 8th class of NCAA Academy 2.0, set to take place May 18th to 21st, in Denver.

Hosted in collaboration with the NCAA, these impactful Academies offer multi-day transformational experiences focused on leadership development and personal growth for women coaches from all sports and collegiate levels, including both two-year and four-year institutions.

This year, over 100 women coaches will gather in Denver, with 85 coaches participating in the NCAA WCA and 18 advancing through the NCAA Academy 2.0 program. These women represent 24 different sports, including several NCAA emerging sports, and come from a diverse collection of institutions across NCAA Divisions I, II, and III, as well as the NAIA, 3C2A, NJCAA, and NWAC.

In her first season at Rowan, Pearson led the Profs to a 17-9 overall record and the fourth seed in the NJAC Championship.

May 19-21 NCAA Women Coaches Academy Class #54 Participants:
Claire Abele | Butte College – Head Coach, Soccer
Devan Acosta | Hanover College – Head Coach, Golf
Lindsay Allman | Florida State University – Associate Head Coach, Volleyball
Lauryn Andrew | Concordia University-Irvine – Graduate Assistant Coach, Volleyball
Miranda Armstrong | Pomona-Pitzer Colleges – Associate Head Coach, Soccer
Sloane Baumgartner | Elmhurst University – Head Coach, Lacrosse
Emily Bitka | Daemen University – Head Coach, Lacrosse
Jenn Blomme | Whitman College – Head Coach, Swimming

Eileen Bringman | Cornell University – Associate Head Coach, Swimming & Diving

Laura Broderick | Yale University – Assistant Coach, Cross Country, Track & Field
Jasmine Brown | Oberlin College – Head Coach, Volleyball
Lynnzee Brown | Pennsylvania State University – Assistant Coach, Gymnastics

Daiysa Burrell | Norfolk State University – Assistant Coach, XC, Track & Field

Kendra Bush | Rochester Institute of Technology – Assistant Coach, XC, Track & Field
Karen Byers | Seattle Pacific University – Head Coach, Basketball
Jasmine Chambers | South Carolina State University – Assistant Coach, Volleyball

Erin Chrissobolis | Ohio Northern University – Assistant Coach, Swimming & Diving
Adeline Chung-Feder | Wagner College – Assistant Coach, Fencing
Shannon Coughlin | UW Green Bay – Assistant Coach, Volleyball
Alexandria Courtney | Minot State University – Head Coach, Volleyball
Vinsetta Covington | Kentucky State University – Assistant Coach, Basketball

Chloe Curtis | Loyola Marymount University – Head Coach, XC, Track & Field
Jeanne Czipri | Central College (Iowa) – Head Coach, Volleyball
Jessica Darmelio | Carmel High School – Head Coach, Basketball
Arla Davis | McDaniel College – Assistant Coach, Field Hockey
Melissa DeVore | Coker University – Head Coach, Basketball
Amy Donovan | University of Alaska Fairbanks – Head Coach, Basketball

Kaycie Dunkerley | Lewis & Clark College – Assistant Coach, Basketball
Maisie Elston | Mount St. Joseph University – Head Coach, Basketball
Catherine Ely | Bryn Mawr College – Head Coach, Crew
Uloma Enyogasi | Lynn University – Assistant Coach, Basketball
Alyxx Estrada | Regis University – Assistant Coach, Softball
Amanda Evans | New Mexico Highlands University – Head Coach, Soccer
Hillary Fitts | Hofstra University – Head Coach, Field Hockey
Allison Fordyce | Susquehanna University – Head Coach, Field Hockey
Marissa Fortuna | St. Lawrence University – Graduate Assistant Coach, Soccer
Lindsey Garcia | Occidental College – Head Coach, Water Polo
Mahogany Green | Hamilton College – Head Coach, Basketball
Katie Guns | St. Norbert College – Head Coach, Soccer
Elyssa Hawkins | Biola University – Assistant Coach, Water Polo
Madison Heck | Virginia Wesleyan University – Head Coach, Lacrosse

Shirlynn Hight | Talladega College – Head Coach, Acrobatics & Tumbling
Gabrielle Holko | Susquehanna University – Head Coach, Basketball
Katie Horton | Florida State University – Director of Operations, Beach Volleyball
Cornysia Island | University of Arkansas – Pine Bluff – Assistant Coach, Volleyball
Kellis Johnson | Dominican University – Assistant Coach, Soccer
Jenna Kalwa | University of Saint Joseph – Head Coach, Soccer
Maile’ana Kanewa-Hermelyn | University of Michigan – Assistant Coach, Gymnastics
Brehan Kelley | PennWest Clarion – Head Coach, Swimming
Abigail Kemble | Eastern University – Head Coach, Field Hockey
Nina Klein | Quinnipiac University – Head Coach, Field Hockey
Megan Kronschnabel | Claremont Mudd Scripps – Assistant Coach, Volleyball
Courtney Kust | Hope College – Associate Head Coach, Basketball
Moneshia McKenney | Clemson University – Assistant Coach, Volleyball
Erica Metz | Millersville University – Assistant Coach, Field Hockey

Baylee Mires | University of Louisville – Assistant Coach, XC, Track & Field
Brittney Morris | St. Mary’s College of Maryland – Head Coach, Lacrosse

Raina Nolan | Emmanuel University – Head Coach, Acrobatics & Tumbling
Haley Overstreet | Sewanee, The University of the South – Head Coach, Field Hockey
Sara Pasour | University of North Carolina at Pembroke – Assistant Coach, Volleyball
Kate Pearson | Rowan University – Head Coach, Basketball
Ana Pego | Quinnipiac University – Assistant Coach, Volleyball
Barbara Perkins | University of Denver – Head Coach, Triathlon
Megan Rabenberg | Loyola University Maryland – Assistant Coach, Rowing
Madeline Reed | Kutztown University – Assistant Coach, Soccer
Erin Reeves | Colby College – Head Coach, Tennis

Kaitlyn Reny | University of Redlands – Assistant Coach, Swimming & Diving
Kelly Rider | Curry College – Head Coach, Hockey
Toccara Ross | Central Michigan University – Assistant Coach, Basketball
Erin Schneidtmiller | University of Louisville – Assistant Coach, Field Hockey
Katelyn Sherman | Ave Maria University – Head Coach, Lacrosse
Janelle Silver-Martin | Florida Gulf Coast University – Assistant Coach, Basketball
Katie Smith | Xavier University – Head Coach, Soccer
Claire Sporer | Michigan State University – Strength Coach, Basketball
Hannah Tepper | Trinity College – Assistant Coach, Field Hockey
Arli Tilves | Carnegie Mellon University – Assistant Coach, Swimming
Julieta Toledo | The Ohio State University – Assistant Coach, Fencing
Arieon Trinity | Agnes Scott College – Head Coach, Volleyball
Melissa Valenzuela | Illinois Wesleyan University – Head Coach, Flag Football
Amy Vaughan | Nova Southeastern University – Head Coach, Soccer
Jae-Lyn Visscher | University of South Florida – Assistant Coach, Beach Volleyball
Lauren Voigt | The College of Wooster – Head Coach, Field Hockey
Janice Washington | Lincoln University – Head Coach, Basketball
Shannon Witzel | Spalding University – Head Coach, Lacrosse
Doshia Woods | University of Denver – Head Coach, Basketball