·        Community

We want our teams to be communities that model the love of Christ, which is the main way we are supposed to demonstrate that we are Christians, and is the cornerstone of character. Teams should develop a family dynamic.

·        Officiating

We observed a general movement in AHSA to be overly focused on the officiating rather than our own ability to glorify God as we build character and athletic skill in a competitive athletic program.

·        Ministry

We want to press on toward a strong ministry component. We aren’t aiming to be 50% coach/50% youth minister. We should aim to be 100% coach/100% youth minister. Seek out mentors in your church or circle of influence to equip you and encourage you.

·        Direct

We want to do a good job of talking to each other when there are difficulties rather than about each other. We want our kids to learn to do the same.

·        Opportunity

We want to provide meaningful playing time to weaker players when we are dominating the other team or when we are getting dominated and a win is out of reach. We also want to clearly communicate to weaker players about areas of improvement that are needed. With mid-schoolers we want to be particularly mindful of providing the opportunity for development, with an eye toward more balanced playing time.

·        Joy

Without letting up on 100% intensity in competition, we want to find ways to keep the experiences fresh and fun when possible.