Meet Zach: From Athlete to Coach

It all started with baseball in 2013 at 9 years old. Athlete Zach wanted to see what team sports was all about and dad, Mike, decided to jump in with him to coach his team. With over 30 seasons as an athlete under his belt, Zach now coaches our youth program with his dad. He’s come full circle, and wow, is he good at being Coach Zach, bringing a valuable perspective to our coaching team. Take a look at his replies to our questions:

Q: What is your favorite Spirit League sport?
Zach: When I initially started out, I liked baseball the most. This was probably because it required the least amount of interaction and activity. As I got older it actually became my least favorite. Basketball and soccer became tied as I liked basketball as a fast pickup game, and I liked soccer as a long-term sport where you got to build up camaraderie with your teammates.

Q: What is the best thing about being a Spirit League coach?
Zach: I like seeing how the kids grow over the 10 weeks. Especially if you have kids from previous seasons return, you can see the improvements they make through each season. I also like how it gives me a chance to do something with my father. We’re both older now and don’t spend as much time together so it’s nice to have time set aside every week to do something together.

Q: What advice would you give a young athlete considering joining the League?
Zach: Do it. Because you never know what bonds you might form; with teammates, opposing athletes, coaches, and even your own family. At the very least you’ll get good exercise and you can use it for P.E credit later.
Thank you, Zach, for your great advice and for sharing your story. We are proud of you.