Setting Goals for the Season: A Message from Girls Director of Coaching Shari Eckstrom

Hello MSC Parents and Players,

As I enter my fourth season with Manhattan Soccer Club, I could not be prouder of the growth in our girls' program. My passion is building a winning program that shows excellence both on and off the field.

Youth and competitive sports are about more than winning games. They are about what players learn from teamwork, facing adversity and succeeding together.

My goal has always been a program where players reach their goals and build character that carries into the classroom, the workplace and wherever their journey takes them.

Every fall brings a fresh chance to set new goals, bring our teams together and grow the MSC Sisterhood. I believe this will be a special year across every Zone as we keep raising the standard in training, development, coaching and the overall player experience.

Goal setting

Success depends on the process and the effort put in, day in and day out. I ask each player to set one short-term and one long-term goal for the season, focused on what she can control. Use the SMART framework:

• Specific: State clearly what you want to accomplish.
• Measurable: Decide how you will track progress in training and games.
• Attainable: Identify steps you can take every day or week.
• Relevant: Define why this goal matters to you.
• Time-bound: Set a clear target date.

This season, we want our players to train their minds as well as their bodies. First, we’ll help them see challenges as chances to grow. Next, we’ll teach them to stay present and focus on what they can control. That means letting go of past mistakes and not worrying about the final score. As a result, they’ll give themselves the best chance to reach their potential, both on and off the field.

I believe in our coaching staff, and I know our players have great leaders, teachers and role models beside them every week. I'm excited for all we will accomplish this season, and I thank you for your commitment to Manhattan Soccer Club.

Coach Shari Eckstrom

Building Champions: MSC Sisterhood