On a bright Saturday morning in Kansas City, 75 youngsters gathered on a local field for a free soccer clinic led by former Sporting Kansas City defender Matt Besler.
A Coach’s Journey
Besler, a Blue Valley West alumnus who spent 13 seasons in professional soccer and was a member of the United States squad at the 2014 World Cup, used the event to give back to the community that nurtured his love for the sport.
He emphasized that success on the pitch comes from relentless effort and the joy of playing, a message that resonated with the kids who drilled drills and small‑sided games under his guidance.
After the final whistle, Besler lingered to sign every participant’s jersey, recalling how he once practiced autographs as a child and how his first signature came from baseball legend George Brett.
The clinic not only sharpened footwork and teamwork but also sparked a budding interest in coaching among the participants, many of whom left with newfound confidence and a deeper appreciation for the game.