Two Worlds, One Mindset
As a business owner and Director of Marketing at Herculeads Marketing Group, I spend much of my time focused on strategy, results, and team performance. But when I step onto a soccer field to coach a group of high school or travel team players, it’s a different kind of leadership that takes over—one rooted in mentorship, patience, and long-term development.
At first glance, coaching soccer and running a marketing business might seem like two completely separate worlds. But over the years, I’ve realized how much these roles overlap. In fact, many of the leadership principles I use in business were shaped directly by my experience as a youth soccer coach. Balancing passion and profession has helped me grow in both areas—and here’s what I’ve learned along the way.
Every Player—and Every Employee—Is Different
As a coach, one of the first lessons I learned is that no two players are the same. Some kids are naturally aggressive and confident, while others are quieter but incredibly strategic. Some respond well to a loud, high-energy pep talk, while others need a calm, one-on-one conversation to truly understand what’s expected of them.
The same holds true in business. At Herculeads, we have a diverse team, and I’ve learned that managing people effectively means recognizing what motivates each individual. Some thrive on recognition and collaboration, while others prefer working independently and behind the scenes. My job isn’t to treat everyone the same—it’s to treat everyone with the approach that helps them perform at their best.
Understanding individual personalities has helped me get the most out of both my players and my employees.
Build Confidence, Don’t Just Give Instructions
One of the most rewarding parts of coaching is watching a player who once lacked confidence step up and lead on the field. That transformation doesn’t happen by chance. It comes from building trust, giving constructive feedback, and creating a space where mistakes are part of the learning process.
In business, I’ve found that the same principle applies. As a leader, it’s not enough to give directions—I need to build confidence in my team. That means celebrating small wins, offering support when someone stumbles, and letting people take ownership of their roles. When people feel empowered and trusted, they take initiative. That’s where growth really happens.
Patience Is a Superpower
Coaching youth soccer has taught me more about patience than anything else. Developing young athletes isn’t a quick process. It takes time, repetition, and encouragement to help them build skills and gain game sense. Sometimes, you don’t see the payoff for months—but when it clicks, it’s all worth it.
In business, especially in a fast-moving marketing environment, it’s easy to expect instant results. But real progress—whether in performance, culture, or innovation—often takes time. Coaching helped me realize that leadership isn’t about rushing outcomes. It’s about trusting the process, staying consistent, and having faith in the people around you.
Whether I’m coaching on the field or managing a project at Herculeads, I remind myself that meaningful development doesn’t happen overnight.
Set Clear Expectations—and Lead by Example
One thing I emphasize with my players is clarity. Every player needs to know their role on the team, what’s expected of them, and how their actions impact the group. But I also make it a point to show them what those expectations look like through my own behavior—punctuality, respect, effort, and focus.
In business, I apply that same model. Setting clear goals, defining roles, and creating structure are essential—but so is modeling the standards I expect from my team. If I want my employees to be accountable, I have to be accountable. If I expect creativity and hustle, I have to bring those qualities myself. Leadership isn’t just about talking the talk—it’s about walking it every day.
Celebrate the Wins—Big and Small
As a coach, I’ve learned to celebrate more than just the final score. I celebrate effort, improvement, teamwork, and resilience. Those little moments—a great pass, a smart decision, a hard-fought game—are just as important as a win on the scoreboard.
In business, I try to bring that same energy. It’s easy to get caught up in major metrics like revenue or conversion rates, but I make a point to acknowledge the smaller victories, too. When a team member solves a problem, lands a client, or just brings positive energy to a tough week, I take the time to recognize it. Those moments build culture, boost morale, and keep people motivated.
The Balance Makes Me Better
Some people see coaching as a hobby and business as the “real job,” but for me, they are both part of who I am. Coaching soccer keeps me grounded, reminds me of the bigger picture, and helps me develop leadership skills that I carry into the office every day. Likewise, my business experience helps me be a better coach—more organized, more strategic, and more thoughtful in how I lead young athletes.
The balance of passion and profession doesn’t just help me juggle responsibilities—it makes me better in both roles.
Final Thoughts: Leadership Is Universal
Whether I’m coaching a team of teenagers or managing a marketing team, the core principles of leadership remain the same: know your people, lead with empathy, communicate clearly, and never stop learning.
Coaching youth soccer has given me insights I never expected, and it’s made me a stronger, more well-rounded leader in business. The field and the boardroom might look different, but the heart of leadership—connection, growth, and purpose—is the same in both.