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Jeff Sopha KC Area Baseball What was shared about Coach Sopha:  Jeff Sopha loves baseball more than anything, and he wants to impact the lives of as many people he can with the sport of baseball. And he’s giving kids all over the metro opportunities to play and grow.  He’s been instrumental in launching and growing baseball opportunities for high school-aged athletes who haven’t made their school teams — an important way to keep young people who love baseball a chance to stay in the game.

Todd Lewis Volleyball – MAVS What was shared about Coach Lewis: Todd Lewis embodies the very essence of what Community for Coaches celebrates — he uses the game of volleyball not merely to teach sport, but to transform lives and build character in young people. Todd consistently creates an environment where players feel seen and capable of growth. Rather than focusing solely on wins and losses, he emphasizes confidence, resilience, and self-belief as cornerstones of athletic and personal success. He encourages his athletes to take risks, learn from setbacks, and celebrate effort — reinforcing that confidence is formed through courage and commitment. Under his guidance, players who once doubted themselves are now approaching challenges with a strong, positive mindset that extends far beyond the volleyball court. But Todd’s impact goes deeper: he cultivates leadership within his players. By giving them ownership of roles, responsibilities, and decision-making during games and practices, he teaches them how to lead with integrity, empathy, and accountability. He gives his captains permission to call a timeout in practice if the team has lost focus or needs a pep talk, and uses that time to reset. These young athletes learn what it means to encourage teammates, communicate with purpose, and make thoughtful choices under pressure — skills that prepare them for leadership in classrooms, families, their communities and future careers.

Jeff DiskinBaseball – Pembroke Hill School What was shared about Coach Diskin:  Jeff has served as the assistant athletic director and MS English teacher during his time at Pembroke Hill. As an administrator he modeled servant leadership, often 1-step ahead of his coaches who needed things done for their programs to run smoothly. He was an encourager and supporter when things were both up and down. I appreciated his bluntness as well, you always knew where you stood with Coach Diskin. As a teacher, all these years later, my own daughter has fond memories of class with Coach Diskin who took the time to teach his students authentically. Currently, as a co-head coach in the Raider Athletic Program he continues to be a resource for others, often young coaches who are finding their way. He’s a coach, teacher, and administrator of the highest caliber.

Margo Todd – 2026 Rising Star Award Recipient Sports Performance, Ignite What was shared about Coach Todd: Margo just finished her first year coaching at Ignite. WOW! She was incredible! She had a true knack for winning the hearts of young kids… in particular, Margo really excelled in helping kids who actually didn’t want to attend our program AND kids who were a little bit unmotivated. Margo developed strong relationships with them which later led to them really “buying into” the training process. As an athlete herself, Margo finished high school as one of the strongest females in the state of Kansas and is now throwing (shotput, discus, etc.) for Wichita State… she inspires young girls to train hard and achieve their dreams! Our gym and our camp are incredibly blessed to have her on staff!

Kelsey Hasselbring Cross Country/Track – Blue Valley Middle School What was shared about Coach Hasselbring:  Coach Hasselbring has created a warm, welcoming environment where students are surrounded by peers who are motivated to grow and improve. She consistently encourages students to challenge themselves, push past their limits, and strive to get better at every practice. Her positive energy and belief in her athletes help foster both confidence and continuous growth. We have continued to have an increase in students to participate in the sports she coaches. BVMS is very lucky to have a great coach who is dedicated to her athletes.

Christyn Haberly –  Volleyball, Aubry Bend Middle School What was shared about Coach Haberly: Christyn Haberly is a coach who is truly using sport to change lives. As the head volleyball coach at Aubry Bend Middle School, she has built a phenomenal, highly respected program that reflects both excellence and genuine care for her athletes. She holds her student-athletes to high standards, but what makes her special is how she balances those expectations with encouragement, energy, and heart. She is deeply passionate about helping kids grow their skills, but just as committed to making sure they enjoy the process and love being part of the team. Her players are learning how to compete, how to work hard, and how to believe in themselves — all while having fun.

Kayla Hamner Soccer – KC Fusion What was shared about Coach Hamner:  Kayla currently serves as the Academy Coach for the 2015 Girls and the Aspire Coach for the 2009 Girls. In both roles, she goes far beyond teaching the technical and tactical elements of the game. Through competition, she intentionally teaches life skills such as leadership, accountability, resilience, communication, teamwork, time management, and personal responsibility. Her players are not only developing as athletes — they are growing as young women. One of the most meaningful initiatives Kayla has implemented is a mentorship structure between age groups. Each player on the 2009 Aspire team mentors a player on the 2015 Academy team, creating a bridge between the two programs. This structure provides younger players with role models while giving the older players a tangible opportunity to practice leadership and responsibility. Kayla reinforces to the 2009 group the importance of their influence and the example they set, helping them understand that their role extends beyond their own performance.

David Durand is a visionary coach and author behind "B.E.T. On It: A Psychological Approach to Coaching Gen Z and Beyond." David brings a unique blend of experience, insight, and skills to working with athletes, coaches, and teams through his business, Real Development LLC. With a background in coaching, strength and conditioning, and psychology, he is dedicated to helping athletes reach their full potential physically, mentally, and personally. Drawing on his own experiences as a member of Gen Z and working with countless youth and adolescents, David offers a fresh perspective on the modern challenges facing today's athletes. He believes that a holistic approach that considers the nervous systems of athletes can improve their performance and, more importantly, their mental health and well-being.

Nikki Hoffman Basketball and Track, Olathe South HS What was shared about Coach Hofffman:  If you have been around Coach Hoffman for very long, you will recognize that more than winning games, although she wants to win more than most, she wants her athletes to understand that their approach to playing the game matters more than the scoreboard. For sure character is what Coach Hoffman believes drives winning. However, she knows the catalyst of it all is Jesus. In organic ways, Coach Hoffman can share her faith and show that her true identity is in Jesus. This is the true confidence that we can have on and off the court! What sets Coach Hoffman apart is that she doesn’t just have a poster on the wall of her core values for the program. She, her staff & athletes work very hard to live out the core values every day. She does things like having a retreat to start the season off on a great foundation. Her team has mindset practices where they take time to work on things of the heart and mind. These are just a couple of examples. I have personally been around many coaches, for many years and I can say that Coach Hoffman truly wants more than anything for her athletes to walk away from the season as not just better players/athletes but better humans.

Karli Angle –Soccer, Athena FCCoach Angle’s podcast interviewWhat was shared about Coach Angle:Karli teaches our athletes life-lessons like teamwork, perseverance, and discipline, helping players develop both on and off the field. Karli inspires our athletes to overcome challenges and grow their confidence, resilience, and leadership.

Kayla Barnes Cross Country, Swim, Track, Olathe West HS What was shared about Coach Barnes:  Kayla is an incredible leader and motivator.  There aren’t very many coaches out there who love and care about their athletes the way Coach Barnes does.  She is a new Mom, coaches three sports and helps lead the FCA huddle at West.  Kayla is tireless and enthusiastic…an absolute dynamo!

Sam SolidayVolleyball, Maranatha Christian Academy and MAVSWhat was shared about Coach Soliday: He is building more than just a volleyball team; he is helping build a family. Coach Soliday brings people together through one common goal and makes them better people. He teaches us friendship, leadership, humility, and confidence. No player leaves the same as when they started and that is all because of his dedication to our team through years of consistent coaching and mentoring. The only reason we won a state title is because of his incredible passion and abilities. He makes each and every player feel cared for, and he makes sure that no matter what happens, we have our priorities set on more than just winning a game. He teaches life lessons like grit and resilience that will carry each player through different seasons of their life, on and off the court. He makes sure we have unity and prioritizes our spiritual life over any title or trophy. He is a fair coach who imprints unforgettable life lessons and lasting bonds between players and coaches. He not only invests in being a high school coach, club coach, and former police officer, but also strongly invests in being an incredible grandfather. He is a family man at heart, and he grows each girl that steps onto his court into a strong woman for Christ.

Stephan Gordon Football and Wrestling, Summit Christian Academy What was shared about Coach Gordon: He’s been a wrestling & football coach for about 6 yrs. & has encouraged many in that time. He was a huddle leader in FCA to serve many young kids. He uses Joshua 1:9 to emphasize being strong & courageous in Christ. There’s not enough space her to do justice to what he’s done thus far for our youth. There’s not a better example of Christ’s love than what he shows to many kids who need help in every way. There’s not a better coach in the Metro.

Steve EssexFootball, Basketball, Track, Prairie Star Middle School What was shared about Coach Essex:  Coach Essex is truly the heartbeat of PSMS, playing an integral role in nearly every sport offered at the school. He is not only the most liked teacher but also the most approachable. Steve is always willing to lend a hand and offer support to anyone in need. Through his coaching and servant leadership style, he demonstrates his faith by pouring into the lives of his athletes, shaping their character, determination, and work ethic. Coach Essex’s influence goes beyond the field or court—he motivates his athletes to not only become better athletes but also better students. His commitment to excellence helps each athlete to be the best version of themselves, fostering a team atmosphere that encourages growth and fellowship. Steve goes above and beyond in coaching football, girls and boys basketball, and track. He dedicates time and energy to develop the physical skills and creating relationships with each individual athlete. His fierce passion for coaching and his genuine care for his athletes make him an invaluable asset to the PSMS community.

Karsen Ong –2025 Rising Star Award Recipient Sports Performance, Ignite What was shared about Coach Ong: Karsen has been a total game changer for our staff. He’s one of the youngest coaches I’ve ever added to our staff in the 19 years of Ignite. But Karsen has risen to the occasion. It’s INCREDIBLE watching him interact with young kids… everyone loves him! Additionally, he’s earned the respect of athletes that are 2-3 years older than him in the weight room because of his care, enthusiasm, and attention to detail.