OTHELLO – On Monday, the City of Othello announced it needs more volunteer coaches for Othello MLS GO, a local youth soccer group. According to Parks and Recreation Coordinator Valerie Hernandez, this is not an unusual need to have. Prior coaching experience is not required, she said.  

“We have a lot of coaches who are parents, who didn't think that they knew enough about the sport to coach, and at the end of the season, they would let me know they enjoyed actually participating as a coach, because they get to know the other side of the game instead of just cheering on the sidelines,” Hernandez said.  

The youth soccer league needs two coaches for their 6/7 and 8/9 divisions, their statement said. The league starts Sept. 2 and concludes on the 25th with games Tuesday and Thursday. With a total of eight games, their statement said they typically run short of an hour.  

In addition to the games, one weekly practice, led by the coach, will be required. Hernandez said coaches get to set those schedules themselves after coordinating with parents. Hernandez said equipment is provided to the teams, and coaches go through an orientation centered around their division level.  

“We review rules with everyone in each division. The older kids have different rules. In regard to a 4- and 5-year-old group, we are focused on getting them to the game, have a good time and enjoy playing the sport... as they move up in division, we implement different instructor rules of the game,” she said. 

For anyone who decides to volunteer, they will need to complete a background check, concussion and cardiac awareness training. Practices can be held at any city park, Hernandez said.  

Additionally, high school students in the area would be able to log community service hours through volunteering. After they fill out a form, Parks and Rec will track their hours at practices, games and orientations. Once all of their time is documented, they will put together a portfolio and report it to their counselor.  

Hernandez said she enjoys seeing the parents who were initially hesitant to get involved end up getting the most out of the experience.  

“It's always a fun thing to watch them participate,” Hernandez said. “They just really didn't think or have the confidence to coach, and then they realize it's actually pretty fun, and because it's a rec league, it's not as competitive, so the pressure of winning is not a factor.” 

For anyone interested in volunteering, they can call the Parks and Recreation Department at 509-331-2770 or they can sign up online: bit.ly/1SOCCER1.