53. Matt Lacey- Virginia Development Academy & Justin Chezem- Christopher Newport Men's Soccer

In this episode, Justin Chezem of Christopher Newport University men’s soccer and I welcome Matt Lacey. Matt is the Technical Director of the Virginia Development Academy (VDA), one of the top programs in Northern Virginia and the East Coast. VDA is part of the prestigious Elite Clubs National League or (ECNL), which is considered one of the top youth soccer leagues in the country. It was great to have Matt and his insights on the podcast.

Matt Lacey Show Notes

This conversation discusses the process of coaching kids in soccer and the challenges that come with it. It also delves into the recruiting trail for youth soccer players and the evolution of the college recruiting process. The importance of balancing academics, soccer, and social life is emphasized, as well as the need for research and communication when reaching out to coaches. The conversation also highlights the significance of considering the whole college experience and differentiating oneself in the recruiting process. Lastly, the value of off-field experiences and creating lasting memories and connections is discussed. This conversation explores the importance of social connections and finding the right fit when choosing a college. It emphasizes the need to consider social dynamics and the impact of roster changes on the overall experience. The consequences of hasty commitments and the importance of research and homework are also discussed. Specific examples of successful and unsuccessful transfers are shared, highlighting the individuality of the decision-making process. The conversation concludes with a reflection on past decisions and the value of considering all aspects of college life. Additionally, the role of nutrition in athletic performance is briefly touched upon.

Takeaways

Consider the social connections and dynamics of a college when making a decision.

Take the time to do research and homework to ensure the right fit.

Transferring can be a positive option if the current situation is not meeting expectations.

The decision-making process is individual and should be driven by personal goals and preferences.

Nutrition plays a crucial role in athletic performance.

Chapters

00:00 Coaching Kids in Soccer

03:07 Youth Soccer and the Recruiting Trail

08:03 The Evolution of the College Recruiting Process

10:34 Navigating Conversations with Parents

13:07 Balancing Academics, Soccer, and Social Life

16:17 Researching and Reaching Out to Coaches

19:14 Considering the Whole College Experience

22:25 Differentiating Oneself in the Recruiting Process

25:47 Differences Between Boys and Girls in Recruiting

29:56 The Importance of Off-Field Experiences

33:07 Creating Lasting Memories and Connections

36:44 The Importance of Social Connections

37:17 Choosing the Right Fit

38:34 Considering Social Dynamics

39:26 The Impact of Roster Changes

40:55 The Consequences of Hasty Commitments

41:40 The Importance of Research and Homework

42:11 Specific Examples of Successful and Unsuccessful Transfers

45:11 The Individuality of the Decision-Making Process

46:20 The Experience of Transferring

47:13 Reflecting on Past Decisions

49:15 The Impact of Life Events on Decision-Making

50:45 The Value of Considering All Aspects of College Life

52:50 Using Challenging Situations to Reevaluate Choices

53:27 The Importance of Doing Research and Finding the Right Fit

54:57 The Benefits of Transferring and Finding a Better Fit

56:27 The Perspective of 16-Year-Olds and the Importance of Considering All Factors

57:30 The Role of Nutrition in Athletic Performance