There are very strict regulations on who is allowed to coach in my kids’ soccer league. They won’t let just anybody do it…

First, you have to have a kid in the league. This takes at least 4 years of planning since the kids must be at least 4 years old.

Second, your kid’s team must be in need of a coach. This is easy (if you’ve completed the first requirement) because it’s a Baptist church, and though we love the Baptists, sometimes getting them to volunteer can be tricky.

Third, you have to watch the 20-minute coach’s training DVD.

Once you’ve completed all 3 requirements, you are a fully trained and qualified soccer coach. I am in the small minority of those who have completed all 3. I guess that makes me Coach Ron.

We had our first game today. Technically, we won, but officially we don’t keep score. I have 8 little guys aged 4-6 that are on my team. I was somewhat (ok, extremely) nervous about how today would go, but thanks to the soccer moms who helped me herd the children around the field, it went ok.

Next week, we will be trying to improve my coaching record to 2-0, which shouldn’t be difficult since they don’t keep score.