During the hot, stormy week of July 11 and 12 in Ashburn, VA, Soldiers To Sidelines partnered with the Washington Commanders to host the second STS Coach-the-Coach Workshop and Skills Clinic of 2024.
The event began with two days of instruction for ten selected STS Certified Soldier Coaches from all over the United States. The instruction is led by Founder and Executive Director Harrison Bernstein and STS Football Director Jerod Kruse. Both Bernstein and Kruse have extensive football coaching backgrounds at the high school, collegiate, and NFL levels.
The event’s intent is to teach certified Soldier Coaches how to set up, organize, and deliver a free high school football skills clinic in their community. Each selected Soldier Coach is involved in coaching football within their community and demonstrates the ability to execute. The event culminated with all ten Soldier Coaches, STS Staff, the Washington Commanders, and the U.S. Army Recruiting Command Baltimore Battalion delivering a free 3-hour football skills clinic for two inner-city Washington DC High School football teams, HD Woodson and Dunbar.
This energy-packed event further develops the coaching mastery of our Soldier Coaches, creates deeper connections between our Soldier Coaches, provides a fun and inspiring experience for inner-city kids with their local NFL team, and exposes young athletes to the tremendous benefits of military service.
“It is incredible to watch a group of dedicated Soldier Coaches bond together, focus deeply, work hard, and overcome random adversities to truly inspire young athletes to pursue greatness through sports and service,” said Harrison Bernstein. Coach Greg Fuller of HD Woodson and Coach Mo Vaughn of Dunbar High School were impressed with the energy and organization of the event. Coach Fuller said, “It is great for our players to hear a different voice motivating them to do the things they need to win this year.” Every athlete received a swag bag from the U.S. Army with water bottles, collateral, sweat bands, Soldiers To Sidelines T-shirts, Washington Commanders Salute to Service Shirts, and Commanders Hats.
In addition, Soldiers To Sidelines gifted HD Woodson and Dunbar High School five brand new game balls to be used during this season. Harrison Bernstein said, “As a former high school football coach, I understand how precious new game balls each season are. These are special because they are a visible reminder of selfless service.”
This ripple effect of selfless service to build the future leaders of our country is only possible by the commitment of our donors and sponsors. This event was free for our soldier coaches and free for the local athletes because of sponsor/donor generosity. We extend an incredibly special thank you to the Washington Commanders and Chris Bailey for investing in the future of our Soldier Coaches and our country’s young leaders.
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