The energy was high, and the stakes were simple: invest in the next generation.
On June 11–12, Soldiers to Sidelines partnered with the Washington Commanders to host a two-day Soldier Coach Workshop and High School Football Skills Clinic at the team’s practice facility in Ashburn, Virginia.
Thanks to the support of Wells Fargo, Vehicles for Veterans, CVS Health, and the Washington Commanders, 10 Soldiers to Sidelines Soldier Coaches spent more than 12 hours sharpening their coaching skills, strengthening their leadership abilities, and preparing to deliver an unforgettable experience for local student-athletes.
For many of these Soldier Coaches, the workshop represented another chapter in their mission of service. After dedicating themselves to serving their country, they are now choosing to serve their communities through sports.
That mission came to life on day two.
More than 50 student-athletes from schools across the Washington, D.C., area, including Digital Pioneers Academy, Bishop O’Connell High School, and Heritage High School, arrived ready to learn from coaches who bring both football knowledge and real-world leadership experience to the field.
The clinic kicked off with an inspiring message from Washington Commanders Head Coach Dan Quinn, who encouraged students to chase their goals, embrace hard work, and believe in their potential.
Throughout the two-hour clinic, Soldier Coaches led position-specific instruction at every level of the game, helping athletes develop technical skills while reinforcing the values that matter most: teamwork, discipline, accountability, and perseverance.
Participants also had the opportunity to hear from notable guests, including Washington Commanders President Mark Clouse and mentors Chris Bailey and Dan Levy.
The day concluded with a team-building exercise led by the U.S. Army Recruiting Command, offering students a hands-on look at leadership in action and meaningful conversations about service, teamwork, and future opportunities.
“This was a tremendous experience for everyone involved,” said Harrison Bernstein, Founder and CEO of Soldiers to Sidelines. “The athletes got exposed to the highest level of football instruction by Soldiers to Sidelines Soldier Coaches who work tirelessly to have a positive influence on kids and athletes while experiencing the great qualities of military service.”
Events like these demonstrate the power of sport to create connections that extend far beyond the field. By bringing together professional organizations, military leaders, coaches, and student-athletes, Soldiers to Sidelines continues to show that leadership learned through service can inspire and transform communities.
A special thank you to the Washington Commanders for opening their doors and hosting this impactful event, and to Wells Fargo, Vehicles for Veterans, and CVS Health for helping make these opportunities possible.