We are proud to announce that Kenny Stepp, retired United States Army Sergeant First Class, has been selected as the Soldiers To Sidelines (STS) Soldier Coach of the Month for September 2024. With an inspiring coaching journey spanning 19 years, Kenny exemplifies the values of leadership, dedication, and resilience that define the STS community.
From Soldier to Coach
Kenny’s military service as a leader in the U.S. Army has significantly influenced his approach to coaching. During his time in the service, Kenny learned the importance of guiding, directing, and motivating others. These leadership qualities transitioned seamlessly into his second career as a coach. Today, Kenny applies the military values of purpose, direction, and motivation to the athletes he mentors in football, basketball, and strength and conditioning.
In his current role, Kenny coaches football at Freedom High School, focusing on the defensive backs, particularly the safety positions for both JV and Varsity levels. Additionally, he contributes to the school’s special teams, specifically working with the kickoff coverage unit. Outside of school sports, he coaches youth flag football at Mountain View Youth Recreation and youth basketball through the YMCA, helping to shape young athletes aged 10 and 12 in these crucial developmental years.
A Calling to Impact Lives
Kenny’s journey into coaching was deeply personal. Growing up, he experienced firsthand the transformative power of a good coach. “I remember the impact that my football coaches had on me growing up,” he reflects. “If it were not for those coaches pushing me to be the best I could be and encouraging me to go out and believe in myself, there’s no telling where I would be today.” Kenny’s desire to give back in the same way fuels his passion for coaching. His goal is not just to teach the X’s and O’s of sports but to be a light in the lives of young athletes, offering them the same encouragement he once received.
Kenny emphasizes that coaching is about more than just winning games. “I take more pride in developing the leaders of tomorrow, the husbands and fathers of the future,” he says. For Kenny, the true victories are seen in the positive growth of his players as they become responsible, compassionate adults. His lasting connections with former players, many of whom reach out to update him on their lives, are a testament to the life-changing impact he continues to have.
Overcoming Challenges, On and Off the Field
Kenny’s coaching journey hasn’t been without its challenges. From surviving open-heart surgery and a spinal surgery to stepping back from an opportunity at Brevard College due to severe health complications from COVID-19, Kenny’s personal resilience mirrors the lessons he teaches his athletes. His ability to overcome these obstacles and return to coaching with renewed passion speaks volumes about his character and dedication.
One of Kenny’s most significant learning experiences as a coach came during his time at a Christian Academy with low participation numbers. Despite these challenges, he and his team pushed through, embodying the “never give up” attitude that Kenny admires in both his players and military comrades. It was a season where life lessons far outweighed any tactical lessons about football, and it further reinforced his belief in perseverance and teamwork.
The Soldiers To Sidelines Impact
Kenny credits much of his recent success and growth as a coach to Soldiers To Sidelines. He first heard about the organization through Brevard College Head Coach Bill Khayat, who encouraged him to get involved. However, the COVID-19 pandemic and his subsequent health struggles delayed his full participation. Now, fully invested and healthier than ever, Kenny has embraced the opportunities that STS has provided. Whether attending virtual events or in-person workshops, he is an active member of the STS community, mentoring other coaches and expanding his network across the country.
“Soldiers To Sidelines has impacted my life in ways that I am very blessed for. I’ve been able to grow my coaching network in ways I never thought possible and become a mentor to many coaches around the country,” Kenny says, reflecting on his deep appreciation for the organization.
Looking Forward
When asked about his future aspirations in coaching, Kenny remains open to whatever opportunities come his way. Although he is content helping athletes at the high school and youth levels, he remains passionate about the prospect of returning to a collegiate coaching role, provided it fits both his and his family’s needs. Having already served as a head coach and offensive coordinator at the high school and junior college levels, Kenny is prepared for whatever comes next, but his top priority will always be his family and their well-being.
In his current role, Kenny continues to focus on what he loves most about coaching: helping young athletes become better people. Whether it’s guiding them on the field or teaching them life lessons, his impact reaches far beyond sports.
Kenny Stepp is more than just a coach; he is a mentor, a role model, and a true leader. His dedication to helping others, honed through his military service and his personal resilience, shines through in every team he works with. For his incredible contributions to the Soldiers To Sidelines community and his unwavering commitment to his athletes, we are honored to celebrate Kenny Stepp as our Soldier Coach of the Month for September 2024.
Congratulations, Coach Stepp! We are grateful for your service, both on the field and off, and we look forward to seeing your continued success.
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