Neuse River Spotlight (June 2023)
COACH CONNOR
NRFA 2013 Ajax Boys Team
With three years of coaching under his belt, Coach Connor has already made a significant impact on our NRFA community. Coach Connor started his career coaching our NRFA Academy where he honed his skills and developed a passion for nurturing young talents. Over the past two years, Coach Connor has guided his classic team to earning a runner-up medal in the competitive 2023 Wilmington Seaside Classic.
Coach Conner started playing recreational soccer at the age of 5, and by the age of 10 transitioned to the classic level; proudly representing Carolina Soccer Club. He achieved a State Championship while playing for CASL, and in High School he was an integral part of Clayton High’s successful soccer program. In his senior year, he even earned a set on the All-Conference Team. Coach Conner continues to embrace the game by playing on the TASL adult league; sharing the pitch with fellow NRFA Coaches.
When asked what goals he has set for the 23-24 season, Coach Connor noted, “We haven't set our goals for the season yet as I like the boys to define their own goals as a team. That being said, my goal for them is to just have fun and enjoy playing soccer with their friends. I am a firm believer in the mind-body connection and the part it plays in soccer player development.”
To Coach Connor, NRFA is a family.
Coach Connor sees the opportunity to impart their knowledge to the next generation of NRFA players as a true privilege. Together with his fellow talented NRFA Coaches, they strive for excellence both on and off the pitch.
Fun fact about Coach Connor:
“…when I'm not coaching I'm tending to a 1000 sq ft garden in my backyard. My wife and I love to grow our food. We are always drowning in zucchini and squash so if you need some let us know.” (Coach, we just might take you up on that offer!)
Coach Connor’s favorite quote.
"50% of doing anything, is believing you can do it" - Me