Youth center looking for able coaches, mentors

  • Published
  • By Airman Jacob Corbin
  • 82nd Training Wing Public Affairs
SHEPPARD AIR FORCE BASE, Texas --  The Madrigal Youth Center is constantly looking for talented individuals willing to dedicate their time to helping instruct and motivate young children in sports.

Volunteers don't have to be a professional sports coach, or even have any experience; they just need to be willing and able to be a mentor and more to a child.

"We expect our volunteers to be enthusiastic," said Ramon Benavides, youth sports director at the Madrigal Youth Center. "They come in all wrappers and genders, and each one makes an impact."

Coaches volunteer for a number of reasons but all share a love for helping young sports enthusiasts.

"I know the importance of physical activities and sports," said Sean Seay, a youth coach and parent of a player. "(By doing this) I get the chance to be a mentor and get them involved in sports."

A prospective volunteer must meet strict standards, ranging from required references to a background check, in order to ensure the children's safety and well-being.

In addition, coaches must complete an interview with the youth center's staff and, depending on the knowledge shown, attend training on coaching and sports.
All coaches also attend a certification course held by the youth center which instructs them on things such as CPR and first aid techniques.

Youth coaches are responsible for scheduling practices and developing young players in addition to being a cheerleader, psychologist and parent of sorts, Benavides said.
Benavides also said that coaches spend about five hours a week holding practices and overseeing games.
Of course, there are some unpleasant things a youth sports coach must deal with from time to time.
Benavides said impatient parents not understanding a coach's plan or a coach making errors in judgment are a few things a volunteer may have to face, but that the smile on a child's face makes it all worth it.

Seay said that even after a rough day, seeing their smiles and hearing them go "hey coach" makes it worth it.

"It uplifts you because you know you're really doing something for them and their families," Seay said.

Coaches are needed for baseball, softball and soccer.

Soccer is for ages 3 to 12 and runs from February to April. Baseball, for ages 3 to 14, and softball, for ages 9 to 12, is held from March to June.

Call the Madrigal Youth Center at 676-5437 for more information on becoming a youth sports coach.