WYOMING SOCCER CONTINUES TO GROW THE KICKSTART FUND

One Gift. One Goal. Endless Impact.

Wyoming Soccer Association is proud to continue building momentum around the KickStart Fund, an initiative founded by one of our own talented athletes to ensure that financial barriers never stand in the way of opportunity.

The premise is simple but powerful: when a player earns selection to a higher-level opportunity; whether through 307 Select, Wyoming ODP, Regional, or National events, cost should not be the reason they cannot go. These moments matter. They represent years of dedication, travel, training, evaluation, and perseverance. They open doors to growth, exposure, and development at the highest levels available to our athletes.

We are especially excited to share that we have officially supported our first KickStart recipient, helping offset expenses for a player who has worked hard to earn a special invite reserved for the best! This milestone represents more than a financial award; it represents belief, community, and shared investment in a young athlete’s journey.

The KickStart Fund is still growing, and our vision is ambitious: To support every deserving Wyoming player who needs financial assistance as they pursue their soccer dreams.

...But we cannot do it alone.

The continued success of the KickStart Fund depends entirely on the strength and generosity of the Wyoming Soccer community: families, alumni, businesses, and supporters who believe in leveling the playing field.

Together, we can ensure that opportunity is earned by effort...not determined by circumstance.

One gift. One goal. Endless impact.

If you would like to help grow the KickStart Fund and support future recipients, we invite you to contribute and be part of the journey.

OVERCOMING THE REFEREE SHORTAGE

Wyoming Soccer is working hard to gain more referees, and the best way to do that is to host or attend a referee clinic. We invite you to take advantage of the opportunity to earn some extra money, familiarize yourself with the rules and see things from a new perspective!

Contact Roger Brown if you have questions.

Click the below button to find out about all our upcoming Wyoming Referee Clinics.

If your club is interested in hosting a referee clinic, please click HERE.

If you are interested in becoming a referee in 2026, please click HERE.

WITH OR AGAINST THE WIND?

The Real Question when You're from Wyoming!

Spring soccer in Wyoming brings a familiar opponent every coach knows well, the wind. 🌬️

It sparks a simple question that’s anything but simple:

If you win the coin toss… do you go with the wind or against it?

The truth? There’s no universally “right” answer. But the thinking behind your choice can say a lot about your team, your environment, and your coaching approach.

🌪️ Going With the Wind

Choosing the wind at your back often signals intent to start fast and take control early.

Coaches might lean this direction when:

• Confidence needs a boost after tough results
• A strong start could shift momentum
• Conditions are expected to calm as the game progresses
• The team performs best when playing with a lead

It’s about setting the tone early and putting pressure on the opponent.

💨 Going Against the Wind

Opting to play into the wind first can reflect long-term strategy and resilience.

This might make sense when:

• Your team is fitter and can capitalize late
• Wind conditions are expected to worsen
• Your group stays composed regardless of score
• You trust your ability to adapt and finish strong

It’s a choice rooted in endurance, discipline, and belief.

🌄 Don’t Forget the Wyoming Variables

In our environment, the decision isn’t just tactical, it’s practical.

Consider:

• Time of day and sun position ☀️
• Wind direction and forecast changes
• Field orientation
• Seasonal conditions

These are real factors that can influence outcomes more than we sometimes admit.

🧠 The Real Question: What Happens at Halftime?

While the coin toss matters, the halftime talk matters more.

This is where games are often won or lost.

Ask yourself:

• Are your coaching points intentional and connected to recent training?
• Are players given space to reflect and contribute?
• Is your staff aligned and organized in messaging?
• Are you clear and concise, or trying to cover too much?

🎯 Simplify to Amplify

Here’s a powerful lens to consider:

• If you’re ahead at halftime → You can likely focus on one phase of the game (e.g., defensive structure to close out the match).
• If you’re behind → You may need to address multiple phases, increasing complexity and cognitive load for players.

That’s why some coaches prefer going with the wind, not just for the first half advantage, but to simplify halftime communication and sharpen focus for the second half.

🗣️ Final Thought

This isn’t about finding the answer, it’s about asking better questions:

• What gives my team the best chance to succeed?
• How does this decision impact my halftime message?
• Am I setting my players up for clarity or confusion?

Because in the end, it’s not just about the wind…It’s about how clearly your players can think, adapt, and execute when the game is on the line.

Next time you win the toss, don’t just pick a direction, pick a plan.

David Eldred, Technical Director, Wyoming Soccer

Contact Dave at td@wyomingsoccer.com.