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Social Emotional Learning (SEL)

At TechFit Soccer, we go beyond technical skills to develop well-rounded individuals. Our Social-Emotional Learning (SEL) program is woven into every training session, fostering vital life skills like self-awareness, teamwork, and responsible decision-making. We believe that by nurturing emotional intelligence and character, we empower our players to succeed not just on the field, but in all aspects of life.

Social-Emotional Learning (SEL) at TechFit Soccer

At TechFit Soccer, we believe that developing well-rounded individuals is just as important as nurturing exceptional athletes. That's why Social-Emotional Learning (SEL) is a fundamental pillar of our training philosophy. Soccer, at its core, is a team sport that inherently provides a rich environment for cultivating crucial life skills that extend far beyond the pitch.

We integrate the five core competencies of SEL – Self-Awareness, Self-Management, Social Awareness, Relationship Skills, and Responsible Decision-Making – into every aspect of our program, fostering a holistic approach to player development.

How We Integrate SEL into Our Training:

 

1. Self-Awareness:

  • Recognizing Strengths & Areas for Growth: Coaches regularly provide constructive feedback, encouraging players to understand their unique abilities and identify areas where they can improve, both technically and personally.

  • Understanding Emotions: We create a safe space for players to express their feelings, whether it's frustration after a missed shot or excitement after a goal. Our coaches guide them in recognizing and labeling these emotions, promoting emotional intelligence.

2. Self-Management:

  • Setting Goals & Perseverance: Players are encouraged to set individual and team goals, learning the discipline and effort required to achieve them. We emphasize the importance of resilience when facing setbacks and the value of continuous improvement.

  • Managing Impulses & Stress: Through challenging drills and game scenarios, players learn to stay calm under pressure, control impulsive reactions, and develop coping mechanisms for stress and frustration.

3. Social Awareness:

  • Empathy & Perspective-Taking: Team-based activities and discussions foster an understanding of teammates' feelings and perspectives. Players learn to celebrate successes together and offer support during challenges, building a strong sense of collective responsibility.

  • Respect for Others: We instill the importance of respect for teammates, opponents, coaches, and officials. Fair play, good sportsmanship, and acknowledging diverse backgrounds are key values in our program.

4. Relationship Skills:

  • Effective Communication: Players are taught to communicate clearly and constructively with teammates during drills and games, both verbally and non-verbally. We encourage active listening and supportive feedback.

  • Teamwork & Collaboration: Every drill and game emphasizes working together towards a common goal. Players learn to rely on each other, resolve conflicts peacefully, and build strong, positive relationships within the team.

5. Responsible Decision-Making:

  • Problem-Solving on the Field: Coaches challenge players to make quick and intelligent decisions during game situations, encouraging them to think critically about their choices and their impact on the team.

  • Ethical Choices & Accountability: We promote integrity and accountability, guiding players to understand the consequences of their actions and to take responsibility for their behavior, both on and off the field.

Nessma Ismail

Having my son Nasir be part of TechFit has truly been one of the most transformative experiences of his young life. From the moment he joined, I saw a change not just in his skillset on the field, but in his confidence, discipline, and leadership off of it.

 

Coach Chris is more than just a coach, he’s a mentor, a role model, and someone who genuinely invests in each player’s growth. He sees the potential in every kid and pushes them to rise to it. Nasir has learned to trust in his abilities, to work hard, and to stay focused, lessons that extend far beyond soccer.

 

TechFit has created an environment where players feel challenged, supported, and part of something bigger. The training is elite, the camaraderie is unmatched, and the opportunities like the Mammoth Lakes camp are unforgettable. Nasir came home more motivated than ever, inspired by his peers and the passion Coach Chris brings every day.

 

We are so grateful to be part of the TechFit family. I’d recommend it to any parent who wants to see their child grow into a stronger athlete and an even better person. 💕

WHAT PEOPLE SAY

Stephanie Oliva

First and foremost, I would like to extend my deepest gratitude to Coach Chris for his dedication and selflessness. His commitment to always putting the kids first has not gone unnoticed and is truly appreciated.

 

The Mammoth Lakes experience was unforgettable—not only was the soccer outstanding, but the bonds formed among the players and families were very meaningful. This trip provided a perfect blend of high-level athletics and much needed quality family time, we can’t wait to go back! 

 

Watching Coach Chris care for each child and push them to reach their full potential was inspiring and impactful. One of the highlights of the camp was the journaling activity, which reinforced personal discipline and self-reflection—skills that will benefit the kids in every aspect of their lives as they grow up to be student athletes. 

 

Thank you, Coach Chris, for making this incredible experience possible, especially in such a short time frame. Your effort, passion, and commitment do not go unnoticed, and we are truly grateful. Since day 1, I’ve seen such positive growth in Amari—he’s listening better than ever, and it’s clear that the lessons from camp are sticking.

 

What sets Coach Chris apart is that his focus extends beyond soccer. He is helping to raise respectful, disciplined, and thoughtful young individuals. Being part of Techfit has been one of the best decisions I’ve made for Amari and our family. This program is not just about sports—it’s a family-centered community that continuously creates life-changing opportunities.

 

The growth of these young athletes is nothing short of remarkable. I still remember our first game and the tough 20-0 loss just 6-8 months ago—it’s amazing to witness how far the team has come since then.

 

I’m honored to be part of the Techfit family and will continue to support it in any way I can. This community brings me peace of mind as a parent, knowing that my son is surrounded by genuine care, firm guidance, constructive feedback, and meaningful life lessons.

 

Coach Chris, thank you for aligning with my values and supporting me in raising a strong, balanced, and kind young man. Your impact has been truly life-changing, and for that, I am forever thankful.

Kevin Lai

Being a part of the Techfit Academy has been a rewarding experience for my family. Coach Chris’ dedication to developing and nurturing his players is unmatched. What sets him apart from others is his demand for respect and focus - to him, the other players and the pitch. My son comes out of each training session hungry for more. Chris strikes the perfect balance between intensity and fun, keeping all his players fully engaged. It’s an art form that is unique to Chris.

 

Techfit trainings always revolve around a “skill of the day” and a complementary focus (e.g., concept, mindset, or social learning) that guides the entire session. This thematic approach serves as a North Star for the players, ensuring that every drill and technique ties back to the central theme and reinforces their understanding of the day’s training objectives.

 

I also appreciate Techfit’s Individual Development Plans where players can write goals, reflect on prior trainings/games and come up with effective improvement plans with Chris. The attention to each individual is highly refreshing - Chris can reflect instantly on the players’ strengths and weaknesses and provide the correct feedback to his players. Not only within the bounds of skills and technique on the pitch, but also through their psychosocial growth and self-reflection.

 

Attending Mammoth soccer camp was a great bonding experience for my son Jalen. Having the opportunity to train in elevation was the goal, but he came back refreshed and ready to start his summer with a sense of camaraderie with his teammates, a heightened thirst for improvement and an appreciation for our natural world. Jalen’s first athletics camp experience was unforgettable and I know this will be a core memory for him.

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