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Interview with Coach Chris Cochran
South Gwinnett High School - Head Boys Soccer Coach
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What do you teach at South Gwinnett?
I teach Economics, Political Systems, and World Geography.
How has being a teacher made you a better coach?
I love teaching and coaching is an extension of the classroom. I feel the quality of instruction is crucial to a soccer team’s success on the
field just like the success of my students in the classroom.
How has the transition from Dalton to South Gwinnett been for you?
I spent many wonderful years at Dalton and develop some close relationships with my colleagues, players, and the community, so that is
always tough. On the other hand, the South administration, faculty and coaches have helped my transition be as smooth as possible.
What it was like winning a State Championship at Dalton in 2003?
Just being apart of that is amazing – it’s priceless! I was an assistant on that staff and had coach the juniors and seniors on that team
since they were in the 7th grade so I had a strong bond with those players. Coach Cheaves did a wonderful job preparing that team
during the season and the players rose their level of play each game during the playoff run. Many great memories came from that
season.
What made your Championship team special?
Well first of all, that team belongs to the players, coaches, and the community of Dalton. The eagerness of the players to get better
everyday was special within itself. The played for each other! Sure there were a lot of great players on that team, but they played team
concept soccer all year and it paid off.
How long have you been coaching at the high school level?
11 years
What kind of Coaching jobs have you had in the past? (club, other schools, rec)
I have coached on the rec, club, middle, and high school levels. I started the middle school feeder program at Dalton Middle School and
moved up to Dalton High School and coached the Junior Varsity and assisted on the Varsity team. I also ran the Catamount Camp of
Champions for our high school program.
What is your favorite college and professional team?
Without a doubt it’s the Georgia Bulldogs on the collegiate level and Manchester United on the Professional level.
Can you describe how you got into coaching?
I knew I want to coach as soon as my playing days were over. I coached rec, club, and worked camps until I started teaching which
enabled me to coach on the high school level. I just enjoy seeing young people excel on the playing field.
Who has had the biggest impact on your coaching style and direction as a coach?
I had several great coaches as a player and learned a great deal from Coach Cheaves and through the coaching experience I think you
develop a coaching identity. That changes from time to time also.
What was your most memorable soccer moment as a coach?
Of course winning the State Championship in 2003 is at the top. I have several other things I’m proud of as a coach like finishing as the
state – runner –up in 2004, winning 60 consecutive games as the Dalton JV coach and starting a program at Dalton Middle School.
What were your memorable experiences as a player in the past?
I had a big senior year where I scored 15 goals and had 12 assists during the season. I’m very proud I was offered a soccer scholarship
to Tennessee Tech University. I had a lot of great times with the people I played with.
In your opinion, what makes coaching high school soccer so special?
In my opinion, the school spirit that a school offers to its players. You take the kids you have at school and develop them into a team that
the players, families, and community can be proud of. I think High School offers more memories for the players because they are with
each other everyday unlike club teams that just usually get together only to play on weekends.
Do you have any advice you can share with athletes around the state?
Yes, whatever you want out of the sport you’re involved in you must put in the time and effort to succeed. Whatever ability you have, use
it to its fullest intent. I have a saying that I think is true about sports “Your not born a Champion, You become a Champion”
Best Wishes to Coach Chris Cochran and his South Gwinnett Comets this season!!!!
