Weidert_Newnan

Question: What advice would you give to young players entering high school who want to play soccer for their high school
team?

One thing I always tell my guys at our first meeting is get in the Weight Room. I think a common misconception among High School
Soccer players is that they do not need upper body strength. A strong upper body can be a great advantage to players at this level, and
for younger players this can help them compete physically with upper classman sometimes three years older.

Question: What training would you recommend for a high school player who is dedicated to improving him or her self in the
off season?

Learning to dribble with their head up is huge. I see to many players dribbling and looking down at their feet. This narrows the player’s
field vision drastically. So take some cones or you little brother and practice dribbling without looking at the ball.

Question: What advice can you give to those athletes who are not as talented as the top players in the state, but want to
get better and compete on the high school level?

My advice to these players besides the obvious suggestion of working with ball constantly at home, would be to get yourself into prime
physical condition. Make sure your winning every run and physically strong. Endurance, Speed, and Strength can compensate for the
lack great ball skills.

Question: What special skills do you think a successful coach must possess to lead his or her team during the season?

I think you need to be able to connect with your players on personal level. It’s not all x’s and o’s. If your players do not believe you to have
a personal stake in their success it will become difficult for you to demand their maximum effort.

Question: How has being a teacher helped you become a better coach?

I think just dealing with students on an everyday basis, helps you get a better grasp on how to effectively manage them.

Question: What advice would you give to student athletes who are struggling academically in school?

My advice would be get extra help after school and try to work this out with your coach, but if your sport is getting in the way of your
grades better to drop the sport than fail in school.

Question: To whom or what do you attribute your ability to be a successful high school coach?

I would attribute my ability to have some success in High School Coaching to two people specifically; My Father and John Bowen (Former
Newnan Varsity Woman’s Coach). They both taught me a great deal about the game and even more about how to manage and relate to
players.

What do you love about the game of soccer?

I think the aspect I love the most about soccer is the creativity of the game. I love how players have to learn how to react too many
situations occurring rapidly. There is no coach telling you exactly what you need to do every second. You have to understand the game.

What do you love about coaching high school soccer?

That’s easy, I love working with the players. They have such a passion to win.

Who is your favorite professional soccer team?

Ajax, I saw them play once while in Europe.

Who is your favorite professional soccer player?

Cristiano Ronaldo

Who is your favorite college soccer team?

Canisius College

Who taught you the game of soccer?

My Father, I owe him a lot.

Thanks to Coach Weidert for all he does for High school soccer. Good luck to Newnan High School Soccer in the upcoming
season.


Interview with Coach Jason Weidert Newnan High School Head Boys Soccer Coach