Welcome to Youth Soccer at The J!

My name is Aaron Childers and I'm the latest Manager of Sports & Recreation overseeing the soccer programming. After spending the last 6 years between U.S. Soccer and Major League Soccer in Coaching Education operations and refereeing in my free time, I'm excited to take on a new chapter with all of you. Prior to U.S. Soccer and MLS, I was a coach in Topeka with Topeka Soccer Club and an assistant executive director with Sunflower Soccer. My wife, Rachel, and I live in Overland Park with our daughter, Margot, and our two dogs, Kenzie and Kona.

My goal at The J is to build a welcoming, high-quality soccer pathway that prioritizes development, joy, and accessibility. As we do that, we must steadily grow both participation and credibility within our community.

Over the next year, I aim to identify and establish a club partnership that aligns with these values and helps strengthen our programming, coaching support, and long-term player development vision.

A Kansas City native and Sporting Kansas City legend once said, “When you coach young kids, you carry a major responsibility. You’re teaching and introducing them to the game for the very first time—a game they may fall in love with and have for life. What a cool opportunity, and one we should take seriously.”

That belief is central to my approach. My goal is to give families at The J a place where their child can grow into a confident athlete, develop a strong technical foundation, and build a genuine love for the game—so that when they move on from The J’s soccer programs into the competitive soccer world, they are prepared to pursue whatever goals they set for themselves and parents feel prepared to navigate that journey as a supporting figure.

Our Philosophy

Our soccer program is more than just a game. It’s a space where character, community, and culture come together to help young athletes grow. We believe in using the sport as a tool to teach not only soccer skills but also life lessons that shape children into confident, respectful, and resilient individuals.

We prioritize development over results. Our goal is to create an environment where every child feels supported, encouraged, and able to improve at their own pace—whether they’re kicking a ball for the first time or working toward the next level.

Player-Centered Development

Our approach puts the player first — not the scoreboard. We help kids fall in love with the game through:

• Small-sided games that give more touches and allow for creative decision-making

• Skill building activities that focus on dribbling, passing, and ball control

• Scenario-based play that builds soccer IQ through movement and awareness

• Supportive, fun, and appropriately challenging environments where mistakes are part of the learning process

We want every child to feel confident, inspired, and excited to come back each week.

Coaches Who Connect

Our coaching staff is made up of positive role models who value teaching, mentorship, and consistency. From camps to clinics to teams, our coaches work together to provide age-appropriate instruction with a focus on:

• Foundational technical skills developed through repetition and game play

• Basic tactical concepts that help players read the game and make smart choices

• Personal growth centered on teamwork, respect, and communication

We also invest in ongoing training for our coaches, so they grow alongside the kids they coach.

Parents as Partners

We see families as a key part of our soccer community. We invite you to:

• Watch training and ask questions

• Encourage your child’s effort and enjoyment at home

• Support our values: curiosity, accountability, and perseverance

• Get involved as a volunteer or sideline supporter

Together, we’re creating a culture where every player can thrive.

More Than a Game

Whether your child is brand new to soccer or just getting back into it, we’re here to provide a fun, engaging, and welcoming entry point. Our goal is simple: help young athletes grow through positive experiences and lasting connections.

We’re not just building players. We’re nurturing teammates, leaders, and kids who love to learn.