Soccer…the Real Football ⚽️?! with Coach Stephen Ekugwum

"Soccer has the power to teach life skills and values that go beyond the game." In soccer and life, challenges are inevitable, but it's how you tackle them that defines your journey.  Some people believe that soccer is just a sport played on a field, but for those who have experienced its transformative magic, it's a journey of self-discovery, resilience, and camaraderie. It has been said that it is beneficial to kids because it nurtures not only physical prowess but also mental and emotional well-being. Through soccer, kids learn the art of teamwork, discovering the strength that comes from collaboration and shared goals.

Moreover, soccer is not confined to the boundaries of a field, for the challenges athletes face on the soccer field can be seen as metaphors for the challenges that life throws at us. It is a journey of self-discovery, where players learn not only about their physical capabilities but also about their strengths, weaknesses, and the importance of perseverance. Undoubtedly, soccer is a profound teacher, shaping character, instilling values, and providing a platform for personal development. Therefore, as we navigate the soccer field of life, let us carry the lessons from the pitch into the broader arena of our daily lives.

Coach Stephen Ekugwum is a Professional Athlete, Fitness Trainer and a distinguished figure in the world of soccer coaching. Born in the United States to Nigerian parents, Coach Ekugwum's journey in soccer began under the guidance of his father, who played at the national level in Nigeria. His early exposure to the game and a memorable training session with his father became the foundation for a successful soccer career. Hailing from Jackson, Coach Stephen has seamlessly translated his rich soccer-playing history into a successful coaching career. Known for his infectious energy and unwavering enthusiasm, Coach Stephen is a coach who consistently brings a smile to the game. 

In this special episode with Coach Stephen Ekugwum, we will explore the fascinating world of soccer, and how it shapes not only athletic abilities but also character and life skills. We will also learn pivotal lessons in the life of our guest speaker and discover how he goes beyond the technical aspects of soccer to focus on instilling qualities such as teamwork, discipline, and responsibility in his players. Tune in for a conversation that goes beyond goals and victories, aiming to uncover the true essence of the beautiful game of soccer.

"Soccer is a game for all kids because it's such a character-building tool that you can use in the younger ages." – Stephen Ekugwum

Topics Covered:

(00:00:42) Welcoming our guest, Coach Stephen Ekugwum.

(00:02:28) Soccer: A character-building game

(00:03:28) How does Nigerian culture impact Stephen's upbringing?

(00:06:29) Merits of early soccer experience

(00:10:48) Stephen's soccer journey

(00:15:50) How Stephen handled his injury in soccer

(00:17:57) Significance of fitness, rest, and recovery

(00:20:15) Quick Reminder: Are you enjoying this episode? Please share it, leave a five-star review, and give feedback. Go to TimeOut with the SportsDr website.

(00:20:03) What it is that you want to get out of playing soccer?

(00:22:55) Focus on how your child learns

(00:23:46) How to compartmentalize coach and parent roles

(00:25:45) The risk of burnout in young soccer players

(00:28:48) Final TimeOut with Stephen Ekugwum: How do you utilize the game of soccer to teach young athletes about the important tools in life?

(00:32:01) The reward of a soccer coach

(00:33:01) Connect with Stephen Ekugwum

(00:34:19) No child left behind

Key Takeaways: 

"For my father to take that time away to spend with me and believed that I could do something with that, playing soccer for me, it was almost like paying him back for the rest of my life." – Stephen Ekugwum

"Strength and conditioning is very important for soccer. Soccer entails a lot of explosive movements, a lot of cutting and changing directions with a lot of torque and fast action so we must strengthen these ligaments, tendons, and muscles." – Stephen Ekugwum

"If the professional game is your child's goal in playing soccer and if your child is showing that he wants or she wants to put that effort in, I am a full advocate for allowing them to have as much exposure as possible at the correct time." – Stephen Ekugwum

"It's good tool for parents to use to have that happy medium of how hard do I push my son or my daughter or when do I take a seat back and allow my son to grow and also fail." – Stephen Ekugwum

"Having self-awareness, knowing your weaknesses and strengths on the soccer field is the same in the secular world and in the professional world." – Stephen Ekugwum

"I think the two biggest word that you can use when it comes to sports is self-awareness and discipline. If you have those too, then I truly believe that you can almost do anything." – Stephen Ekugwum

Connect with Stephen Ekugwum: 

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/stephen.kenennachukuma 

Twitter: https://twitter.com/Ekugwum

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/chukwumakenenna/

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/stephen-kenenna-ekugwum-a11787b8/

Connect with Dr. Derrick Burgess:

Website: https://www.drderrickthesportsdr.com/

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/drderrickthesportsdr/

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/TimeOut.SportsDr

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/derrick-burgess-72047b246/

YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCHGDu1zT4K_X6PnYELu8weg

Email: thesportsdoctr@gmail.com

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