COMMUNITY FOR COACHES

Kayla Barnes

Cross Country, Swim, Track, Olathe West HS

What was shared about Coach Barnes:  Kayla is an incredible leader and motivator.  There aren’t very many coaches out there who love and care about their athletes the way Coach Barnes does.  She is a new Mom, coaches three sports and helps lead the FCA huddle at West.  Kayla is tireless and enthusiastic…an absolute dynamo! 

Sam SolidayVolleyball, Maranatha Christian Academy and MAVSWhat was shared about Coach Soliday: He is building more than just a volleyball team; he is helping build a family. Coach Soliday brings people together through one common goal and makes them better people. He teaches us friendship, leadership, humility, and confidence. No player leaves the same as when they started and that is all because of his dedication to our team through years of consistent coaching and mentoring. The only reason we won a state title is because of his incredible passion and abilities. He makes each and every player feel cared for, and he makes sure that no matter what happens, we have our priorities set on more than just winning a game. He teaches life lessons like grit and resilience that will carry each player through different seasons of their life, on and off the court. He makes sure we have unity and prioritizes our spiritual life over any title or trophy. He is a fair coach who imprints unforgettable life lessons and lasting bonds between players and coaches. He not only invests in being a high school coach, club coach, and former police officer, but also strongly invests in being an incredible grandfather. He is a family man at heart, and he grows each girl that steps onto his court into a strong woman for Christ.

Stephan Gordon

Football and Wrestling, Summit Christian Academy

What was shared about Coach Gordon: He’s been a wrestling & football coach for about 6 yrs. & has encouraged many in that time. He was a huddle leader in FCA to serve many young kids. He uses Joshua 1:9 to emphasize being strong & courageous in Christ. There’s not enough space her to do justice to what he’s done thus far for our youth. There’s not a better example of Christ’s love than what he shows to many kids who need help in every way. There’s not a better coach in the Metro.

Steve EssexFootball, Basketball, Track, Prairie Star Middle School

What was shared about Coach Essex:  Coach Essex is truly the heartbeat of PSMS, playing an integral role in nearly every sport offered at the school. He is not only the most liked teacher but also the most approachable. Steve is always willing to lend a hand and offer support to anyone in need. Through his coaching and servant leadership style, he demonstrates his faith by pouring into the lives of his athletes, shaping their character, determination, and work ethic. Coach Essex’s influence goes beyond the field or court—he motivates his athletes to not only become better athletes but also better students. His commitment to excellence helps each athlete to be the best version of themselves, fostering a team atmosphere that encourages growth and fellowship. Steve goes above and beyond in coaching football, girls and boys basketball, and track. He dedicates time and energy to develop the physical skills and creating relationships with each individual athlete. His fierce passion for coaching and his genuine care for his athletes make him an invaluable asset to the PSMS community.

Karsen Ong –2025 Rising Star Award Recipient

Sports Performance, Ignite

What was shared about Coach Ong: Karsen has been a total game changer for our staff. He’s one of the youngest coaches I’ve ever added to our staff in the 19 years of Ignite. But Karsen has risen to the occasion. It’s INCREDIBLE watching him interact with young kids… everyone loves him! Additionally, he’s earned the respect of athletes that are 2-3 years older than him in the weight room because of his care, enthusiasm, and attention to detail.

🎙️ Podcast Episode: 2025 KC Metro Coach of the Year Finalists – Celebrating Coaches Who Transform Lives

In this special episode, we shine a spotlight on the 2025 Sharon Thompson KC Metro Coaches of the Year finalists, honoring the men and women who are transforming lives through coaching. Presented by Community for Coaches, this award exists to celebrate coaches who are using sport as a platform to build character, faith, and lifelong impact.

We also take a moment to reflect on the legacy of Sharon Thompson, whose life and leadership continue to shape this award and the values it represents.

This year’s finalists represent a wide range of sports, schools, and communities across the Kansas City metro — but they all have one thing in common: a deep commitment to developing young people beyond the game.

🏆 2025 Finalists for Coach of the Year

Female Finalists:

• Karli Angle (Soccer, Athena FC): Teaching life lessons of resilience and leadership on and off the field.

• Kayla Barnes (Cross Country, Swim, Track – Olathe West HS): A passionate multi-sport coach, new mom, and strong leader with unmatched energy.

• Nikki Hoffman (Basketball, Track – Olathe South HS): Coach Hoffman is intentional about shaping hearts, minds, and character through core values and faith-driven leadership.

Male Finalists:

• Steve Essex (Football, Basketball, Track – Prairie Star MS): The heartbeat of PSMS, modeling servant leadership and encouraging athletes to be their best selves in every area.

• Sam Soliday (Volleyball – Maranatha Christian Academy & MAVS): Coaching with a heart for family and faith, Coach Soliday develops strong women for Christ and teaches life beyond the court.

• Stephan Gordon (Football, Wrestling – Summit Christian Academy): A bold encourager and Christ-like example who lives out Joshua 1:9 in his leadership of young men.

🌟 Rising Star in Coaching Award:

• Karsen Ong (Sports Performance – Ignite): A young but impactful coach, Karsen has earned the admiration of athletes of all ages with his energy, excellence, and enthusiasm.

🗳️ Final Voting is Open Now through April 17 at communityforcoaches.org – Cast your vote for your favorite finalist!

🎉 Save the Date:The 2025 Coaches of the Year Awards Banquet will take place on May 4 at Meadowbrook Park in Prairie Village, KS. Come celebrate these coaches and their incredible impact on our communities.

In this episode, we sit down with Lindsey Wilson, a former Division I and WNBA basketball player, as well as the founder of Positive Performance Training and the Mindset Coach Academy Podcast. Lindsey shares invaluable insights on coaching athletes to develop a healthy mindset, both on and off the court or field. She discusses practical strategies and tools for fostering mental resilience, self-awareness, and a growth-oriented approach to athletics and life. Whether you're a coach, parent, or athlete, this episode is packed with actionable takeaways to help you elevate your mindset and performance.

Coaching Resources:

Dave Francis shares from his vast experience in high school and youth sports as a player, coach and parent.

Dave is the founder of both Repurposed Coaching and the Enjoy the Game.

Enjoy the Game partners with youth sports programs to improve education for parents and coaches.

Repurposed Coaching connects retired coaches interested in filling a support role in the lives of new coaches.