Coach No. 5: Sofia Shakham is a current Division I soccer player at LIU Post, balancing the demands of high-level athletics with a degree in Biology. Beyond the field, she’s already making her mark as a youth sports coach, bringing passion, patience, and perspective to every team she leads.

In this episode, Coach Shakham shares what it’s like to juggle academics, coaching, and college athletics, the lessons she's learned from both sides of the whistle, and her advice for young athletes looking to make an impact on and off the field.

Welcome to Called in the Huddle — a short-form interview series from CoachCorner, the platform connecting youth sports coaches with programs that need them.

In each 15–20 minute episode, we sit down with standout coaches whom are shaping the future of youth athletics. These are real conversations about what drew them to coaching, the mentors who’ve guided them, and the advice they’d pass on to the next generation.

Whether you’re a seasoned coach, a rising talent, or just someone who loves the game, you’ll walk away inspired by the stories of leadership, grit, and purpose that make youth sports so powerful.

Go to coachcorner.io or email us at [email protected] to get connected!

Coach No. 4: Chris Schortgen is the newly named head volleyball coach at Manhattan College. A former Division I player and dedicated mentor, he’s already earned three-time CUNY Coach of the Year honors and built a reputation for turning programs around with heart, hustle, and high standards.

In this episode, Coach Schortgen talks about his journey from athlete to award-winning coach, how he builds trust and culture within a team, the transition to leading a D1 program, and what drives his passion for growing the game.

Welcome to Called in the Huddle — a short-form interview series from CoachCorner, the platform connecting youth sports coaches with programs that need them.

In each 15–20 minute episode, we sit down with standout coaches whom are shaping the future of youth athletics. These are real conversations about what drew them to coaching, the mentors who’ve guided them, and the advice they’d pass on to the next generation.

Whether you’re a seasoned coach, a rising talent, or just someone who loves the game, you’ll walk away inspired by the stories of leadership, grit, and purpose that make youth sports so powerful.

Go to coachcorner.io or email us at [email protected] to get connected!

Coach No. 3: Holland Rutter is a current lacrosse player at Emerson College, where she’s studying Sports Communication while balancing the demands of collegiate athletics. Beyond the classroom and the field, she’s gained hands-on coaching experience through Lacrosse America, helping develop the next generation of players.

In this episode, Coach Rutter talks about what it’s like to coach while still competing, how communication plays a role in leadership, the lessons she’s learned from being both a player and a coach, and her advice to young women looking to grow in the world of sports.

Welcome to Called in the Huddle — a short-form interview series from CoachCorner, the platform connecting youth sports coaches with programs that need them.

In each 15–20 minute episode, we sit down with standout coaches whom are shaping the future of youth athletics. These are real conversations about what drew them to coaching, the mentors who’ve guided them, and the advice they’d pass on to the next generation.

Whether you’re a seasoned coach, a rising talent, or just someone who loves the game, you’ll walk away inspired by the stories of leadership, grit, and purpose that make youth sports so powerful.

Go to coachcorner.io or email us at [email protected] to get connected!

Coach No. 2: Tom Kleinschmidt is the head coach at DePaul College Prep, where he has led the team to three straight championships and was recently named Coach of the Year. A former standout player himself, Coach Kleinschmidt has built a powerhouse program focused on discipline, hard work, and player development.

In this episode, Coach Kleinschmidt talks about his transition from player to coach, the keys to building a winning culture, what motivates him to keep pushing for excellence, and his advice for young athletes and future coaches.

Welcome to Called in the Huddle — a short-form interview series from CoachCorner, the platform connecting youth sports coaches with programs that need them.

In each 15–20 minute episode, we sit down with standout coaches whom are shaping the future of youth athletics. These are real conversations about what drew them to coaching, the mentors who’ve guided them, and the advice they’d pass on to the next generation.

Whether you’re a seasoned coach, a rising talent, or just someone who loves the game, you’ll walk away inspired by the stories of leadership, grit, and purpose that make youth sports so powerful.

Go to coachcorner.io or email us at [email protected] to get connected!

Coach No. 1: Elijah Cooley is a seasoned athletic coach with over 20 years of experience. He founded his own AAU basketball program in Chicago, has coached multiple sports, and is a father, role model, clothing brand owner, and designer. He recently wrapped up his first collegiate season as a coach at East-West University.

In this episode, Coach Cooley shares his coaching journey, talks about who inspired him, discusses the challenges he’s faced finding coaching opportunities, and offers advice for the next generation of aspiring coaches.

Welcome to Called in the Huddle — a short-form interview series from CoachCorner, the platform connecting youth sports coaches with programs that need them.

In each 15–20 minute episode, we sit down with standout coaches whom are shaping the future of youth athletics. These are real conversations about what drew them to coaching, the mentors who’ve guided them, and the advice they’d pass on to the next generation.

Whether you’re a seasoned coach, a rising talent, or just someone who loves the game, you’ll walk away inspired by the stories of leadership, grit, and purpose that make youth sports so powerful.

Go to coachcorner.io or email us at [email protected] to get connected!