In Part 2 of Soccer for Success, we go deeper.

This conversation moves beyond curriculum and into implementation — how Dallas ISD built a no-cost, district-wide pathway from elementary Spark programs to middle school leagues and high school UIL competition.

We break down how Spark works (grades 2–6), how competitive soccer is introduced the right way, and how over 50 elementary schools are now participating in structured play.

If you’re a parent wondering how to advocate for better sports access…

If you’re a school leader looking for a scalable youth development model…

If you care about keeping kids active and engaged…

This episode gives you the blueprint.

Key Talking Points

How Spark functions as a foundational after-school program

Why grades 3–6 are critical for long-term sports retention

The creation of a competitive elementary soccer league

51 elementary schools currently participating

31 middle schools running interdistrict leagues

No-cost participation for families (equipment included)

How healthy competition is introduced gradually

The importance of PE and Athletics working together

How other school districts can partner with US Soccer Foundation

Why foundational skills reduce dropout rates after sixth grade

Quotes from the Guests

“You don’t have to be a soccer star to teach soccer.” – Lisa Perry

“Ask what your child is learning in physical education and how you can support that.” – Lisa Perry

“We want kids to fall in love with fitness — with moving.” – Dr. Lisa Whitaker

“Spark says we are going to build your skill over time in a safe place.” – Dr. Lisa Whitaker

“We are fully committed to these programs across these two departments.” – Dr. Lisa Whitaker

“My goal was always to give opportunities to kids who can’t afford to play.” – Marisela Lopez

“At this point in my career, I’m more about coaching coaches than coaching players.” – Warren Coddle

“After sixth grade, kids start dropping out.” – Lisa Perry

“We want to provide the opportunity.” – Lisa Perry

“At the end of the day, I want kids active. I want them to play sports.” – Lisa Perry

Connect with the Guests

Warren Cottle

🌐 Website: https://www.ntxsoccer.org/odp/olympic-developm

📧 Email: [email protected]

📸 Instagram: @NTXODP

👍 Facebook: @NTXODP

Lisa Perry

🌐 Website: https://ussoccerfoundation.org

✖️ X: @pe4_u

📸 Instagram: lisakperry23

Dr. Lisa Whitaker

✖️ X: @DrlisaWhitaker

✖️ X: @HPEDallasISD

Marisela Lopez

✖️ X: @MariselaLopez91

Follow Chat By The Pitch

🐦 X: @ChatByThePitch

📷 Instagram: @ChatByThePitch

📘 Facebook: Chat By The Pitch

#ChatByThePitch #SoccerForSuccess #DallasISD #SparkProgram #YouthSoccer #PlayerDevelopment #ParentEducation #SchoolSports #USSOCcerFoundation #HealthyCompetition #CoachingEducation #AccessToSport #YouthAthletics #PhysicalEducation #UILSoccer #CommunitySports #TitleIX #CoachingCoaches #SoccerInSchools

Mentioned in this episode:

TeamPlayr

Soccer Innovations

Zone 14 Coaching

This episode is brought to you by Zone 14 Coaching. Their coaching and player journals help bring structure to the season—giving coaches a place to plan sessions, reflect on what worked, and track player development over time.

Zone 14 Coaching

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