PHOTO BY STEVE MCLAUGHLIN
Last year Shannon Nichols and Weylin Barrett watched as their sons play for the Varsity Middle School Boys Soccer Team. When they realized that more than 50 kids had tried out for varsity but that no Junior Varsity team existed due to lack of a coach, they decided to change that.
Together, they stepped up to lead the JV program.
“It is hard to find the time to coach,” said Nichols. “I work full time at The Advocates, and Weylin has two jobs working at Alpine Tree Service and at Sun Valley as a ski instructor. But we both know it is worth the effort, and we know how much the kids and parents appreciate it.”
In its first year, the JV team brought together over 24 athletes in grades 6–8 from both public and private schools. This year, the program has grown even stronger, with more than 26 players lacing up their cleats.
Barrett, who brings more than 15 years of coaching experience to the field, is passionate about creating a healthy environment where young athletes not only learn soccer skills but also develop a love for the game.
Nichols, who began coaching last year, has witnessed first-hand the power of sports to build confidence, self-esteem, and lifelong friendships.
“When I was a young girl, playing sports helped me build a healthy lifestyle, learn teamwork, and develop strong friendships,” she said. “Now I get to see our players gaining those same skills and more—skills like respect, responsibility and pride in being part of a team.”
On the JV squad, the lessons go far beyond soccer drills. Players learn that if you miss school, you miss practice or a game. They discuss what respect looks like on and off the field. And they’re reminded that being a great teammate is just as important as being a great player.
But the boys could use some help:
The school district provides new uniforms for each varsity team every five years. Varsity received new uniforms this season, and JV is expected to wear the old set. But this year not enough old uniforms were turned in to outfit the JV team. Only 14 white jerseys and 9 green jerseys remain—just over half of what’s needed to outfit the 26 kids on the JV roster,
Barrett and Nichols want to outfit every player with a proper green jersey—at least 25 in total.
“It may seem like a small thing. But to these athletes, having their own team shirt and number means everything,” said Nichols. “It gives them pride when they step onto the field representing their school and the entire Blaine County community.”
The two soccer coaches are hoping the community will step up to help purchase some new uniforms.
Tax-deductible donations can be made to the Blaine County Education Foundation at https://www.supportbcef.org/. Gifts should be earmarked for the Middle School Athletic Programs.
Checks may be sent to P.O. Box 53, Hailey, ID 83333.
Funds will be used to purchase new uniforms, with Davis Embroidery printing the logo and numbers at a reduced cost.
“Soccer isn’t just the world’s most popular sport—it’s one of the most powerful tools we have for engaging young people here in the Wood River Valley,” said Middle School Athletic Director Matt Nelson. “Our school teams are free, accessible, and inspire students to show up, work hard in class, and stay connected to their peers and community.
“Thanks to Weylin and Shannon’s leadership, dozens of kids now have the chance to be part of something bigger than themselves—to grow, to compete, and to thrive in a positive afterschool environment.”
Questions? Call Shannon Nichols at 503-310-6393.