Norfolk, VA (November 26th, 2024) – For Coach Jay Martinez, the journey into coaching didn’t start on a soccer field—it began in service to his country. After separating from the military, Jay found himself missing something deeper: a sense of purpose and the drive to serve a greater good. That’s when coaching youth soccer stepped into his life, filling that void with new meaning.
“I missed serving and having a purpose,” Jay shares. “Coaching youth soccer became the perfect outlet to fuel my competitive spirit while passing on the lessons I learned from my own youth.” Lessons of hard work, teamwork, dedication, and resilience have become the core values he now instills in the next generation of players.
A Lesson Beyond the Game
When asked about the one key value he hopes to teach his players, Jay’s message is clear: “Anything is possible with the proper attitude!” This simple yet powerful belief is something he carries from his own experiences, both on and off the field. He emphasizes that the right mindset isn’t just important for winning games—it’s a foundation for achieving dreams and overcoming life’s challenges.
Building a Soccer Community
Jay sees West Virginia Soccer as more than just a club; he sees it as a catalyst for growth, both in soccer and in life. “We provide a platform where like-minded families and players can develop in a sport we’re all passionate about. Our programs are designed to take players to the next level in their soccer journey.”
But for Jay, the focus goes beyond athletic development. The club’s supportive environment helps shape young athletes into positive contributors to society. “It’s about surrounding our youth with dedicated families and a structure that encourages them to become the best versions of themselves—on and off the field.”
