Coach Billmayer's Coaching Philosophy:

I believe that soccer is much more than just learning the skills, techniques, and strategies of winning or losing the game. The sport of soccer offers much more. The development of self-discipline, character, integrity, and the awareness that cooperation and teamwork are essential in life, goes far beyond the game. My desire is that all of my players learn these life lessons.
I want to win as much as any coach, player, or parent does, but I will not sacrifice the well being of my players, or my personal integrity to do so.

I am passionate about the game of soccer and wish to instill the same feeling in those on my team. I will always act in the best interest of my players and team. I always strive to look at the whole picture and make sure the outcome is best for everyone, as any good CEO, president, or administrator must do.

An important aspect in any cohesive team is communication. Parents wanting to be a part of the team, must be willing to communicate with me. Assuming we all know what each other is thinking can be destructive and unproductive. I also stress this to players, giving them the understanding that at times my answers my not always be what they wanted to hear. My hope is that everyone who participates in this program will have a positive experience and will have grown from it.

I give 100% to my players during practices and games and expect that they do the same in return. Once a game has begun, the decisions of the players will largely determine the outcome. Their attitudes, training, and willingness to work are essential to our success. Training includes the responsibility of being able to make smart decisions that carry to the game.

I believe that each player is made-up of four sides - physical, mental, emotional, and spiritual. When each part is balanced, they will be able to strongly stand. Within my program, I intend to develop the physical -- through daily training sessions; mental -- through their decision making on the field; emotional -- in attempting to create a positive and competitive atmosphere; spiritual -- through fostering a sense of team and camaraderie.

Stefan Billmayer
Varsity Coach
706.543.0089 (h)
706.614.4853 (c)
sbillmayer@athensacademy.org

Matt Payne
770.634.9115
Junior Varsity Coach

Team Requirements

1. Be on time to practice -- Be ready to play at the beginning of practice with shinguards, shoes, and socks on. Being a school team, academics are our main priority, therefore our training time will not infringe on tutorial time. Attendance at training sessions and games is mandatory. Obviously illness and medical appointments are reasonable reasons to miss, but soccer should be your priority during our season. If conflicts arise which would cause you to miss mandatory events (e.g. training or matches) these should be discussed with the coaching staff in advance of the conflict. This will avoid any miscommunications and interventions that could affect playing time and team membership status. If you are in doubt please ask me!

*Please note that we play varsity matches during the early days of the school’s
spring break. Be on time to games -- I require all players to be at the field one hour
before game time. Do not expect to start the game if you are late.

2. Equipment - I would request that these be mandatory items every day for the comfort and safety of the players. In case of inclement weather, we will try to train indoors. It is also very cold, especially early in the season, so a warm-up or sweatshirt is mandatory. All varsity and junior varsity players will be issued a warm up which can be used for games and training.

•Soccer Cleats
•Shin guards (players will not be allowed to practice without them)
•Soccer socks (they must cover the shin guards)
•Shorts and White Shirt
•Sweatshirt or warm-up top
•Water bottle
•Tennis shoes or soccer flats (we need to be able to train indoors)

3. No jewelry (watches) of any kind is to be worn to practice or games. Leave it at home or put it in your soccer bag.

4. Uniforms -- All uniforms and equipment issued to player(s) are property of Athens Academy. Players are responsible for returning all equipment or uniforms at the end of the season. Any exceptions will be communicated to players and parents.

5. Drugs, alcohol, and tobacco policies are consistent with Athens Academy.

6. Parents are asked to pick up their player as promptly upon the return of away games and practice.

7. Parents are asked to support their player(s) by attending games and parent meetings. Providing a model of good sportsmanship at games is expected. Please, be kind to officials. Referees will never change a call once they make it, and badgering from the stands will only ensure a biased decision with the next infraction. Fans can positively or negatively control the mood of the game.

8. If players will be leaving with their parents at away games, please notify the coaching staff directly. The coaching staff must speak directly with the parent or have written notification prior to the game. At no time is a player allowed to leave with another student or player to or from “away” games.

9. Every player must have a valid physical and parental release form turned in and on file at the school in order to practice or play. Also, the signed cover sheet of this packet indicates that you have read this information and must be returned to the coach in order to practice or play.

Player Expectations

As a member of the Athens Academy soccer team, your conduct on and off the field should be above reproach at all times. Remember, you always represent the school and your peers no matter where you are.

Soccer is a team sport. You must believe in the concept of team. Never criticize teammates; rather encourage them.

Pride is encouraged. Be a fierce and aggressive competitor, but not a dirty player. Be sure of yourself and your abilities, but be humble about them. Never expect favors, make excuses, or give alibis. Learn to accept criticism and defeat. Analyze your weaknesses and mistakes, and work toward improvement. Remember, a mistake is no longer a mistake once you have learned something from it.

Talking rudely, arguing with coaches, game officials, or other players will not be tolerated. Guard your tongue. Swearing or crude behavior is a reflection of poor character. People sometimes forget who won or lost, but they never forget someone’s character.

Use of profanity during a game is a red card offense.

Attitude is everything!! I can’t stress enough how important your attitude is to your mental health and the team’s success. When you start to think of yourself and/or others in a negative manner, it shows in your performance and behavior. Always picture yourself as being successful and doing the very best you can. This single common thought will ensure a successful season. Remember, negative thoughts can bring the team down. This is one area where you are on your own.