Join Chat By The Pitch for an inspiring conversation with Kean Barclay, Head Women’s Soccer Coach at Columbia State Community College and Director of Coaching at Clarksville Soccer Club. From playing in Fayetteville, Arkansas, to coaching internationally in Ireland, Bolivia, and Scotland, Kean’s journey has shaped a coaching philosophy built on resilience, culture, and player growth. We explore building strong team culture, the unique role of junior colleges in player development, and balancing coaching with parenting. Kean also reflects on lessons from his podcast, Down the Tunnel. Packed with insights for coaches, parents, and players alike, this episode is a must-listen for anyone passionate about the game.

Key Talking Points

• How Kean’s global soccer experiences shaped his coaching philosophy

• The role of junior colleges in recruiting and preparing players for four-year schools

• Strategies for building a positive team culture and managing parent influence in youth sports

• Balancing the demands of coaching with parenting while fostering player accountability

Tune In to Learn

How Kean mentors players to grow as athletes and people, with a focus on resilience and strong team culture.

Quotes from Kean Barclay

• “I love the connections, I like the relationships. Whether I’m coaching at the number one Division I school or a Division III community college, it’s about helping players grow.”

• “Failure shouldn’t be a word you feel uncomfortable hearing—it’s about what you do after.”

• “Every individual’s role is crucial in pushing, evolving, and maintaining team culture.”

• “Dissension loves company. Negative influences can spread quickly, especially in youth soccer.”

• “I ask my kids, ‘Did you have fun?’ That’s the main question after a game.”

• “It’s about building accountability in players, whether in college or club soccer.”

• “The familial influence is different in club versus college—it’s more direct in youth sports.”

• “I want players to find a school that fits their personality, not just their soccer goals.”

• “Coaching at a junior college means recruiting players in and recruiting them out.”

• “Your attitude affects your emotions, and your emotions affect your results.”

Connect with Kean Barclay

• 🎧 Podcast: Down The Tunnel

• 📧 Email: DownTheTunnel@gmail.com

• 🌐 Website: www.columbiastate.edu/athletics

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Mentioned in this episode:

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