Instepper Mentoring Program

Mentoring is a proven teaching model that is typically employed with much success in schools and companies around the world. Mentoring can be equally effectively in soccer.

The Instepper Mentoring Program (IMP) Model

Instepper strongly recommends using the following model:

  • The IMP should be a player-run, player-driven program that provides services to the local soccer community.
    • Mentors use their soccer passion and experience to develop and grow both on- and off-the-field.
    • The more opportunities mentors are given, the more growth they will experience and the better prepared they will be when their soccer careers end.
  • Behind-the-scenes, adults (parents, coaches) provide just the right amount of help and support.
  • Mentors should be high school or college players.
  • Any player, regardless of playing ability, can be a successful mentor.
  • Mentor services/activities should be free or follow a pay-what-you-can (PWYC) model. (top)

IMP Model Types

An IMP can take on many shapes and sizes. For example,

  • An older player offers 1:1 or 1:2 training sessions to help improve the first-touch and other fundamentals.
  • A team wants to raise a lot of money for their season with an Instepper service-oriented FUNdraiser. Services could be 1:1 training sessions, a FUN-filled Instepper Day, or a Community-based activity.
  • A Club/School fully embraces and endorses the IMP and makes it a critical component to its culture and success of its organization. Mentors and the organization work together to provide valuable services that benefit the Club/School, Mentors, and the entire Community. (top)

Paying for the IMP

Mentors may be asking themselves, “If Instepper recommends that IMP services are essentially free, who’s going to pay for my cleats, kits, registration fee, tournaments, etc?” It’s a valid question.

Instepper offers several payment solutions (including 2 FUNdraiser groups)

  • FUNdraiser Groups
    • Reach out to friends/family seeking “investments” in the IMP “Mentor Growth FUNd”.
    • Solicit local business to sponsor in the IMP (and the Club).
  • Get the Club to reduce registration fees and/or sign off on community hours. (top)

IMP Benefits

Everyone in the soccer Community will benefit from an IMP. But the one group that will benefit the most are the Mentors. The skills that mentors will learn, develop, and reinforce as a member of an IMP will serve them extremely well as they:

  • Pursue their soccer dreams.
  • Apply to college.
  • Seek employment. (top)