Awards

Riley resides in Tacoma and has been coaching with Cascade for the past 4 years. When he began coaching for Cascade in June 2021, he quickly became a favorite of the club, families, and players. Riley is currently the head coach for three Cascade teams: CFC Boys 2013 Green team, CFC Boys 2016 Green team and CFC Boys 2017 Green team. Riley is also working toward his US Soccer C license to continue his coaching education. He really cares about the players and models positive behaviors that the players will be able to use later in life. SnVYSA staff and families are very lucky to have a coach like Riley who gives his full focus and attention to his players and teams.

Nominator Comments:

Riley models strong morals and values to his players, if he makes a mistake he apologizes instantly and this is important to model to young players because they learn that they can recover from their mistakes.
There is never any blame on Riley's team, the players know that everyone does their best, and not one person is responsible for a goal on them, and when they succeed, the whole team has earned it, not just one player.
Coach Riley has, on numerous occasions, encouraged EIGHT year olds (not easy!) to show good sportsmanship, both during practice and during games. He has found ways to relate to these boys and show them that even if we didn't get a call, or a call went the wrong way, that we still play hard and move forward. And in cases where it meant the difference in the outcome of a game, he consistently shows that we leave with heads held high and he helps them focus on the things we got right as a team. He quickly shows the team that we move on and stay positive ... modeling excellent behavior for the boys.
Riley also has the difficult job of encouraging parents to show the same good sportsmanship, and I have seen him do it both softly and *directly* when needed.
Riley worked magic with a new team this year and between their first and second tournament this summer he created practices that focused on positioning, passing, and working as a team on the field instead of individual players.
Coach Riley was brand new to our team this year, he took time from the very beginning of this season to get to know each player with the help of their parents. He really listened to us, and we have seen tremendous growth with our son in these few months since Riley has been his coach. We truly believe our son would not have made as much progress had Riley not understood our son's strengths and challenges, and he quickly zeroed in on developing our son's self-confidence, which has made a huge difference in how he plays.
Riley encourages players to think for themselves on the field (can we scan? control! we need an outlet!) and he is endlessly enthusiastic, matching the energy of the team.
Riley finds many opportunities during practices to scrimmage with other CFC teams (older, younger, boys, girls) and this has helped build our team's confidence when playing unfamiliar teams ... I have noticed a huge difference in how aggressive they start league games after Riley had us scrimmaging regularly.
Something my son (and his parents) really like about how Riley coaches is the way he connects and understands each of the players on his team. We get detailed texts after most games with his reflections on what our son did well and what he can work on.
Riley has stressed repeatedly that while winning is nice, it's not the GOAL. The goal is to develop these kids and show them how successful they can be when they work together. This is valuable even beyond soccer!
Kids this age are naturally competitive (who can brush their teeth faster? get to the table the fastest?) and so by Riley focusing on both individual and team development, good things are bound to happen on the competitive side.
Riley has been working on his US Soccer C License, and I think that speaks volumes to show he not only wants our kids to learn, but he himself wants to continue learning and growing.
Riley coaches several teams within CFC, and gives his full attention to each team at practices and at games.
Riley encourages our team to watch other teams play and to cheer and support them, especially at tournaments and when our kids arrive early to practices. Also depending on the evening, Riley will sometimes allow early-to-practice-arrivers to jump in and play with the team finishing up (usually a scrimmage) - I think this really helps build the CFC community and encourages kids to support each other (and support soccer!) in a fun and positive way.
We are eternally grateful for the profound impact Riley has had on our son in just a few months. When our son does something he is proud of at school, he always comments that he "has to tell Riley." He is teaching our son not only how to be a great soccer player, but a good human in general. Thank you Coach Riley!
Coach Riley strikes me as a coach who keeps his head down and does fantastic work with the kids. I've seen him handle tricky personalities on our team with ease, and then quickly return the focus to soccer and positive play.

Grayson (Coach G) resides in North Bend and has been coaching youth sports for three(3) years including Snoqualmie Valley Youth Soccer Association (1 year), Snoqualmie Valley Little League (3 years), and flag football (1 year). Coach G also competes in Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu representing Renzo Gracie Snoqualmie and earned 2024 Top Ranked Athlete with Liberty Events & Promotions as well as Top 5 Vicious Submission at The Revolution 52 (Liberty Events). His philosophy towards coaching is teaching life skills through sports and before every practice and every game he has his athletes recite Coach G’s Promise: “I promise to play with sportsmanship, fair play, and honor, and win or lose, to always do my best”. SnVYSA is fortunate to have a volunteer coach like Grayson who is a positive role model for youth in sports and teaches valuable life lessons that kids can use throughout their life.

Nominator Comments:

The boys learning sportsmanship is this season was one of coach G's top priorities. He created a team promise that the boys memorized and said to each other at each practice. "I promise to play with sportsmanship, fair play and honor and win or lose to always do my best."
Coach Court has all his players repeat a promise before each game, pledging sportsmanship and fair play. Once, during a game, one player was frustrated by something a teammate did and yelled at him. Coach Court immediately took the frustrated player aside and addressed the issue, including the importance of treating teammates with respect.
Coach G does fun and creative drills that keep the kids engaged and learning. His main focus though is teamwork, sportsmanship, and respect. He calls out great teamwork when he sees it and rewards good sportsmanship with fun games.
Our son's skills and work ethic have both improved this season. He is excited to go to practice and feels like a part of something bigger than just himself.
Coach G makes sure all players get equal time and encourages teamwork, showing no favoritism to star players and making sure every player has a chance to be involved.
His practices are well planned, and they combine teaching and fun. My son has improved over the course of the season, as have so many other players on the team.
Coach G practices what he preaches and if he messes up or does something he tells the kids not to do he gives himself his own consequences, like doing push-ups.
His philosophy is helping the kids practice teamwork and respect and sportsmanship while having fun and being goofy. He also has great communication with the parents.
Coach G seems to care most about his players' character. He treats every kid with kindness and respect. The kids really feel like they matter to him and to the team. They work hard, and they have fun.
Teaching sportsmanship and what it means to be part of a team seem to be his top priorities. He has been such a positive influence on our son, and we could not have asked for a better coach this season.
We have been blown away by his dedication and approach to coach. We are so thankful for SnVYSA and coach Grayson.
Coach Court understands that all our kids are there to have fun and learn the game of soccer.
He is a leader amongst kids and parents! On multiple occasions, I've observed him reminding parents that they should not be providing verbal feedback to the referee during the game.
Coach G talks to the kids at the end of every practice about where he saw good examples of leadership, teamwork, sportsmanship etc.
He reinforces healthy social emotional skills. When a kid is having a hard time he pulls the kid aside, gets on his knee to eye level and identifies what's going on with the child. Half the time it has nothing to do with soccer or the game but life off the field.
The kids really respect Coach G and really talk to him.
Coach Grayson is always so respectful of the referees and encourages the parents, spectators and his players to be too.
He cares about each of his players as people, that is very evident.
Coach Court completes reviews for referees to help them improve.

Shane resides in Tacoma with his partner and new baby. Shane has been coaching with Cascade FC for the past 9 years and has his UEFA B and USSF C licenses. He is the head coach for four Cascade FC teams: CFC Girls 2008 Green team, CFC Girls 2009 Green team, CFC Girls 2015 Green team, and the CFC Girls 2017 Green team. Additionally, Shane is in his second year as the club’s Technical Director for ages U8-U12, including programs such as Jr. Academy and Jr. RCL. Shane sets a great example for his players with his positive coaching style and has a unique ability to take his knowledge of the game and explain it to young players. He is patient, kind, and fun. SnVYSA staff and families are fortunate to have Shane as a long-standing and highly respected coach for Cascade FC.

Nominator Comments:

Shane is incredibly kind to the girls on the team and sets the expectation for his players to be kind with his own actions.
Shane has made it clear that this is a development year for our young team. You can tell that he is very focused on instructing the team and individuals throughout practice and games.
He has a way of being corrective, kind, fun and silly all at the same time and the girls respond to it so incredibly well.
He has built a wonderful rapport with the girls and we've seen a lot of growth in their game in a very short amount of time.
Getting, and keeping, the attention of a herd of U8 girls is no easy task. Shane has earned their respect, and he also has loads of patience with them when they're not being the best listeners.
This season has been particularly challenging over the last month for Cascade FC and Shane has stepped up to help lead other teams that needed leadership during this difficult time.
This is our first year with Cascade FC and I am so thankful Shane is our daughter's coach. He has a really deep knowledge of the game and is so good at explaining things in a way that our young team can understand.
He makes it fun for the girls and they are learning SO much. We are very thankful for Shane.

Matt McSpirit lives in Duvall and has been since 2013. Matt grew up in England and has been playing soccer since he can remember, representing elementary, middle school, high school, club, and college/university. Since moving to the United States in 2012, Matt has continued to play both indoor, GSSL and more. In 2022, Matt started coaching his eldest daughter's Duvall Girls 2015 (U8) team and loved every minute of it. After the 2022 recreational season, Matt’s daughters began playing for Cascade FC. Matt wanted to continue coaching so he obtained the grassroots 4v4 and 7v7 licenses and has been coaching the Duvall Girls 2015 team through U10. Matt enjoys helping the girls embrace soccer, grasp the fundamentals, build their confidence, skills, and abilities, all while having fun. Matt said as a dad of two young girls, he wants to continue to grow the game, especially at the grassroots level. Matt has also enjoyed partnering with fellow coach and friend, Moe Henry, who brings enthusiasm, passion, patience, and perspective to every practice and game and has made the whole journey even more memorable. SnVYSA is lucky to have a volunteer coach like Matt who desires to continue to coach year after year and share his love for the game and his knowledge with the girls so they can continue to develop their skills and enjoy playing soccer

Nominator Comments:

Matt is a true advocate for sportsmanship, instilling in his players the importance of respect, integrity, and fair play. He consistently emphasizes that winning is only one part of the game, and that how you conduct yourself on and off the field is what truly matters.
Matt leads by example, encouraging his team to respect opponents, officials, and each other, regardless of the game’s outcome.
He actively teaches players how to handle both victory and defeat with grace, ensuring that they learn valuable life lessons through soccer.
Matt has had a remarkable impact on our youth girls’ soccer team by focusing on both player development and team cohesion. He creates an environment where every player feels encouraged and motivated to reach their full potential.
His practices emphasize core skills like ball control, passing, and positioning, while also promoting creativity and confidence on the field.
More than just a coach, he serves as a mentor, teaching the importance of hard work, discipline, and sportsmanship, all while having fun.
Matt (and assistant coach, Moe) go beyond technical training, helping players understand the value of teamwork and effective communication.
He takes the time to connect with each player, identifying their strengths and areas for improvement, and tailoring his coaching to help them grow.
His dedication has resulted in tremendous growth for all players, instilling a deep love for the game and building their confidence both on and off the field.
Matt’s coaching philosophy centers on developing well-rounded players who excel both on and off the field. He believes that success comes not only from mastering technical skills but also from building character, resilience, and teamwork.
His practices are structured to challenge players while providing a supportive environment that encourages risk-taking, creativity, and learning from mistakes.
Matt’s leadership style is rooted in positivity and empowerment, he consistently motivates his team to strive for excellence while maintaining a strong sense of camaraderie and mutual respect.
Matt’s influence extends far beyond his own team, as he is deeply committed to the growth and development of soccer within the broader community and he is a priceless piece in training the next wave of advanced athletes in the valley.
He has created an excellent "feeder" system for athletes wanting to play soccer at a more advanced level. He also has a very nigh soccer IQ.
Endless positivity regardless of wins or losses. The type of soccer coach that these girls will remember with overwhelming positivity 20 years from now.
An excellent teacher who cares about all players at all levels. Our family feels fortunate to have Matt as a coach.
Matt does a lot to ensure that sportsmanship is always a top consideration for all the players. He ensures players respect one another, the referee, and the other team - he does so pragmatically, and has a good way of offering different viewpoints that help players gain perspective.
Matt invests a lot of time and energy into developing players. Despite his own soccer skills, he has shared with me the training he has done to be more skilled as a coach, and how he works with his team members to build upon their skills year after year. I think his skills are immediately clear when you consider his taking his team to the championship last year.
Matt has received some certifications, and regularly looks up You tube videos to learn new approaches and drills. In my own observations, I've seen that he creates an environment that encourages players to hone their skills and continuously improve - whether they are looking to join Cascade eventually, or if they want to continue with Recreational.
He's taken team members who are new to soccer and helped them grow a passion for the game.
While he's focused on the game and building skills, he also brings lighthearted fun that is still focused on player development.
Matt is a "Hub" - whether it's encouraging others to volunteer as coach, recruiting players into the recreational league, encouraging players to try out for Cascade FC, he "shows up" in many ways.
On his daughter's team, he plays an active role in assisting the coaches where needed and has made both the teams he's coaching and other teams stronger - both in skill and in positive attitude.
I had the pleasure of co-coaching with Matt two years ago. We were coaching our daughters on the U8 team and when the season wrapped up, we thought we agreed to coach together again - until both our daughters tried out for Cascade FC and made the team. In my case, I was lucky that my son would be starting recreational later that fall so I could continue to coach. Matt, however, would have both his daughters playing for Cascade. Despite this, Matt still decided to volunteer and coach the same recreational team last season, and again this season.
Matt brings a lot to coaching, and the community: he encourages others to join the adult pickup game on Sundays, is very present and involved in the league and its events, and is welcoming to so many.

Beth lives in Snoqualmie near Jeanne Hansen Park with her husband Chris and kids Eleanor (8) and Luke (6). This is Beth’s fourth year coaching with SnVYSA, the first two years as an assistant coach and the last two years as a head coach. Beth has coached both her daughter’s and son’s teams over the years. Beth grew up playing soccer and continued playing in college at Gonzaga University and then after college played for the semi-pro lady Seattle Sounders and several other teams. Beth feels incredibly blessed to be able to share her passion for soccer with the new generation. She says it is a joy to coach as the players and their families are truly amazing and she has built friendships for life. Her favorite moments are when current or former players see her at school or at the grocery store and they yell “Coach Beth” and she gets a big hug. She knows how truly special it is to be part of their lives and hopefully make a positive impact. SnVYSA is very fortunate to have returning coaches like Beth that not only love the game but love sharing and teaching their passion for soccer.

Nominator's Comments:

Beth is always positive and encouraging to all players on the field.
Beth focuses on teamwork and cheering each other on.
She is an active icon in the community. Beth is always bringing groups together to hike, bike and be healthy!
Beth is a leader with her actions and words. She makes soccer and exercise a priority in her life and passes that on to her players.
She makes sure the kids are having fun and come back each day, which is a huge part of the sport at this age!
Coach Beth has been my daughter’s coach for several years now and has helped her learn to love soccer.
Beth is relentlessly positive and creates a fun, happy, easy environment for the kids to learn soccer.
She keeps the kids engaged and having fun, while also teaching soccer skills and game techniques.
Beth is always smiling and it's infectious with the team.
She has been an outstanding role model for my daughter and I am happy she's been integral in our soccer journey! Last night my daughter said, "I don't know if I want to play soccer without Coach Beth"!

Andie resides in North Bend with her parents and sister and is a sophomore at Mount Si High School. Andie has been playing soccer with SnVYSA for the past 12 years and continues to love the game not just as a player but as a referee. This is Andie’s fourth year as a grassroots referee, and she has developed into a very confident, reliable, and well-respected referee. Andie enjoys watching players grow in skill and sportsmanship year to year and it makes her feel good to know that she is contributing to keeping the game fair and fun for everyone involved. SnVYSA is very thankful to have a returning referee like Andie who not only enjoys refereeing and giving back to the community but who also is a positive influence on younger players.

Nominator's Comments:

Andie is an outstanding referee who consistently demonstrates exceptional judgment, integrity, and professionalism on the field.
She is highly respected for her ability to manage the game with fairness, maintain control in high-pressure situations, and communicate effectively with players, coaches, and fellow referees.
She has a deep understanding of the rules, combined with her calm demeanor, and ensures a smooth and enjoyable experience for all involved.
Andie is a role model of sportsmanship and dedication, setting a high standard for others to follow.
She is very professional, assertive, confident and fair.
Andie exudes a level of poise and assurance that comes from her deep love for the game and dedication to her role.
Andie has developed the ability to manage players and make crucial decisions with clarity and confidence.
Her passion for soccer shines through in every match she officiates, and she has earned the respect of players, coaches, and her fellow referees alike.
Andie handles each game with professionalism and enthusiasm, setting a strong example for others.
Andie is dedicated, confident, and passionate about the game.
Andie consistently meets and exceeds the criteria for being an excellent referee. She demonstrates a deep understanding of the rules of the game and applies them consistently and fairly in every match.
Andie is confident and because of this confidence, she makes quick, clear decisions under pressure.
Andie takes her job seriously and wants to teach others how to improve.
Andie spends time explaining a call to players when indicated.
Andie has encouraged friends to join her and become referees.

Liam resides in Duvall with his parents and brother and is a freshman at Cedarcrest High School. Liam played soccer for SnVYSA for 9 years and decided this past year to focus on travel baseball. This is Liam’s second year as a grassroots referee, and he has developed into a very reliable and confident referee. SnVYSA is very fortunate to have Liam as a returning referee. His knowledge, reliability, confidence, and communication on the pitch has made him a very positive and well-respected referee for the valley.

Nominator's Comments:

Referee Liam is a great example of moral and ethical behavior on the field.
He treats coaches, players, and spectators with respect, making sure everyone feels heard and valued.
Even though he is young, he carries himself confidently, using his whistle and voice effectively when needed.
He is great with hand signals and keeps his positioning on the field clear, so everyone knows what's going on during the game.
Liam pays close attention to everything happening on the field, which helps him make fair and decisive calls.
He communicates openly with everyone, explaining his decisions in a respectful way. This not only helps maintain a good atmosphere during games but also earns him a lot of respect from the teams and fans.
Liam shows that being a referee is about more than just making calls; it is about building a positive environment for everyone involved.
We are thankful for all referees, but especially Liam as he is a great and fair referee.

Harper resides in North Bend with her parents and little sister Emilia and is a sixth grader at Twin Falls Middle School. Harper started playing soccer when she was three years old and has grown into a strong player, contributor, and leader. She currently plays center mid for the top 2013 girls’ team at Eastside FC. She has been voted 3x captain by her teammates. Harper really enjoyed being an Apprentice Referee for SnVYSA this season because it gave her the opportunity to watch the little kids play soccer. Her favorite part of refereeing was watching the kids celebrate goals. Harper said her favorite moment was when a kid scored a goal and ran up to her and said, “I’m so happy I did that. That was my first goal.” SnVYSA is thankful to have young girls like Harper who not only love playing the game of soccer but also enjoy learning the game from a different perspective as a youth referee. We look forward to having Harper back on the pitch next season as an Apprentice Referee and we are thrilled that Harper can’t wait to referee again next season.

Nominator's Comments:

Harper refereed most of our games and she was great! She was on time, always professional and kind, communicated well with the coaches before, during and after the game.
She was decisive and consistent throughout the match.
She was very professional in her demeanor and respect for the game, the coaches, the players and parents.
Harper was an excellent Apprentice Referee that always worked with my team to ensure they knew the rules and kept them safe.
She worked really well with the kids and communicated well with the coaches.
Keep up the great work and we hope to see you again next year.

Spencer resides in Carnation with his parents and is a fifth grader at Carnation Elementary. Spencer has played soccer with SnVYSA for the last two years. Spencer is very social and loves to teach and help people, especially younger kids. He has really enjoyed the opportunity to learn a new skill as an Apprentice Referee, see the sport from a different perspective, and earn some spending money. SnVYSA is thankful to have a young referee like Spencer who has the confidence and desire to learn a new skill and contribute to their community. We look forward to having Spencer back on the pitch as a player and referee next season.

Nominator's Comments:

Spencer was very professional and always on time.
He worked hard to make the right calls. He was fair and took the time to teach our kids how to do a proper throw in when they picked up their back foot.
He was knowledgeable and nice to the kids! We really enjoyed having him!
Spencer was always eager to referee. He would greet people and then get down to business with equipment checks.
He would explain his calls. And what really stood out was that he took the time to demonstrate the right thing for the kids.
While some referees might have lapses where they wait around while the kids spiral into confusion, Spencer always knew just how to guide them and keep things going smoothly.
He is so awesome. I can't believe he is in 5th grade! He took his job so seriously and did a great job.
What a role model. And that he attends the same school as the kids he referees for. Wow!

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