Tabari Baker - 11v11 Coach

How did you become involved in soccer and coaching?

I have been interested in soccer and coaching my entire life. I played travel club soccer as a kid. After college, I began coaching AAU basketball, and playing adult soccer in various leagues. I found a love for coaching during this time, and began my coaching journey. Once I moved to North Carolina, I became serious about coaching youth soccer. I enjoy watching kids grow in confidence, leadership, grit, and tenacity in youth sports, and soccer is an approachable way for any kid to gain those skills. I love being a small part of that journey for kids. 

Why you are excited to be part of the new Rush program?

I am a scientist and builder by nature, and the NC Rush club allows me to exercise both! As a scientist, I love the program's focus on quantitative metrics to assess progress. I believe that this is the best way to track growth. As the quote says, "you can't change what you don't track!" As a builder, I enjoy creating new things and watching them become integrated into people's lives. Here at Rush, we get the opportunity to build a supportive, player-focused community that develops lovers of this great sport. I am excited to be a part of that process!

What is one quote that you find valuable, true or inspiring to your approach to life and sport?

One famous quote that I regularly say to others (and myself) is from Kobe Bryant; "The moment you give up, is the moment you let someone else win.''