Timothy Downs - 11v11 Coach

I am the Regional Director of North Carolina Economic Development for Thomas & Hutton

Engineering Company. I am also a licensed attorney in both Ohio and North Carolina. I hold a

bachelor’s degree in Zoology from North Carolina State University and earned my law degree

from Thomas M. Cooley Law School in Lansing, Michigan. My wife and I have adult daughters

and a teenage son. I enjoy time with my family, fishing, hiking, gardening, and golf.

How did you become involved in soccer and coaching?

I played soccer as a kid and have always loved the sport. My youth sports coaching career

began over 25 years ago when I was a teacher at a small school and served as coach for

several middle school and high school sports, including soccer. Coaching soccer became a

passion when my children were old enough to start playing and I’ve been coaching every year

since.

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

I am excited to be a part of Rush because its values align with my coaching philosophy, which is

build the person while you are building the player. I know that most of the players that I will

influence through coaching will not make soccer their career, but they all need life skills. I

believe Rush is the right environment for youth soccer development.

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

“There may be people that have more talent than you, but there’s no excuse for anyone to work harder than you do.” – Derek Jeter.

The one thing we absolutely control in life is our own effort. Your effort will most often determine your outcomes on the field and in life.

Also, Just play. Have fun. Enjoy the game. Some attribute this quote to Michael Jordan, but regardless, if you’re not enjoying the game, you’re in the wrong place.