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Coral Gables Youth Soccer Scores New Leadership
For Mark Dougherty, soccer is more than a sport – it is a passion that has been a part of his life since the first time he kicked a ball, through being signed with Major League Soccer. Now, as Coral Gables’ new Director of Coaching for the city’s youth soccer program, his goal is to instill a deep love for the sport in young people.
“Nothing pleases me more than the ability to pass on the knowledge that was so generously shared with me. It’s this exchange that has kept me engaged in the sport far beyond my playing years,” says Dougherty. “With the right balance of direction, encouragement, and skill-building at an early age, anything is possible for a young player.”
Upon being named director in late 2023 to replace the renowned Chris Bart-Williams, who passed in July, 2023, Dougherty had to hit the ground running. Upon his arrival on the job, planning for the spring 2024 semester was already well underway, so there was no time to waste. This included not only oversight of the existing soccer operations, but also expanding the youth soccer program.
“Prior to my coming onboard, the program had been without leadership for several months, so I want to credit the Youth Center staff, especially Carlos Pichardo, Yanessa Rodriguez, and Kat Diaz, and the coaches who were dedicated to keeping it going during that tough period,” Dougherty acknowledges.
“the kids are thoroughly enjoying the program and learning about the importance of team play.”
“Today, we’ve updated our programs and are receiving positive feedback from both parents and kids. Most importantly, these kids are thoroughly enjoying the program and learning a great deal about the sport and the importance of team play.”
Dougherty appreciates the fantastic team working with him. “Many of our parks and recreation team members, even our Community Recreation Director Fred Couceyro, grew up here and have been with the city for years. That makes me the rookie, but it also shows how loyal our staff is and what a positive work environment we have,” he adds.
The program offers two semesters of soccer, one in the spring and one in the fall, and a four-week summer camp. The “Young Stars” program is for youth who prefer to compete within the program, and the “Travel” program is for more competitive youth who are interested in competing against other local clubs.
A Lifelong Goal
Dougherty’s extensive history of achievements made him the top choice for the job. His love of soccer began in California, where he started playing youth soccer in the Police Athletic League. As a goalkeeper, his passion for the game only increased, and by high school, he was competing year-round. During his college days at Fresno State, he was a scholarship recipient and team captain. He still holds the conference record for career shutouts.
In the 1990s, Dougherty’s career saw significant success, including roles as both player and coach in the start-up leagues existing at that time. When the Major League Soccer (MLS) franchise was started, he was the first goalkeeper selected in the inaugural draft by Tampa Bay Mutiny. He later played for the Columbus Crew in Ohio, where he was named the Crew’s Most Valuable Player in 1999. After a knee injury in 2001, Dougherty retired from playing.
He went on to coach at Bowling Green State University for a year before returning to MLS as a coach for the Colorado Rapids. Dougherty ultimately took a hiatus from soccer to be closer to his kids, working for Lockheed Martin in Colorado. His role there involved bringing together a team of rocket scientists, leveraging his leadership and team skills from soccer, to help them work together for United Launch Alliance.
After moving to Miami in 2016 to join his wife, local attorney Jane Muir, Dougherty returned to soccer, coaching privately until tapped for the Coral Gables position. As Director of Coaching, Dougherty oversees the city’s team of soccer coaches and focuses on grassroots and developmental programs.
“We aim to provide a safe, enjoyable learning experience for our youth”
“Our goal is to provide a fun, safe, and enjoyable learning experience for our youth,” says Dougherty. “Soccer teaches young people many skills, both on and off the field, helping them become better individuals through teamwork and participation in sports.”
Reflections on the Field
With players buzzing up and down the fields at the War Memorial Youth Center, Dougherty stands proudly, watching the progress made by the kids and the exceptional guidance provided by the coaches and the City’s Parks and Rec staff.
“Teaching and sharing the game in this community is a privilege I deeply cherish,” Dougherty says. “If your child is not in love with the game by age 12, and lacks technical ability, the game isn’t fun for them. Our goal is to instill a love for soccer, whether it leads to competitive play in youth programs, high school, college, or even the pro leagues, or simply enthusiasm for playing with friends.”
To foster this love, the program emphasizes individual ball work, ensuring each player gets maximum attention for optimal development. “We only have a couple of hours a week to do this, so we work hard at keeping our eye on the ball, so to speak,” Dougherty adds.
Looking to the future, Dougherty sees himself continuing in this role long-term. “I live right here in Coral Gables, just up the street, and I truly love this community. It’s an integral part of our lives.”
ABOUT CORAL GABLES COMMUNITY RECREATION DEPARTMENT
The Community Recreation Department manages the War Memorial Youth Center, the Coral Gables Golf and Country Club, the William H. Kerdyk Biltmore Tennis Center, the Salvadore Tennis Center, the Venetian Pool, the Granada Golf Course, the Adult Activity Center, and all Coral Gables parks and playgrounds. The Department provides a broad range of recreational opportunities for all ages.
Register your child at playgables.com. For additional information, email parks@coralgables.com or contact 305-460-5600.
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