Khya Robinson, NJ Youth Soccer
New Jersey Youth Soccer continues its virtual celebration of the 34th Annual NJYS Awards Presented by RWJBarnabas Health today, officially announcing Victor Santillan of Florham Park Youth Soccer Association as the 2021 NJYS Recreation Coach of the Year. As part of his acknowledgement, Santillan participated in an exclusive interview with Gotham FC defender Estelle Johnson.
“It is an honor to be recognized by New Jersey Youth Soccer as the 2021 Recreation Coach of the Year,” said Santillan. “Nothing makes me prouder than to see kids play soccer, not only in the fall, but throughout the year. Seeing kids with smiles on their faces playing this beautiful game of soccer is and has always been the reason why I coach.”
Santillan is an ambassador for soccer in his community, and he is dedicated to growing the game while creating a safe and fun environment for each player. In previous years, recreation soccer ended at third grade in his township, which meant that kids in fourth grade and above had no place to play recreationally. Looking to change that, Santillan set his sights on expanding the space for recreation soccer throughout his community. His hard work has played a critical role in making soccer remain available for hundreds of kids in the surrounding area.
Santillan maintains a philosophy that is committed to fair play and sportsmanship. One of his fondest memories at Florham Park Youth Soccer Association surrounds a player in the program who was experiencing challenges. Looking to do something special for the young player, he organized a moment during a game where the players on both teams would help this child score a goal. There was not a dry eye in the house after everyone saw the sheer joy on the young player’s face as a result.
When it comes to coaching, the main focus of Santillan is to show players how to learn through the love of playing the game, and he is willing to do anything possible to make that happen.
The virtual celebration of the NJYS Awards Presented by RWJBarnabas Health will continue over the coming weeks, with award winners being announced and featured in special video interviews. To find out more information about New Jersey Youth Soccer or to contact us directly, please email communications@njyouthsoccer.com. Also make sure to follow us on social media: @NJYouthSoccer
