Meet Erin Early | Director of Steamboat Shorty’s (Toddler Soccer Program)

We had the good fortune of connecting with Erin Early and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Erin, what do you attribute your success to?
As a teacher, a coach, and founder of Steamboat Shorty’s, I think the most important factor behind my success is entirely attributed to my belief that I can always be better, I can always learn something new, and maintaining a positive attitude is what drives my success entirely. Shorty’s has definitely evolved over the years and it is because I seek out new ways to teach and coach and I surround myself with others that share my same passion. Lastly, I have the best staff. I use my high school players and former players to help coach in the toddler program. They have such a fantastic energy. The kids love them so much and we keep our numbers small to aid in management and better instruction overall.

Alright, so let’s move onto what keeps you busy professionally?
I’m just a physical education teacher and a soccer coach. There are so many of us out there that teach and coach. I am most proud of the students and players that I get to come into contact with on a daily basis. I am all about connection and it is so special to continue to be a part of so many lives as they make mine richer and more FUN. The fact that I get to meet our community’s soccer players as young as 3, teach some of them through elementary school, and then coach the ones that stick with it in high school makes it the most special part about the job of coaching!

Let’s say your best friend was visiting the area and you wanted to show them the best time ever. Where would you take them? Give us a little itinerary – say it was a week long trip, where would you eat, drink, visit, hang out, etc.
I don’t travel often to Denver, but when I do, I am sure to visit as many breweries and food trucks as I can! When City Park hosts all the food trucks in one place throughout the summer, I feel like I scored!

The Shoutout series is all about recognizing that our success and where we are in life is at least somewhat thanks to the efforts, support, mentorship, love and encouragement of others. So is there someone that you want to dedicate your shoutout to?
First, I would like to thank my husband. He is my best friend and is an incredible support system. We do everything together and he is my first source of encouragement in continuing to better the Shorty’s program over the years. Funny enough, he is also the Technical Director for Steamboat Soccer Club which is the organization that I dedicate my shoutout to. Shorty’s needs a program to feed into, and Steamboat Soccer Club makes it so easy for parents and families to take the next steps in continuing on in a child’s soccer journey. Their mission, vision and values are so much aligned with who I want to be and their support is never-ending! We are one amazing soccer family here in Steamboat, and SSC continues to grow and strengthen that “family” bond.

Website: https://sites.google.com/view/steamboatshortys/home

Instagram: @steamboatshortys

Facebook: Toddler Summer Soccer