Ainsley Sowers has served as a Site Lead with our program for the past two seasons, and her leadership has made a tremendous impact across multiple schools in Howard County, Baltimore County, and Baltimore City. Her dedication, organization, and ability to connect with both students and staff have strengthened each site she’s led. We’re grateful for Ainsley’s continued commitment to Let’s Play! and the positive difference she brings to our program every day.
What are you most passionate about?
I am most passionate about medicine and advancing access to healthcare, especially for those in underserved communities.
Why did you join Let’s Play!?
I decided to join Let’s Play! to give back to my community through the sport I love. I was inspired by the opportunity to provide access to resources and community sports programs children may not otherwise be able to participate in.
What have you enjoyed in your experience working with Let’s Play!?
I have most enjoyed developing relationships with the players of Let’s Play!. It makes my day when players come up at the beginning of practice to give me hugs and tell me about their days. Being a mentor for these children has been incredibly rewarding.
What background, education, training, or experiences prepared you for what you are doing now?
I have been coaching soccer since I was in highschool, specifically assisting goalkeeper training at SAC and co-coaching a recreational youth SAC team. In college I volunteered with TOPSoccer where children with disabilities have the opportunity to play soccer together. Since graduating from University of Delaware, I have assisted some SAC coaches with goalkeeper training for youth, girls teams and then began coaching for Let’s Play!.
What’s your vision for the community you serve and how can others contribute/support?
My vision for my community is for children of all backgrounds to have access to sports programs and other resources to increase opportunity for our youth. I think that the best way to support this is by volunteering for various community programs. Additionally, spreading the word about systemic barriers to resources in our community in order for programs to tailor their support helps to improve access to all in our community!
Who were you inspired by as a young player?
Being a goalkeeper, I was inspired by Alyssa Naeher as a child. Watching her tenacity and technical skill encouraged me to train harder and furthered my love for the sport.
What is the best piece of coaching advice you ever received?
The best piece of coaching advice I have received is to make sure that practice is always fun. The players will be encouraged to improve their soccer skills when they’re having fun and enjoying time with friends!
What advice would you give a young player?
My advice to a young player would be to remember that soccer is a team sport! I think that by emphasizing this as a coach we are able to foster valuable life skills like teamwork and communication.
