Coaching and Player Values

July 1, 2024

Coaching and Player Values

At Arkansas Rising, we promote healthy competition within our coaches, players, and teams.  Every day we ask that everyone involved in our programs compete.  Ultimately, we want our players and staff to compete against themselves each day to drive their performances. Ask yourself, am I a better version of myself today than I was yesterday?  Our teammates and coaches all want to push each other to be the best possible versions of themselves.  When you are at your best, I have to be at my best.  When we are all at our best, we will be the ultimate challenge to beat.  While we do want to win everything that we do, we understand that winning is a byproduct of multiple factors- some that are in our control and others that are not.  We choose to focus on the process of competing and letting the results come as a byproduct of our efforts.  To break these values down into a single word - Competition.  Each week, Arkansas Rising tries to focus on one player value and two coaching values.  For example, this week we are focusing on the following values:


Coaching Value 1: Develop to Perform - Rising staff train, inspire, and develop players in all facets to perform and excel every time they step on the field.

Player Value: - Play, train, perform - Rising players enjoy training, playing and performing with their teammates and coaching staff every time they step on the field.

Coaching Value 2: - Here to Create - Rising staff are here to create and instill a “winning” and competitive mentality no matter what situation presents itself.  Players play hard, smart, and fair.  While we always seek to win, it does not come at all costs.


Brandon Hom

Arkansas Rising Boys Director





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Rising to New Heights: Celebrating Four Years of Arkansas Rising Why Did Arkansas United and Real Arkansas Decide to Partner? When Arkansas United and Real Arkansas joined forces four years ago, they envisioned something extraordinary: Arkansas Rising. This partnership aimed to create the strongest youth soccer organization in the state, setting a new benchmark for player development. By merging resources, Arkansas Rising offers an unmatched experience for players, tackling geographic challenges and strengthening community bonds. With combined facilities, coaching expertise, and administrative support, Arkansas Rising elevates the level of play. We truly believe we are stronger together. The Meaning Behind the Arkansas Rising Name The name Arkansas Rising isn’t just a title; it’s a testament to our journey. It symbolizes the unity of clubs, families, and players all striving to elevate soccer in Arkansas. Our boards agreed that the best path forward was to merge into a single competitive club, leveraging combined resources and geographical advantages. The name 'Rising' captures our relentless pursuit of higher standards in soccer competition, both within the state and beyond. The Mission of Arkansas Rising At Arkansas Rising, our mission transcends soccer. Our mission is to nurture strong, confident individuals who pursue excellence in every aspect of their lives. Through a progressive player development curriculum, we guide our athletes on their soccer journey, ensuring they grow both on and off the field. Achievements and Future Ambitions As Arkansas Rising steps into its fourth year, we celebrate significant milestones on the competitive side. Our boys' and girls' teams now compete in the prestigious ECNL Regional League (RL) platforms, showcasing our commitment to excellence. Yet, our ambitions soar higher. We aim to rise further, providing our players with top-tier opportunities to grow and succeed. Join us in our journey as we continue to elevate the game of soccer in Arkansas, always striving to reach new heights together. Let's rise, together. Brittany Axford Arkansas Rising Operations Director