STATESBORO, Ga. – For Tormenta FC Academy and Junior Academy Director Kian Brownlee, winning the United Soccer Alliance 2023 Showcase in late February represented much more than winning; it represented unity and inclusion to one of the team’s newest members.
Following the tournament’s conclusion, Marco Bolivar, who moved from New York a few months ago and currently plays for TFC ’14 Boys IBIS SC, was awarded the MVP trophy – a tradition started by Brownlee to recognize and celebrate the outstanding performance of a specific individual who has shown exceptional skill and sportsmanship on the field.
Brownlee says the team names an MVP following each tournament or event to not only recognize the entire team effort but also build a team culture centered around celebrating each other’s successes.
“As a coach, seeing the joy and excitement on my players’ faces when they receive the MVP trophy is priceless. I know that this tradition will continue to inspire and motivate my players to strive for excellence both on and off the field because, at the end of the day, it’s not just about winning the game.”
Kian Brownlee, Tormenta FC Academy and Junior Academy Director
What makes this tradition even more special is that the MVP gets to take the tournament title trophy home for a few days and share the joy with their family and friends. When they return the trophy to the team, they get to select the next player to take it home or nominate the “Player of the Night.”
This not only creates a sense of awareness and honesty in the feedback system but also allows all the kids to share the love and take pride in holding onto the trophy for a few days. It’s a small gesture, but it has a huge impact on the team’s morale and motivation.
Committed to raising the level of soccer locally and across the country, Tormenta FC Academy has programs for ages two to 19. It is the only youth academy in South Georgia and the Lowcountry of South Carolina with a path to the professional ranks. Follow Tormenta FC Academy on Twitter, Facebook, and Instagram for other Academy news and content.
Contact Lily Gibbons for any questions regarding the latest Tormenta FC Academy news or events at lgibbons@tormentafc.com.
