This week, CAA is extremely pleased and excited to welcome Desert Garden Montessori in their first season participating in organized sports!!!! While the School began in 1996, this is their first season joining the CAA! To celebrate, we’d like to let you know more about them:
Located in Phoenix, 5130 Warner Rd, “Desert Garden Montessori’s mission is to create an environment for children in which they are encouraged to explore, create, learn, socialize, and celebrate their unique talents. Their expanded campus serves children, from ages 6 weeks to 18 years. They also offer programs including art, music, theater, Spanish, organic gardening and an organic kitchen, all of which are extremely important areas in offering a child a well-rounded education.” Here is the first of two of their great coaches:
CAA Spotlight: Coach Stephanie Jones
Which sports do you coach and how long have you been coaching?
I played all sorts of sports growing up, but I was drawn to soccer immediately. That was the sport I had the most fun with. Even though this is my first year coaching Flag Football, I’ve gained many years of coaching experience from Soccer, Volleyball, and Spartan.
Which athlete inspired you growing up?
The athletes that inspired me were my coaches and my parents. My mother was my very first coach. She taught me how to have fun on the field. My father would bring me to the park when I was younger and kick the ball around. We would take turns shooting on each other. A handful of incredible soccer coaches also helped me become the person I am today. Not only during practice but before and after training they were always open to assisting me with every need. They challenged and encouraged me to dig deep and never give up.
What are you looking forward to this season?
I’m looking forward to incorporating competition into our small, independent Montessori school. A goal I have for the athletes is to combine the energy, knowledge and skill set of one sport and transition those skills for all sports.
How do you see your team performing this season?
I see our team rising, especially when they feel the pressure to perform. Camaraderie and tenacity will be the key to our success.
What growth do you expect from the team this year?
This year we have a very green team, giving us many opportunities for success. Instead of looking for outcomes on the scoreboard, our focus is on our athletes coming together as one. Using our foundation of determination and respect will help both the athletes and our community grow together.
What’s the best piece of advice you can give your athletes?
Trust yourself, and trust your team. Have integrity. The team will notice your passion and rise to meet it.
Along with coaching, Coach Jones is also the Art Lead Teacher-MYHS Music/Physical Education Lead Teacher-Specials. Her next High School Flag Football games are a double-header on Mon. Sept. 23rd at 4 and 5 pm against Skyline-Gila River, 255 East Riggs Road, Chandler, AZ, USA – Gila River Field We hope that all of you will give Coach Jones and the Desert Garden Gila Monsters your support and a big welcome to the CAA!!!!!