Embedded within the John Jay Soccer C.A.R.E.S. Initiative is our impactful peer mentoring program. This initiative goes beyond honing athletic and soccer skills, striving to cultivate meaningful connections among players, transcending the confines of the field. The Mentorship Program aligns with several key objectives: fostering a supportive and inclusive team environment, promoting holistic personal and athletic development, and upholding a resilient and positive team and program culture. At its core, we emphasize that a true competitor, according to the John Jay Soccer Program, is someone dedicated to self-improvement, elevating teammates, and enhancing the game itself—an individual who gazes through windows, not mirrors.

Why?

In high-performing teams and programs, a shared team culture is crucial, and within the John Jay Soccer Program, we acknowledge the need for a consistent culture. While our Coaching Staff lays the foundation, we recognize that true team ownership enhances excellence. Our mentor program, driven by veteran players, aims to foster stronger bonds, especially among those unfamiliar. By preventing issues like cliques and individual agendas, we aim to fortify team chemistry. Past challenges won't define us; commitment to proactive mentorship ensures a collaborative, caring, and winning team culture. Veteran players play a pivotal role in bridging the Coaching Staff and newcomers, actively promoting inclusivity and integration.

What We Need

• Our veteran players must be 100% on board to serve as mentors who explain to younger players “how this team does things” and what is expected of them as team and program members.

• Both Mentors & Mentees must understand our set of expectations for both parties to fulfill.

• Both Mentors & Mentees must work together and collaborate to create a positive rapport with one another.

• Utilize time afforded during and outside practice for Mentors & Mentees to get together and complete various structured activities as well as time to talk informally.

• Regular Check ins with both Mentors and Mentees from time to time to ensure it is working well and to refresh and appropriately tailor the process to maximize success.

The role of a Mentor is reserved for athletes who have demonstrated exceptional self-management, maturity, and commitment to personal growth. This transition from self-improvement to becoming a leader is a hallmark of impactful players—those who elevate both their teammates and themselves, guided by a continuous respect for the game. While not every veteran player may choose to serve as a Mentor, it's acceptable as not all may meet these high standards. Our peer mentorship program is thoughtfully designed to adapt to each year's unique team dynamics and requirements.

Qualities of a Good Mentor

• Embraces the John Jay coaching philosophy, tactical and technical system of play

• Is a Team Player; puts the team ahead of himself

• Possesses Integrity; will go against peer pressure to do the right thing

• Has a Strong Work Ethic; leads by example

• Embodies a Teachable Spirit; is coachable and hungry to both learn and improve

• Positive Attitude; take the first step to a great mental game with a can-do attitude

Expectations for Mentors

• Keep the Emotional Tank of your mentee filled

• “Pick up” a mentee when he seems down or discouraged

• Demonstrate Model Behavior; what you do is as important as what you say

• Encourage; help Mentees build self-esteem and self-confidence

• Explain and demonstrate to Mentees what is expected of them in practice

• Give them tips about what to expect before big matches/moments

• Talk with them about academic questions they can't answer or don't feel comfortable answering

As a mentor, it's essential to avoid behaviors like dictating or assuming the role of a personal coach for your mentee. Open communication with the Coaching Staff is encouraged, especially if you encounter unfamiliar situations. Mentors need not have all the answers, and it's perfectly acceptable to respond with "I don't know" when faced with questions beyond your expertise or comfort. Establishing clear communication channels with the Coaching Staff is vital, recognizing that coaches step in where mentor boundaries conclude, particularly in matters of discipline.

The mentor-mentee relationship doesn't dictate playing time or on-field success; it's about fostering team success. It's possible that a mentee surpasses their mentor in these areas, but this doesn't alter the crucial dynamic between them. Our program emphasizes conflict management, communication, and teamwork skills. While these outcomes may not always be immediately recognizable, the goal is to instill a sense of harmonious team membership. Our vision is a program benefiting both mentor and mentee, where mentors develop reasoning skills, stronger team connections, increased self-esteem, empathy, conflict resolution, and organizational skills. Simultaneously, mentees experience improved academic achievement, heightened self-efficacy, better social skills, reduced behavioral issues, and lower engagement in risky behaviors. As our athletes embrace mentorship and leadership roles, we anticipate the flourishing of our team and program.