Tim Buskirk has served as regional commissioner of the American Youth Soccer Organization (AYSO), a soccer club for kids ages 6-19 in Kona, Hawai’i, since 2017. He loves being involved in youth development, not just as athletes, but as upright citizens.
Founded in 1964, AYSO’s mission is to “develop and deliver quality youth soccer programs that promote a fun, family environment.” What sets AYSO apart from other soccer clubs is its commitment to upholding its six core philosophies: balanced teams, positive coaching, open registration, good sportsmanship and player development.
Tim explains, no player is turned away, no matter their skill level. All that is required is a desire to play soccer and learn, while having fun. A focus is placed on developing players individually as well as within a team, because each one is unique and brings a vital contribution through collaboration.
“Soccer teaches children various life skills such as teamwork and how much the level of effort and execution impacts success and failure,” Tim says.
To begin, each soccer player is observed to uncover their natural strengths and the areas where they need growth. All coaches are trained to set youth up for success. Over the years, Tim has witnessed improvements in skill, soccer concepts and confidence within each player. He knows the positive impact of encouragement over time.
When a child accomplishes something they once struggled with, their confidence grows. Whether it’s scoring a goal, making a great pass, stealing the ball, or playing as a team player, they learn that success is measured by effort.
“I’ve seen players who are timid on defense suddenly realize that just slowing an opposing player down is as effective as stealing the ball,” Tim explains. He has also witnessed players with the skill to score choose instead to pass to a teammate, demonstrating maturity and smart decision-making on the field.
Tim knows that the skills learned and developed on the soccer field translate to school and everyday life. That’s why he encourages each player to try their best, always work on improving themselves, and most of all, have fun with whatever they do. He believes these are the foundations of success, on and off the soccer field.
Encouragement is key. “I simply tell them to keep it up, because you’ll never score if you never shoot,” Tim says.
Since its inception in 2004, AYSO Kona has steadily grown, with other clubs forming and branching out from its original teams. AYSO Kona is a non-profit organization run entirely by volunteers. Working together for a common goal brings families together.
“Our coaches, referees, other volunteers and board members are out on the pitch for practices and games because they want to be there,” says Tim.
During his time with AYSO Kona, Tim has been fortunate to develop long-term relationships with the families involved. He has seen aunties, uncles, and even siblings of players contributing. Tim has observed parents who have turned into grandparents return to be involved in their grandchildren’s soccer experience.
“I truly love to hear the sounds of the players laughing, celebrating and their ʻohana cheering,” Tim shares.
Looking ahead, Tim remains optimistic about the future of AYSO Kona. He is convinced that having fun while developing passion in their program needs to be the foundation for future opportunities.
“There are so many wonderful families that do so much for our program both from the sideline and on the field that all I could hope for is continuation on this same path,” Tim says. “I look forward to seeing where we go … everyone's continued trust and support of AYSO Kona is greatly appreciated.”
Learn more at AYSO527.org.
"…you’ll never score if you never shoot." —Tim Buskirk.