More Than a Game: How Three Mentors Shaped My Life
When we talk about mentorship at Kinship, we often focus on the future—the impact we can have on a young person’s life today. But lately, I’ve been looking back. I’ve been thinking about the individuals who stood by me, believed in me, and shaped the person I am today.
While I have been blessed with mentors in my church, my school, and my professional life, much of my foundation was built on the soccer field. I want to share the stories of three men who taught me that mentorship isn’t just about teaching a skill; it’s about opening doors and believing in someone until they learn to believe in themselves.
John Saycocie: The Foundation
John was my first traveling soccer coach, beginning when I was just 10 years old. For seven years, he didn’t just teach me the “right way” to play the game; he invited me into a community. He encouraged me to take up refereeing—a craft he was learning at the same time—which sparked a passion that has stayed with me for over 25 years.
Over time, John became much more than a coach. He became a family friend and a trusted mentor. By becoming close with his family and his son, Brian, I learned that a great mentor doesn’t just show up for the scheduled hour; they integrate you into their lives.
Glenn Beggin: Joy and Character
As I moved into high school, Glenn Beggin took the baton. Glenn was the father of one of my coaches, and he pushed my understanding of soccer to the next level. He did something few others did: he gave me opportunities to play in adult leagues alongside men I looked up to.
Glenn taught me that the tactics required to win on the field—discipline, strategy, and resilience—are the same traits required to succeed in life. Most importantly, he shared his undying love for the game. He taught me how to find joy in the pursuit, regardless of whether the scoreboard showed a win or a loss.
Florin Marton: Wisdom and Respect
By the time I reached my junior year at Salem International University, I met Florin Marton. Florin was a tough coach—the kind of leader who demanded excellence. While many struggled under his intensity, I thrived.
Florin looked past my diminutive size and saw my heart and my skill. He trusted me on the field, and in return, I learned the invaluable lesson of listening to those with more experience and wisdom. He provided a “home away from home” when I needed it most. He even created the “Utmost Respect Award” for my brother and me—a gesture that validated my effort in a way I’ll never forget.
The Common Thread: Belief
Looking back at John, Glenn, and Florin, the consistent theme wasn’t just soccer. It was belief. They believed in me when I was a kid just starting out, when I was a teenager finding my character, and when I was a young man trying to prove myself in college. They gave me opportunities to grow, and when I failed, they didn’t take those opportunities away—they encouraged me to try again.
I am who I am today because these men chose to invest their time in me.
Who is your John, Glenn, or Florin?
As you read this, I want to invite you to pause and think: Who were the mentors in your life? Who was the person who gave you a chance, taught you a trade, or simply told you that you had what it takes?
Mentorship happens in many forms—sometimes through formal programs, and sometimes naturally through sports, work, or neighborhood connections. But for many youth in the Park Rapids area, those natural connections haven’t happened yet. They are waiting for their “coach”—someone to believe in them and show them the “right way” to navigate the world.
If you have been impacted by a mentor, I invite you to pay that gift forward. You don’t need to be a professional coach or an expert; you just need to be willing to show up and believe in a young person.
Will you join us?
Click here to learn more about becoming a mentor with Kinship.