The PCA Blog

Spring Valley Athletic Association Partner Profile

01.25.2017


Q: Can you give us a brief history of SVAA?

A: SVAA has been organizing recreational sports in the Richardson Independent School District/North Dallas area since 1968. The sports programs we offer are football, volleyball, basketball, baseball, and softball. We had 8,000 athletes on more than 700 teams participate in 2016. We have 500-plus adult volunteers who give their time and help make our SVAA programs run.

Q: Why does SVAA partner with PCA?

A: We partnered with PCA because of the impact coaches have on players, and we wanted an organization that could communicate the importance of the role of "coach." We have so many volunteers who do not have coaching experience, and we felt PCA could provide the tools and skills involved with coaching while emphasizing life lessons and sportsmanship.

Q: How long have you been a PCA partner, and what groups have you provided workshops for?

A: We started requiring all head coaches to be PCA-certified in 2009. Together we offer workshops three times a year for our in-season sports, which include football (tackle, flag, and touch), volleyball, basketball, baseball and softball.

Q: What has the impact of partnering with PCA been in your organization?

A: Partnering with PCA has been a great decision. The impact of the information that PCA offers to our volunteer coaches has proven to be positive for those coaches and our players. We have seen an increase in positive coach/player relationships and have had fewer complaints regarding bad sportsmanship from officials and parents.

Q: As we work together to change the culture of youth sports in North Texas, what would you tell another youth sports organization about PCA?

A: PCA is a great tool for coaches working with young athletes. PCA will provide your coaches with information they either have forgotten or have not even thought about. It is amazing how one act, positive or negative, can completely transform an athlete. PCA takes heart and pride in making sure the information they provide is the most beneficial for the coach and young athlete. Providing this training for other youth programs will hopefully continue to spread the importance of the role of "coach."