From Sidelines to Snack Time: What I learned from my European Soccer Coach Dad

That’s my dad on the left.  This photo has lived on my parents’ wall for as long as I can remember—it's more than just a picture, it’s part of our story.

I didn’t just grow up around soccer—I lived and breathed it. My dad was a professional soccer coach in Sweden, leading teams in both the highest and second-highest leagues. He’s been both a head coach and assistant, and was part of the team that won the UEFA European Cup in 1987. He’s also a Swedish Champion (SM-guld)—the top honor in Swedish soccer. The UEFA individual trophy? It lives at my house now, tucked among memories that still feel fresh.

As a kid, I went with him to nearly every field across mid and southern Sweden, tagging along to scout future opponents before big matches. This was the 90s—no iPads, no fancy software. He used a magnetic tactics board to build game plans and VHS tapes to study rival teams. I remember the sound of the tape rewinding, his pen tapping against the table, and me, quietly absorbing it all.

The smell of damp grass and soil after practice still lives in my memory. So does the clack of cleats on asphalt and the way my hands wrapped around a hot cup of coffee on cold days, because there was never tea—and in Sweden, staying warm is half the game. And of course, those Delicato balls—chocolatey Swedish pastries I always looked forward to after long match days.

Now? I’m a soccer mom in Texas with four wild, wonderful boys who live for the game. I've gone from watching elite strategy sessions to packing shin guards, prepping snacks, and cheering from the sidelines with sunblock and water bottles in hand.

But in so many ways, I’m still watching. Still learning. Still loving this game.

What My Dad Taught Me (That Still Shapes My Soccer Mom Life)

1. Keep It Simple

Skill comes from time spent with the ball—not expensive gear or nonstop tournaments. My dad used to say, “Just touch the ball every day.” I remind my boys of this all the time.

2. Let the Game Teach

My dad was an active coach—very active. He was loud when it mattered, passionate,

intense. But he didn’t yell just to be heard. He didn’t coach from the sidelines with ego—he coached with intention. He believed in teaching players to read the game, think for themselves, and trust their instincts. Now that I’m on the sidelines, I try to channel that same spirit. I want to give my boys space to make their own decisions, even if that means biting my tongue when I really want to shout “Shoot!”

3. Fuel Is Everything

We didn’t eat junk after practices. We had home cooked meals, sandwiches, fruits, nuts, and always water. I bring that philosophy to our home—with Scandinavian-inspired snacks that keep my boys moving (without the sugar crash).

4. Respect the Field

From cleaning your cleats to shaking hands with your opponent, respect was everything. That still matters—to me, to them, and to this game we love.

5. Show Up Fully

Whether he was coaching or just watching, my dad was present. No phone. No distraction.

Just the game. I carry that with me. I try to offer my boys the same attention—even when it’s muddy, chaotic, or roasting hot.

Life With Four Boys on the Field

Each of my sons brings something different to the game:

- One's playing for fun and friendship, he plays Football in the school team and loves acting too.

- Two of them eats, sleeps and breath the game. Soccer is everything to them.

- And the youngest? He’s playing Flag Football right now (yes, we are in Texas still).

I’ve learned to let go of expectations and lean into what makes them tick. Sometimes it's about drills and discipline. Sometimes it's about just letting them play with joy.

If they don't have fun, they will loose their passion and their love of the game.

Game Day Mom Hacks (Straight From the Trunk of My Car)

Let’s be real—game day can be messy. Here are a few things that save my sanity:

✅ Keep a trunk bin stocked with:- Extra socks- Bandaids- Bug spray- Wipes- Deodorant wipes (for everyone’s sake)

✅ Use frozen water bottles that double as cooling packs in hot weather.

✅ Pack homemade energy bars or fruit instead of sugary snacks.

✅ Bring a comfy chair (I always stand up at games, that's how I grew up if there aren't any bleachers), sun hat, blanket, and coffee—yes, even in Texas.

✅ Don’t forget a mini ball for the little siblings (or a snack to bribe them with during games).

One More Lesson That Stuck With Me

My dad also taught me one of the most valuable things of all: talent is just a starting point.

He’d point to players like Messi, Ronaldo, Zlatan, and Beckham—not just to admire their skills, but to remind me that none of them got there on talent alone. The one who works the hardest, who shows up every day, who keeps pushing even when no one’s watching—that’s the one who becomes the best. It’s a mindset.

What I Hope My Boys Learn

Soccer isn’t just about scoring goals. It’s about:

- Respect.

- Teamwork.

- Resilience.

- Grit.

- Listening.

- Trying again.

It’s about handling defeat with grace and showing up for your teammates no matter what. I want my sons to grow into men who understand the beauty of effort, not just the thrill of winning.

Because this game isn’t just a sport—it’s a school. And every weekend, we’re in class.

Share Your Soccer Story

Are you a soccer mom too? Did you grow up on the field like I did, or did you learn the game through your kids? I’d love to hear your story—drop a comment or tag me @cann.momlife on Instagram so we can swap sideline stories and snack hacks.

We’re in this together. And this game? It’s worth every muddy sock and every early Saturday.

I never played soccer myself, but I’ve always loved to watch. Maybe it was all those hours beside my dad, soaking in his passion and eye for detail. Maybe it’s the rhythm, the grit, the beauty of the game when it clicks. Watching soccer still brings me joy—and now, watching my boys play is the best kind of full circle.