Heart of a Coach
Rob Vartughian
University of Maryland, Assistant Men’s Soccer Coach
Chosen Attribute: Discipline
Dictionary definition: “Training to act in accordance with rules.”
My definition: “To do what has to be done, when it needs to be done, as well as it can be done. And to do it that way all the time.”
What or who has helped you develop this attribute? “My college coach, Bob Butehorn, and the environment of the program he leads.”
Favorite Scripture that deals with discipline: “Each one should use whatever gift he has received to serve others, faithfully administering God’s grace in its various forms.” – 1 Peter 4:10 (NIV)
Why I chose this passage: “This passage was a big part of my decision to get into coaching. My college coach is one of the most important people in my life, and I became the man I am today largely because of his good influence. I’m reminded every day that I step on the field that the Lord has blessed me with a gift. I want to be able to use that to help others.”
How I apply discipline to life: “Discipline is one of the most important character traits we have. Every day we make decisions that have a domino effect on others, whether it’s in the workplace, sitting in traffic or going to the store. Striving to do the right thing, the Christian thing, is sometimes very difficult. But it’s discipline put to action that affects so many others.”
How I apply discipline to coaching: “As a coach, you need to show discipline. You are on a platform and 25 or more athletes are looking to you. Because of the roles coaches play in athletes’ lives, they have a real opportunity to impact them in positive ways.
“As a coach, you’re constantly asking and encouraging athletes to buy into what you say. If you are not living it, then what are they really buying into? Living the right way and doing the right thing is contagious, and it’s the only sure way to build a good, solid foundation for a program.
“The Bible speaks about bearing good fruit (Col. 1:10), and all coaches can do that through their interactions with their players. Our messages through our words and actions are powerful, and coaches have an arena to really connect with young athletes and lead the way.”
| “As a coach, you’re constantly asking and encouraging athletes to buy into what you say. If you are not living it, then what are they really buying into?” |
About the Coach:
This fall, Rob Vartughian enters his fifth season as an assistant men’s soccer coach at the University of Maryland. During his first three seasons, he helped the Terrapins to three consecutive College Cup appearances and the 2005 NCAA title. Prior to joining the Terrapins, Vartughian spent two years as an assistant coach for the University of Pennsylvania.
Also the current head coach of the 2006 National Champion Maryland Boys Olympic Development Program (ODP) team of the Maryland State Youth Soccer Association, Vartughian competed at the collegiate level as a goalkeeper for both St. Bonaventure (1996- 1999) and Wake Forest (2000).
Regarding FCA, Vartughian recently helped bring the ministry back to the Maryland campus and has previously served as an FCA Camp speaker. Says Vartughian of the importance of the FCA ministry: “FCA is a great outlet for athletes and coaches. It’s a great time of fellowship and relationship-building across sports.” 
*For more stories about faith and sport, visit www.sharingthevictory.com, the official magazine of the Fellowship of Christian Athletes.
Photo courtesy University of Maryland
