ORANGE PARK, Fla. — Carson Pickett made headlines as the first athlete with a limb difference to start for the United States Women's National Team. But behind her success lies a story of profound influence from her father, Mike Pickett, whose coaching prowess has left an indelible mark on girls soccer in Northeast Florida.
Named the top girls soccer coach in the nation by MaxPreps, Mike Pickett's impact reverberates beyond mere statistics. With a coaching philosophy grounded in accountability and nurturing talent, Pickett has cultivated a winning culture at Saint Johns Country Day, clinching an impressive 14 state titles and propelling 54 of his athletes to college soccer programs.
"I think I'm very direct and demanding, and I definitely hold kids accountable. But, if I coached like I did when Carson was here, I probably wouldn't have a job," Pickett said, reflecting on his coaching evolution.
While his coaching style has evolved over the years, Pickett remains steadfast in his commitment to fostering a supportive environment for his players.
"Honestly, he's been the key to our success. He's built an unbelievable culture for our program. He harps on it every year that it's the most important thing," remarked Sydney Schmidt, one of Pickett's former players.
For Pickett, coaching isn't solely about winning games; it's about shaping the lives of young athletes in the community.
"When we understand this isn't about us winning games and putting us above everything else, it's for the betterment of all these kids in the area," Pickett emphasized.
A passion for coaching ignited during his teenage years, fueled by the guidance of influential high school coaches. This passion led Pickett to pursue education and soccer coaching in college, setting him on a path that spans over 35 years of coaching excellence.
"We have a lot to educate ourselves on as far as recruiting, the transfer portal, and NIL is going to hit in high school it looks like. There's a lot for us to continue to educate, and the day we quit educating, you're pretty much done," Pickett reflected on the ever-evolving landscape of coaching.
Pickett's legacy transcends trophies, resonating deeply within the players he's mentored and the community he's enriched. With an unwavering commitment to excellence and continuous improvement, Coach Pickett stands as a stalwart figure in the realm of girls' soccer, leaving an enduring impact that extends far beyond the field.