Q: What is a Team Manager?

A: A team manager is the link between a team's coaching staff and the outside world. Some people refer to this position as a team "mom" or team "parent". However, soccer team managers are often men. In competitive soccer, team managers register with the affiliating organization (e.g., US Club Soccer or USYS) and are given cards (i.e., passes), just as like the coaches and players. Team managers are permitted to stay on the team bench-side of the field, while all other parents remain on the spectator-side of the field. The team manager has the right to represent the team at official meetings, cast votes on behalf of the team, and serve as the team official at games in the absence of the coach. A good team needs and follows a great team manager into greatness. When you see a picture of a team holding their trophies, think "Team Manager".