We recently connected with Tapshak Augustine and have shared our conversation below.

Tapshak, thanks for joining us, excited to have you contributing your stories and insights. Was there a defining moment in your professional career? A moment that changed the trajectory of your career?

A defining moment in my career came when I received the scholarship to play soccer in the United States. Coming from Nigeria, this opportunity was a life-changing moment for me. It was the turning point where I realized that my passion for soccer, combined with my academic pursuits, could open doors I never imagined possible.

The journey wasn’t easy. Moving to a new country, adjusting to a different culture, and balancing academics with soccer training were all challenges I had to face head-on. But looking back, it was during those tough moments that I learned some of the most valuable lessons. I learned the importance of resilience, how to stay focused on my goals, and how to persevere even when things seemed overwhelming.

I remember my first big match on the new team, in front of an audience that was unfamiliar with me, yet I knew that moment could define my career. I played with all my heart, knowing that the opportunity was one I had worked so hard for. The success I experienced after that match was not just about scoring a goal or winning; it was about proving to myself that I had what it took to succeed at a higher level.

That experience taught me that success isn’t just about talent; it’s about commitment, adaptability, and staying true to your vision even when faced with adversity. It changed my trajectory because I realized that I could take what I’d learned on the field—discipline, teamwork, leadership—and apply it to all areas of my life, including my personal and professional growth.

The lesson I’ve carried with me is this: Never underestimate the power of hard work and dedication. Embrace the challenges that come with stepping out of your comfort zone because those challenges are often the very things that lead to your breakthrough.

Great, appreciate you sharing that with us. Before we ask you to share more of your insights, can you take a moment to introduce yourself and how you got to where you are today to our readers.

I’m Tapshak Augustine, a soccer coach with a deep passion for the game and a strong commitment to helping players and teams reach their full potential. I’ve always loved soccer since I was a child growing up in Nigeria, but it wasn’t until I received a scholarship to play in the United States that I truly realized the impact the sport could have on my life. The journey was challenging, but it shaped me into the person and coach I am today.

As a coach, my focus is on more than just the technical aspects of the game; I aim to develop well-rounded players who excel both on and off the field. I believe in building a strong mental foundation, as much as physical skill. I work with players to enhance their confidence, resilience, and leadership abilities, ensuring they have the mindset to perform at their best in high-pressure situations.

I offer coaching services to players of all levels—whether they’re just starting out or looking to improve their skills to a professional level. Through training sessions, team-building exercises, and strategic guidance, I help athletes understand the game from a holistic perspective. I also work with teams to create cohesive and effective strategies that maximize performance and foster collaboration on and off the pitch.

What sets me apart from others is my commitment to developing not just the athlete, but the person. Soccer, like life, is full of challenges and obstacles, and it’s important to learn how to overcome those. I pride myself on creating an environment where players can learn from their mistakes, celebrate their victories, and grow into leaders, both on and off the field.

One of my proudest achievements is seeing my players grow and succeed, both in soccer and in life. I’m especially proud of the progress my players make when they realize their own potential, which is more fulfilling than any match or championship win. It’s about helping them unlock new levels of self-belief and performance.

For those who are interested in working with me or following my journey, I want them to know that I’m deeply committed to helping athletes achieve their dreams. I believe that soccer is a powerful tool for personal development and that anyone can improve with the right mindset and approach. My work is not just about soccer—it’s about creating better people through the sport.

Do you have any insights you can share related to maintaining high team morale?

Managing a team and maintaining high morale comes down to a few key principles: communication, trust, and a sense of shared purpose.

First, communication is vital. As a coach, I make sure to keep an open line of communication with my players. It’s important that they feel heard, respected, and supported. Whether it’s through regular check-ins, team meetings, or just a quick one-on-one conversation, clear communication helps address issues before they grow into bigger problems. It also keeps the team aligned with the common goal, so everyone is on the same page.

Second, trust is fundamental. For a team to work well together, each player needs to trust their coach and their teammates. This means being transparent about expectations and showing players that you have their best interests at heart. Trust is built over time, through consistency in action, as well as recognizing individual contributions to the team. When players feel valued and trusted, their morale stays high, and they are more likely to give their best effort.

Lastly, maintaining a sense of shared purpose is essential. In soccer, every player has a role to play, and it’s important that they understand how their contributions fit into the bigger picture. I always remind my players that success is not just about individual performance but how they come together as a team. We celebrate both individual achievements and team victories, but I emphasize that the ultimate goal is the success of the entire team.

I also make sure to keep morale high by creating an environment where players feel motivated, but not pressured. We have fun, we build camaraderie, and we support each other, no matter what the scoreboard says. High morale is driven by the belief that the team has each other’s backs, and that we win or lose together.

In short, my advice is to lead with empathy, foster trust, and keep reminding your team of their shared purpose and potential. With these elements in place, a team can not only perform better, but also stay motivated and positive through challenges.

Putting training and knowledge aside, what else do you think really matters in terms of succeeding in your field?

In addition to training and knowledge, the most important factors for succeeding in my field are mindset, adaptability, and building strong relationships.

First, mindset is crucial. Success in soccer, or any field, is not just about raw talent or skills—it’s about the mental attitude you bring to the table. Players and coaches need to be mentally tough, resilient, and able to handle setbacks. The ability to stay positive, push through adversity, and maintain focus when things get tough is what truly sets the successful apart. A strong mindset helps you embrace challenges as opportunities for growth rather than obstacles.

Second, adaptability plays a huge role. Soccer is a dynamic game where things can change quickly—whether it’s a shift in strategy, an injury, or the opponent’s playstyle. Being adaptable allows you to think on your feet and adjust strategies in real time. For a coach, this means not just having a solid game plan but being flexible enough to pivot when circumstances demand it. Players need to develop the same skill to adjust their play in response to the evolving nature of a game.

Finally, building strong relationships is often overlooked, but it’s essential for success. A great team isn’t just about the skills on the field—it’s about the connection between players, coaches, and staff. Trust, communication, and mutual respect are the foundation of any successful team. As a coach, I invest time in getting to know my players as individuals, understanding their motivations, challenges, and goals. This creates a bond that enhances team cohesion and performance. When players trust each other and feel supported, they perform at their highest level.

A combination of a strong mindset, adaptability, and fostering relationships are key to long-term success in my field. Talent and knowledge get you far, but these other qualities are what truly elevate a team to greatness.

Contact Info:

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• Twitter: https://x.com/tapzzed14
• Other: https://www.tiktok.com/@tapzzed14

Image Credits

Lulu Z