Q&A with Lake Oconee Academy boys soccer coach Conner Domaleski
GREENSBORO, Ga. — A Q&A with Lake Oconee Academy boys soccer coach Conner Domaleski.
What team do you coach?
Conner Domaleski: I coach the boys varsity soccer team at Lake Oconee Academy.
How long have you been coaching and what is your background in this sport?
Domaleski: This is my first year as a head coach, as I was the assistant coach last year under head coach Julie Brooker. I’ve played soccer for as long as I can remember. Growing up, I played for clubs in Conyers and Clarkston and spent 4 years playing at Heritage High School. After I graduated I played goalkeeper for the University of North Georgia.
What one or two things the team does in training that are keys to their success?
Domaleski: It’s hard to say, but tactically speaking we do rondos often where the players are challenged to make quick passes in tight spaces. I feel like this compliments our playing style well. Probably most key to our success is that we never take ourselves too seriously, and manage to get the best out of each other while also having a ton of fun.
Describe your proudest coaching moment.
Domaleski: I don’t know that my proudest coaching moment exists yet because I’m so young in my career. However, I’ve had some really valuable conversations with players about family, difficult situations, and things that transcend the sport. I think if I had to pick, I would choose one of those moments because it will impact my players far more than winning a game ever will.
Name a person who inspired you to play/coach this sport.
Domaleski: I’ve had dozens of influences that inspired me to play and coach. My dad was my coach for a quite a while and I enjoyed that and definitely learned from him. However, my favorite player has always been Ronaldinho because he constantly played with a huge smile and could do things with the ball at his feet that seemed unbelievable to me. He brought a lot of joy to the field and I think I wanted to mimic his demeanor and love for playing soccer.
Please describe the most memorable games/tournaments/championships your team has won.
Domaleski: As I’m writing this my team has played a total of 8 games and won 7. Last year as the assistant we made a run to the final four of the state playoffs which was very exciting. We most recently defeated our region rival Social Circle to remain undefeated in the region and take sole position of first place.
What legacy do you hope to leave as a coach?
Domaleski: I would love to bring a state championship to LOA, but I hope my players see me as a positive influence and someone they can call no matter the situation, time, or place. In our last game, I spotted my former coach from when I was about 12 years old in the stands. It spoke to me that he still follows me, roots for my success, and I know after all this time I could call him up and he’d be at my door in an instant. That’s the type of relationship and legacy I want to leave with these guys.
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