The Rise of Rebel Soccer
Seven years into his coaching journey, Hutton Sharp has already left an indelible mark on Tascosa’s soccer program. After cutting his teeth with High Plains Drifters Soccer Club, Sharp’s leadership culminated in a historic 2024 season, securing the program’s first gold ball since 2008. “And now we’ve added even more to our trophy cabinet!” he adds with pride, showcasing the program’s growing success.
Beyond the Whistle
While his players know him simply as “Sharp,” there’s more to this coach than tactical expertise. A self-proclaimed metal music enthusiast with a hidden talent for Rockband, a popular video music game, Sharp brings an unexpected blend of intensity and creativity to the pitch.
The rest of this story is only for subscribers.
His pre-game ritual includes a Chick-fil-A meal and a strict policy: “Don’t make substitutions on corner kicks.” When he’s not coaching, Sharp hints at another passion project – writing books about soccer, which he admits “may or may not already be in the works.”
A Philosophy of Growth
“Learn, Grow, Enjoy Playing Soccer” – Sharp’s coaching motto reflects his approach to the game. His favorite piece of coaching advice resonates with this philosophy:
“Do the small stuff well, and then do one great thing.”
This mindset translates to the field, where Sharp’s team spends 85% of their time on attacking strategies. “We don’t run drills!” he emphasizes, preferring instead engaging activities like his favorite “Wall Game.”
Building Community Through Soccer
What makes coaching in the Panhandle special? Sharp points to the mental toughness required in a region where teams “have to work for everything we receive, plus how much we have to travel just to compete at a high level.”
With goals of “Ten Wins and a Trophy” for the upcoming season, Sharp celebrates the program’s passionate fanbase: “Our fans, which are legion, are positive and passionate about helping our kids succeed, which is the best thing a coach could ask for!”