The Promise vs. the Reality of Oregon Surf Soccer

A few months ago I wrote about my experience as an Oregon Surf soccer coach for the U9 Developmental league and referenced another story related to my other son who was playing his first year of Competitive soccer, U11, at Surf. I figured the best way to start this story was by examining the promise Oregon Surf proudly places on their website:

Oregon Surf SC will provide the best youth soccer experience for players and their families in the state of Oregon.

That’s a pretty bold statement—and I’m sorry to spoil the ending here, but this is a very empty promise. What our family learned about Surf is that the organization is only focused on winning and will work towards that goal at the expense of their club members, team dynamics, and player development. Unfortunately, it turns out they’re not even that good at winning and you’re better off taking your money elsewhere. Hit the Read More button below to dig in.

Read More

Here

Recent content I've written for you—just for you!— to enjoy while you're here.

There

Quick commentary and links to other sources you'll find interesting. I promise.

Everywhere

Some personal background, links to related projects, and other ways to connect.

Hi there. My name is Tom Pacyk and this is my small home on the web. I love the intersection of design, technology, and communication, which is a combination that led me to a career in sales and marketing roles at places like Zoom and ServiceNow. They're a bit old now, but I also had the opportunity to publish a couple of books along the way.

Portland, Oregon is home for me, my wife Beth, and our three kids, but I'm actually a Midwestern transplant—I grew up in the Chicago suburbs and went to school at Purdue and Illinois. When I find some free time I'm probably going to concerts, rooting for the Portland Timbers, or working on my Sunshine Burn Photography project.