Coach Bio: Josh Hackett

About Me

My name is Joshua Hackett. I am currently a junior at Tempe Preparatory Academy and I play for AZ Arsenal 05 Teal 1. I first started playing soccer in primary school and have been infatuated with the sport ever since. My club career started off when I was about six years old, playing as a winger for Sereno SC. After Sereno turned into RSL, I moved on to AZ Thunder (Arizona Soccer Club) where I was for two years competing in the ASL. However, I realized that I thirsted for a higher competition and left for Brazas who were in the APL at the time. Two years later I had the opportunity to play at Arsenal where I am currently. Although I have played for a number of clubs, my passion for the sport and commitment to the game and my teams has remained consistent. I have been a captain of every team I have played for, I expect a high level of dedication and passion from my teammates, and I strive to keep things positive and fun. 

Position

Originally starting out as a winger at Sereno, my coaches quickly realized that my true potential lay in the midfield and I have been there ever since. I have played the 6, 8, and 10 in the midfield and thoroughly enjoy all three positions. Playing in the midfield gives me the opportunity to have greater control over the game and have a presence in the offense as well as the defense. I have also had stints at the fullback and forward positions which both influenced and grew my knowledge of the game. I think that it is very important to understand positions other than your own to build a full view of the game. 

Goals/Personal Philosophy

My personal philosophy is one of self-improvement. Whether it’s learning a new kind of shot or even correcting your running form, all that matters is getting better and having fun while doing it. That is why I think it is important to set goals for yourself in life. I think that you should have an end goal and then mini goals in between to reach for. Using myself as an example: My current end goal is to play at the collegiate level. However, to get there I have set mini goals for myself like running a sub 12 minute two mile and mastering my weak foot. I would like to bring this same sort of philosophy into my coaching and will be working with each player to set individual mini goals which they can build upon to reach their larger goal. 

"Josh is an incredible talent of the game. I can see his abilities and understanding of the game grow day by day, due to his diligence in improving his personal game. When I was thinking of who I wanted on staff, I knew I needed to get him involved with this academy. He analyzes movements and dribbling mechanics well, and he has a great understanding of the importance of mental habits in obtaining success in the game. I have all the confidence that he will be a fantastic asset to younger footballers in our academy, as they seek to grasp concepts that will elevate their game tremendously. " -Coach Zack