Mike Aycock’s career is highlighted by numerous Olympic Development Program (ODP), high school, and collegiate coaching positions, prompting scores of honors and awards. Aycock’s award list recently grew one line longer as the long-time coach was named the 2022 recipient of the Indiana Soccer President’s Award.
After serving in coaching roles within the ODP program for 33 years, Aycock cites this as one of the most rewarding experiences of his life.
“I have formed treasured friendships here and have learned more than I could have imagined, both from my colleagues and from all the wonderful players I have had the privilege to work with,” said Aycock.
Aycock’s extensive soccer related contributions in the Hoosier state span well beyond ODP. He has served as head coach at Indiana State University, Saint Mary of the Woods College, and both Terre Haute South High School boys and girls programs.
Perhaps one of Aycock’s most significant contributions to the beautiful game in Indiana took place in the late 70s and is still creating an impact today. Alongside some fellow Indiana State colleagues, Aycock was a co-founder of the Vigo County Youth Soccer Association (VCYSA), which still provides soccer opportunities in the Vigo County area today.
Recently, Aycock was able to travel to Morocco alongside a group of fellow coaches including Indiana Soccer’s George Perry. The group traveled to the African nation to work with members of the sports community and provide coaching clinics. The trip was sparked through connections Aycock made right here in Indiana.
Aycock’s continual inspiration and dedication to soccer in Indiana created memorable impacts on many. Mike has the ability to not only teach the game at a high level, but to inspire others to create a love for it as well.
Todd Sheely, Indiana ODP director stated, “When a person can instill a love for the game all the while making his or her players better, that to me is the true definition of a coach. The number of players who are now officials, coaches or parents of players that encountered Mike Aycock is enormous. Mike has left us a model to be used for many years to come.”
Alexis Watkins, Indiana ODP 2005 player added, “Thank you, Coach Mike. You have helped so many of us become better soccer players but also develop a love for the game. You taught me many lessons about the game, and you did this by allowing me to play and enjoy the game. Thanks again ‘Wizard.’”
Joy Carter ODP Administrator had this to say, “You are so deserving of this Award. You mean so much to myself & my family. You were Anna’s favorite coach for 2 years, 20+year ago (and I think you may still be her favorite) and were a great part of John Carter’s life. I know he would be saying, “Way to go Wizard”
The President's Award is awarded by the Indiana Soccer Board of Directors annually to an individual who exemplifies extreme dedication to the soccer family in the Hoosier state.
“Mike possesses and exemplifies the most attractive and desirable attributes of a coach. He is a servant at heart and as a result, his peers and those who have had the privilege of being coached by Mike, have benefited significantly from his insatiable desire to serve others.” stated Dave Guthrie, Executive Director of Indiana Soccer.
Below Are Michael Aycock's Lifetime Achievements
- Indiana Soccer Hall of Fame Inductee - Class of 2011
- Coaching Director for Vigo County Youth Soccer
- High School Coach for Terre Haute South boys and girls
- Head Coach, Indiana State University
- Head Coach, Saint Mary of the Woods College
- Member of Indiana youth Soccer Coaching Committee
- Indiana ODP Program Coach for 26 years
- Indiana Soccer Coaching Instructor
- Member of the ODP Spirit Committee
- Presenter multiple times for Indiana Soccer Symposiums
- Winner of the 2002 Good of Soccer award
- USSF National Youth License
- USSF "B" License