By Ember McElrath 

Southmoore Coach Spotlight is, Steven Tam, is the assistant varsity boys soccer coach and has been for the past seven years. Steven went to McLoud High School, and then went on to the University of Maryland as well as Oklahoma State University. 

First getting into and falling in love with coaching when his daughter was younger and also playing soccer, there are many reasons for this coach as to why he does what he does. 

“Being a mentor and part of these young men’s development is the biggest reward of coaching for me,” said Tam. “Being able to work with a knowledgeable and like-minded coaching staff at Southmoore truly is an honor; head coach Kit Stephenson is an incredible coach and mentor.” 

Not only does Tam feel honored to be with the coaching staff, but it is a mutual feeling for them as well. 

“He’s my assistant on varsity and I literally would not be half the coach I am without this man having my back,” said Head Coach Stephenson. “He is exactly what coaches should strive to be. He is and always has been in it for one reason, his boys.”

With COVID canceling last year’s season Coach Tam is ready to get back out there this year. 

“I’m looking forward to our athletes getting to play games again, after working so hard last year it was crushing to see them lose their season so I am looking forward to seeing them on the pitch again,” said Tam. 

Even though the team is still dealing with COVID the school and coaching staff have made it a point to not let it distract or take away anything else from the kids. 

Outside of coaching Tam owns his own business as well as being a busy family man with a wife and daughter at home. When he is not busy running his company or coaching the boys, Tam enjoys traveling and spending time with his family.