Why we’re sponsoring a kids soccer league and what it has to do with fitness

My daughter was terrified walking into her first soccer practice. She didn’t know anyone. She wasn’t sure she’d be good enough, or what her teammates would think of her.

But by the end of the hour, she was buzzing with excitement. Thanks to a coach who made sure every kid felt like they belonged, supportive teammates, and lots of positive reinforcement.

That moment reminded me why Nerd Fitness exists.

That spirit – of making everyone feel seen, encouraged, and a part of the team, no matter what their starting point is – is exactly what I think is missing from most of the fitness industry.

Too often, gym and classes feel like competitive sports leagues – designed for people who already love working out, already feel confident, already know what they’re doing.
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But what if you’re the “new kid” walking into your first workout at age 30…or 50…or 70? It can feel just as intimidating as my nine-year-old lacing up her cleats for the first time.

At Nerd Fitness, we want to flip that script.

✅ No matter your skill level, there’s a place for you here.

✅ Everyone gets “playing time”

✅ The goal isn’t to be the best in the room – it’s to get a little better, together.

It’s not an accident that my daughter felt that way at her practice. The rec league we are a part of is built around this central idea:

Everyone deserves a chance to play, and everyone deserves a chance to fall in love with soccer.

Everything in the league, from administration, to coaches, to how teammates treat each other is a reflection of that.

Just like it’s not an accident that people stumble on Nerd Fitness and feel similarly. I just got this message from a reader this week:

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Fitness is for anybody in any body. And everyone deserves a chance to find the fitness that works for them.

That’s why we decided to sponsor my daughter’s local rec soccer league in suburban Indiana this upcoming fall season.
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​Not because it’s going to get us a ton of views, clicks or likes.

But because fitness should feel like that first practice: encouraging, playful, and focused on leveling up a little bit from where you started – where you leave buzzing with excitement instead of dread.

So if you’ve ever felt like the fitness world wasn’t built for you, I want you to know: you belong here. You have a seat at the table. And we’re here to help you find the joy in moving, no matter where you’re starting from.
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And if you’re already experienced and have found your thing – AMAZING! We’re so thankful you’re here to continue to learn and help support others on their journey.

Let’s play.

– Coach Matt
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P.S. Looking for a coach who gets what it’s like to feel overwhelmed and intimidated as you’re getting started? I’d love to talk to you to hear more about your journey and see how I can help.