Background
A Tacoma native, Coach Greg Howes has been a fundamental part of the soccer community in the South
Sound for over twenty years. From the beginning, he has proven himself to be a winner from all perspectives. Playing in both the indoor and outdoor professional soccer arenas, Howes has certainly earned the respect and admiration of fans, fellow players and coaches. During his career, he has received many individual and team-related accolades. From 1999 to 2003 Howes collected an impressive grouping of awards including NPSL Champion, A-League Rookie of the Year, Goal Leader, and All-Academic Pac 10. Setting the stage for his professional career these awards and his dynamic play won him contracts in both Seattle and Milwaukee. Howes has continuously impressed the soccer world, in the professional arena. He has been recognized for his skills and has won the MISL MVP, MISL Scoring Champion and USL Finals MVP awards.
Howes exhibits a sort of genius on the soccer field both as a coach and a player. His energy is contagious and motivates not only his team but excites fans. He has built his coaching philosophy based on his observations of successful coaches throughout his career. In 2007, Howes was contacted by Tacoma Stars owner, Marian Bowers. Ready to retire from competitive play, he accepted the offer to coach the Tacoma Stars. Having grown up in the Tacoma community he recognized the importance of reviving semi-professional/professional indoor soccer. Taking on the task of organizing the former rec league players turned semi-pro was not without its challenges. Overcoming the barriers that most first year coaches face, Howes spent his first year with the Stars laying the foundation for the amazing play seen in the 2009/2010 championship season.
Goals
As Howes plans for the upcoming season, he is surveying the way the team works and choosing the players that are skilled and committed. He will demand the best of his team while continuing on with his proven coaching style. The Tacoma Stars have gained considerable respect in both the PASL Professional and Premier leagues. As the club grows, he looks forward to a time when the Stars will play in a bigger arena while maintaining accessibility to their fans.
Howes is looking to play against the best teams in the pros. He is focused on keeping games competitive as well as entertaining for fans. Likewise, the team will continue to play an active role in their community outreach with local soccer organizations and schools.
Commitment to Defend
Moving forward into his first year coaching in the PASL Professional league, Howes is committed to defending the legacy of the original Tacoma Stars and the future of the new team. His insight into all aspects of play on the field has developed a cohesive team that not only relies on skill but also rests solidly on the foundation of the character and integrity of its players.