New Jersey Youth Soccer recently hosted its 31st Annual NJYS Awards Dinner presented by RWJBarnabas Health, where many players, coaches and members of the soccer community were celebrated at the Pines Manor in Edison, N.J. One of the honorees that night was Matias De Paz, who was selected as the 2018 NJYS Bob McNulty Travel Coach of the Year.

"Coach Matias De Paz's speech at the Awards Dinner truly epitomized the values of a volunteer youth soccer coach," said Rick Meana, NJYS Director of Coaching. "Coach De Paz did a great job of educating on his belief that the game is for all kids."

De Paz is a dedicated coach for the Jersey City Soccer Association, where he has earned a great deal of respect and appreciation from players, parents and his fellow coaches. At the base of his coaching methodology is a focus on helping players to learn good habits, develop skills and strengthen both their physical and mental awareness for the game.

As noted by many people throughout the club, De Paz has a unique ability to connect with his players, which has led his teams to much success on the field. However, he also understands that valuable lessons oftentimes come in defeat, making his message after each match one that resonates with his players. That type of approach has made him a great coach and mentor for all players who come through the Jersey City Soccer Association.