For thousands of young athletes across our Clubs, sports are about much more than wins and losses. They are about learning teamwork, building confidence, developing leadership skills, and creating lasting memories. At the center of these experiences are the dedicated volunteer coaches of the Boys & Girls Clubs of Snohomish County.

Each year, more than 1,600 volunteer coaches make it possible for over 1,100 sports teams to participate in athletics across our Clubs. These coaches donate countless hours mentoring young athletes, teaching the fundamentals of the game, and helping youth grow both on and off the field.

While every volunteer coach across our organization plays an important role, Coach Josh Peterson is one example of the dedication and spirit of service that makes our athletic programs so meaningful.

Coach Peterson has coached flag football at the Alderwood Boys & Girls Club for the past decade. He first began coaching when his oldest son, Noah — now a high school senior — was young. Alongside Noah, his younger son Jordan also grew up participating in Club sports. What started as a way to support his own children quickly became something much bigger, as Coach Peterson went on to mentor athletes of all ages, from youth teams through high school players.

The Peterson family’s commitment to the Club continues today, with both Noah and Jordan now serving as referees for Club sports programs and giving back to the same community that helped shape them.

Every season, there is a waiting list for Coach Peterson’s team — a reflection of the positive impact he has on players and families alike. His philosophy is simple:

“You cannot make the game about you; it is always about the kids.”

A veteran of the United States Navy, Coach Peterson brings discipline and consistency to every practice, and abides by the military adage, “Early is on time, and on time is late”. He always arrives an hour early to the field to prepare for his players. More importantly, he understands that every child comes to the field carrying different experiences and challenges.

“You don’t always know where kids are coming from, and the challenges they face off the field. I always want to be that person they can look up to and count on. By the end of every season, they’re my kids too.”

The impact of volunteers like Coach Peterson, combined with the support of our sports sponsors and generous community of donors, helps ensure youth throughout all our Clubs have access to affordable sports opportunities, equipment, and scholarships.

As we continue to grow our sports programming, volunteer coaches remain at the heart of every season — shaping not only athletes, but future leaders in the community.