Living in the Zone with Aleks Mihailovic: A Pioneer of American Soccer
This week on the “Living in the Zone” podcast, we are honored to host Aleks Mihailovic, a true pioneer in the world of American soccer. From his early days as a player to his current role as a coach and mentor, Aleks has dedicated his life to the beautiful game and the development of young talent. In this episode, Aleks shares his journey, insights, and the powerful principles that guide his coaching philosophy.
Zone Moments on the Pitch
Aleks Mihailovic’s soccer career took off at a young age where he quickly made a name for himself as a talented midfielder. His exceptional skills and understanding of the game earned him a scholarship at Jacksonville University where he earned All-American Honors. A stellar career, amassing 40 goals and 40 assists becoming only the third player to do so in Division 1 history at the time. Aleks’ career took him to the professional level where he had stints with the San Diego Shockers and Washington Diplomats of the NASL.
However, Aleks’ impact on soccer extends far beyond his playing days. He transitioned into coaching, where he found his true calling. His passion for the game and desire to give back to the community led him to establish the Soccer Made in America training program and the Soccer Academy for Excellence (SAFE). These programs are dedicated to developing young players, instilling in them the values and principles that ensure success on and off the field.
Transition to Coaching: A New Chapter to Utilize the S.C.O.R.E.® System
Aleks’ transition from player to coach was driven by a deep desire to make a lasting impact on the next generation of American soccer players. He recognized that while talent is essential, the mental aspects of the game are equally crucial. Drawing from his own experiences and his introduction to the S.C.O.R.E® System Aleks developed a coaching philosophy centered around the principles of resilience, overcoming self-limiting beliefs, and mastering “the Zone.”
In the podcast, Aleks emphasizes the importance of developing a strong mental foundation in young players. He believes that self-discipline, concentration, and belief are the cornerstones of success, both on and off the field. By focusing on these aspects, Aleks aims to create well-rounded individuals who can excel in all areas of life. In 2019, Aleks was recognized for his lasting and influential impact on the game as he was inducted into the United States Adult Soccer Hall of Fame.
American Soccer and SAFE Foundation: Developing World Class Decision Makers
The Soccer Made in America training program, founded by Aleks, has become a beacon of excellence in youth soccer development. The SMIA training methodology is recognized as one of the most effective teaching programs in the country. The institution is based in the Chicagoland area with other selected locations throughout the United States.The program provides young players with the tools and guidance they need to succeed at the highest levels of the game. Through a combination of technical training, mental conditioning, and character development, Soccer Made in America has produced numerous talented players who have gone on to achieve great success.
Aleks’ dedication to nurturing young talent is evident in every aspect of the program. He emphasizes the importance of creating a positive and supportive environment where players can thrive. By instilling the values of hard work, perseverance, and teamwork, Aleks ensures that his players are not only skilled athletes but also responsible and resilient individuals.
Overcoming Challenges: The Power of Resilience Fueled with Optimism
One of the key themes of this episode is resilience. Aleks shares his own experiences of overcoming challenges and setbacks throughout his career. He believes that resilience is a vital trait for any athlete, as it enables them to bounce back from failures and continue striving for success.
Aleks’ journey is a testament to the power of resilience. From facing injuries to adapting to new environments, he has encountered numerous obstacles. However, his unwavering determination and positive mindset have allowed him to overcome these challenges and achieve his goals. In the podcast, Aleks provides practical tips for developing resilience and shifting from negativity to positivity.
Mastering “The Zone”
Aleks delves into the concept of “the Zone” – a mental state of optimal performance where athletes, parents, students and all alike are fully immersed in the present moment. He explains how mastering the Zone can lead to peak performance and ultimately success in every area of your life. Through visualization techniques, mental rehearsal, and self-awareness tools, Aleks teaches his players how to enter and stay in the Zone during crucial moments.
The S.C.O.R.E.® System, developed by ZoneCoach® Founder and Living in the Zone Podcast Host Jim Fannin, plays a significant role in Aleks’ coaching philosophy. By incorporating the principles of Self-discipline, Concentration, Optimism, Relaxation, and Enjoyment, Aleks helps his players achieve a balanced and focused mindset. This holistic approach not only enhances their performance on the field but also positively impacts their personal lives helping them reach their full potential.
Aligning Actions with Values: Setting and Adhering to Your Standard
Another crucial aspect of Aleks’ coaching philosophy is aligning actions with values. He believes that true success comes from living a purpose-driven life and harnessing one’s unique gifts. By encouraging his players to identify their core values and align their actions accordingly, Aleks helps them unlock their greatest potential.
In the podcast, Aleks shares inspiring stories of players who have transformed their lives by embracing their values and staying true to themselves. He emphasizes that success is not just about winning games but also about becoming the best version of oneself.
An Inspiring Conversation of Self-Discovery and Personal Growth
This episode of “Living in the Zone” with Aleks Mihailovic is a must-listen for anyone passionate about soccer, personal growth, and mental performance. Aleks’ journey from player to coach is filled with valuable lessons and insights that can inspire us all. Whether you are an aspiring athlete, a coach, or simply someone looking to live a purpose-driven life, Aleks’ wisdom and experiences will resonate with you.
Join us for this inspiring conversation as we explore the power of resilience, the importance of Self-discipline, and the art of mastering the Zone. Discover how aligning your actions with your values can unlock your greatest potential and lead to a balanced, fulfilling life. Tune in to the “Living in the Zone” podcast and get ready to be inspired by the incredible journey of Aleks Mihailovic.
Aleks’ dedication to soccer and youth development is truly inspiring. His commitment to fostering high levels of confidence and self-belief in young players sets a remarkable example for all of us. Through his coaching programs and personal journey, Aleks demonstrates the power of resilience and the importance of mastering the Zone.
At the heart of Aleks’ philosophy is the belief that aligning our actions with our values can unlock our greatest potential. This principle, coupled with the teachings of the S.C.O.R.E.® System, provides a powerful framework for achieving peak performance in all areas of life.
As we listen to Aleks’ story and insights, we are reminded that success is not just about winning but about becoming the best version of ourselves. By embracing resilience, cultivating self-discipline, and staying true to our values, we can navigate challenges and achieve our goals.
We invite you to join us for this enlightening episode of “Living in the Zone” and be inspired by Aleks Mihailovic’s journey. His experiences and wisdom offer valuable lessons for athletes, coaches, and anyone seeking to live a purpose-driven life. Subscribe to the podcast and get ready to embark on a journey of self-discovery and personal growth.