Anderson named SD Girls’ Soccer Coach of the Year

The South Dakota High School Coaches Association recently revealed the Coach of the Year Awards for the Fall of 2022. Mark Anderson of Tea Area High School was named the Coach of the Year for girls’ soccer across all classes.

Anderson was taken by surprise when he found out he was nominated shortly after the end of the successful season, which concluded with a State A Championship win by the Titans over West Central.

“I was told I was nominated which was an honor and I really didn’t expect to win especially out of both Class A and AA,” said Anderson. “When I got the call I was very honored as the coaches all vote for coach of the year. My assistants, my players, parents, my wife and family and everyone at Tea Area Schools helped earn this award. I have so much support. So glad I’m part of TAHS!”

Anderson has been coaching the Tea Area Lady Titans High School Girls Soccer Program since its inception in 2013 and has a record of 85-94-1B. He has led the teams to nine playoff appearances, six championship game appearances with runner-up finishes in 2015, 2106, 2018, and 2020. He has also brought two State Championships to Tea, one in 2019 and 2022. Anderson was also named the US Soccer Coaches Association’s Northwest Region Coach of the Year in 2019.

Under Anderson’s helm, the girls’ soccer program in Tea has fielded a Junior Varsity and Varsity squad all ten seasons. Participant numbers continue to grow each season.

As a coach, Anderson focuses on developing his players both on and off the field. He creates a positive and competitive environment while teaching the proper techniques of the game. The fun is evident in the many team bonding activities planned and his desire to have his players truly enjoy the game of soccer. He credits the success of the program to the hard work of his assistant coaches, players, administration, and the community of Tea.

Coach Anderson has a great respect for his opponents and the coaches of those teams and enjoys competing with so many quality coaches in South Dakota High School Soccer.

Anderson has also previously coached for various clubs and associations, including Sioux Falls Soccer Association, Great Plains Soccer Club, and Sioux Falls Flyers Youth Hockey Association. He and his wife Cheri reside in southwestern Sioux Falls and have four grown children and five grandchildren.

Anderson will be honored at an awards banquet on June 18 at 1 p.m. at the Dakota Dunes, the exact location of the banquet will be announced at a later date.