Green says players come first at RSCC
Jan. 18—Donnie Green has grown accustomed to building things.
The long-time soccer coach has been tasked at several different stops to either build a program from the ground up, or take something and bring it back to prominence.
This time Green, a native of Kingston, has been tabbed to be head coach of the brand new Roane State Community College women's soccer program.
The school made the announcement last week.
"I wasn't looking for this, it found me," said Green, who coached high school and club soccer for more than 20 years.
"I was first offered the position, I think, in 2022. I had to do a lot of thinking about it, and a lot of praying.
"But I was talking with my wife and we talked about how I enjoy starting new programs, and just how much fun this would be. I sat down and talked with the athletic director, the president, and about five months ago I let them know I would take it.."
Green has found his passion of teaching soccer to children. He spent 10 years as the head coach at Grace Christian School in Knoxville.
His teams reached the state tournament each year from 2015-'17, earning him two district and region Coach of the Year honors during that span.
He has also spent the last six years at Oak Ridge High School where he developed the team into one of the better programs in east Tennessee.
In addition, Green also coached at the Soccer Club of Oak Ridge. In 21 years in the sport, he is 169-89-13.
Since June, Green has been actively recruiting players by visiting high school and club teams.
He's also spent a lot of time at identification camps, working with players and talking to them about taking their games beyond graduation.
"I tell the girls only 7% of high school athletes play sports at the next level," Green said. "I told them whether it is Division I, NAIA or JUCO we're going to run our program the right way, and if they can get the opportunity to play at the next level, they should be proud."
Green said his coaching philosophy is pretty simple. He has and will always put the person first and the athlete second.
"I am passionate about this, and that's why I am here for the student-athletes," he said. "When they know I would run through a brick wall for them, they will do the same for me and this program."
He said his team's on-field style will be aggressive. He said Roane State will pressure opponents all over the field.
Green runs a 4-3-3 formation, but said the Lady Raiders will be able to adjust to the type of opponent their playing.
"I want the girls to know their soccer careers don't have to end after high school," Green said.
"I know some players don't play club soccer, but when I see the passion, the heart a player has for the game, we can work with that."
Green said interested players or parents should contact him at greendw1@roanestate.edu or by phone at 865-712-0390.
"I am really excited about this opportunity," said Green, who has been giving several tours for prospects on their families.
"We have created a Facebook page, a Twitter account, and an Instagram account. I get more excited every day I get new equipment in, uniforms, etc. I have jumped in head first and I am ready for it."
