The Milan Coach Changing Youth Sports from the Ground Up

If something needs to be done at Milan’s soccer fields, chances are Mark Klein is already there.

Klein was named Volunteer of the Year by the Michigan State Youth Soccer Association on Feb. 14 during a ceremony at The Henry Hotel in Dearborn.

Thomas Faro, executive director of the association, said Klein’s willingness to step in wherever needed made him stand out.

“The sacrifices Mark has made on behalf of so many young people and our community are admirable,” Faro stated. “I’m not sure I’ve ever heard him decline a call for help.”

Faro noted Klein has served as a parent, board member, coach, referee and administrator in the Milan soccer community.

Andrew Cislo, former president of the Milan Youth Soccer Club and Southeast Michigan Storm, said Klein helped build programs serving players from age 2 through high school and adult leagues.

“His attention to detail led to successful and healthy programs for all ages,” Cislo explained.

That attention showed up in small ways. Cislo recalled season-ending “Under the Lights” celebrations at Wilson Park, where each player received a medal. Klein designed and built a podium for the ceremonies, constructing it sturdy enough to hold far more than needed and in two pieces so it would fit into his minivan.

“Player safety was always at the top of his mind,” Cislo said.

Elizabeth Satterley, who volunteered alongside Klein, described him as a steady presence, even after his own children left the program.

“As a parent, coach and manager, Mark was my go-to for understanding rules or handling tough situations,” she said.

She said Klein consistently emphasized development over wins. After she once posted about a victory in an in-house game, he gently reminded her the goal at that level was fostering a love of the sport.

“He always said the best result we could get was a tie,” Satterley noted, explaining he wanted every child to leave the field feeling successful.

Kristi Higgins said Klein also put the organization first when making decisions, even when it did not benefit his own children.

Though no longer on the Milan Youth Soccer Club board, Klein continues to coach a Milan Storm travel team. At a recent end-of-season event, Higgins said he highlighted that each player had scored at least one goal during the season.

“He emphasized that when a team works together, that is success,” she said.

Beyond Milan, Klein also volunteers at the state level, where he chairs the Rules and Bylaws Committee for the Michigan State Youth Soccer Association, reviewing policies before changes are implemented.

For those who have worked alongside him, the award reflects years of behind-the-scenes effort.

“He is a tremendous volunteer and an even better person,” Cislo said.

Featured photo: Mark Klein gives instructions to young players during a Milan Storm practice. Photo courtesy of Milan Youth Soccer Club