As I watched that remarkable Commissioner’s Cup performance last Sunday, where the rookie forward from La Salle exploded for a season-high 17 points and nine rebounds in Hunter Soccer Club’s 108-94 victory over Phoenix, it struck me just how much our training philosophy contributes to moments like these. People often ask me what makes our player development system so effective, and I always come back to the same answer: it’s not about reinventing the wheel, but about perfecting the fundamentals through methods that have stood the test of time. At Hunter Soccer Club, we’ve built our reputation on a structured yet flexible training framework that molds raw talent into elite performers—something I’ve seen firsthand in my years working with both youth and professional athletes.

Our approach begins with what I like to call “purposeful repetition.” It’s not just about putting in hours on the field; it’s about ensuring every drill has a clear objective. For instance, when we work on finishing, we don’t just have players take random shots. We simulate high-pressure scenarios—like those final minutes in a tight match—where decision-making and precision under fatigue become second nature. I remember one session where we had our forwards, including that La Salle rookie, execute drills focused on creating space and shooting under defensive pressure. Fast-forward to last Sunday’s game, and you could see the payoff: his 17 points weren’t just luck; they were the result of countless rehearsals. We track everything, from completion rates in training (which hover around 78–85% for our top performers) to in-game stats, and it’s no surprise that players who excel in these drills often replicate that success when it matters most.

Another cornerstone of our method is individualized development plans. I’ve always believed that cookie-cutter training simply doesn’t cut it at the elite level. Take that rookie, for example. When he joined us, we noticed his rebounding needed refinement—despite his natural athleticism, his positioning was inconsistent. So, we tailored exercises to improve his spatial awareness and timing, incorporating video analysis and one-on-one coaching. The result? Those nine rebounds against Phoenix weren’t just a fluke; they were a testament to months of targeted work. And it’s not just about physical skills. We integrate mental conditioning, too, because let’s be honest—the gap between good and great often lies in mindset. I’ve sat in on sessions where we use visualization techniques to help players anticipate in-game scenarios, and it’s incredible how that translates to split-second decisions on the field.

Of course, none of this would work without a culture that fosters growth. I’ll admit, I’m biased here—I think Hunter’s emphasis on mentorship sets us apart. Older players regularly guide newcomers, sharing insights that you can’t get from a playbook. It’s something I’ve pushed for since I started here, and it’s paid dividends. In fact, I’d argue that this supportive environment is why our players adapt so quickly to high-stakes situations, like the Commissioner’s Cup. Looking at that 108-94 win, it wasn’t just individual brilliance; it was a team that knew how to elevate each other, thanks to habits built in training.

In the end, developing elite players isn’t about secret formulas or shortcuts. It’s about blending proven methods with personalized attention, and honestly, it’s what keeps me passionate about this work. As we continue to refine our training, I’m confident we’ll see more performances like that rookie’s—where hard work and smart preparation culminate in moments that define careers. If there’s one thing I’ve learned, it’s that consistency in training breeds excellence on the field, and at Hunter Soccer Club, that’s a principle we’ll always stand by.

LIGHTING, LIGHTING, AND MORE LIGHTING
People are typically drawn to bars solely based on their atmosphere. The best way to knock your next commercial bar design out of the park is using the perfect amount and type of lighting. Use standout light fixtures as their very own statement piece, track lighting for adjustable ambiance, hanging pendant lights over tables, and ambient backlighting to display the alcohol. Bartenders need to serve and customers need to order, so make sure it’s just functional as it is attractive. 

CHOOSING YOUR BARTOP
What may seem so obvious, is often so overlooked in commercial bar design- the material of your actual bartop itself. While we realize stone and marble are as classy and elegant-looking as can be, the reality is that they just aren’t your best option for a durable and long lasting bartop. They crack, have no grip, and break way too many glasses. Opt for a high-quality wood bar instead. Oaks, maples, mahoganies, and ashes are sturdy and provide your customers with a firm grip for their glasses. 

THEME 
In a sea of millions upon millions of bars, how can you make your commercial bar design stand apart from the rest? The answer is to pick a unique, centralized theme and run with it. Whether it’s your next sit-down restaurant bar design, or remodeling the small, locally-favorite gem, you have to find out what your clientele wants. Survey the neighborhood of your establishment and find out what the demographics are there. Maybe a gritty, western bar would be a hit. Or maybe a more modern, sleek design is what’s missing in the area. Whatever theme you decide upon, hit it out of the park with the perfect lighting, wall art, music, and furniture. It’s all in the details. 

THE GUIDE TO YOUR NEXT RESTOBAR 
You’ve got the food, you’ve got the restaurant, you’ve got the customers, now all you need is a beautifully designed bar to top it all off.  Small bar designs for restaurants have a tendency to be a little thrown together and incohesive with the rest of the establishment. Stay on brand- create consistency with tying in the same color scheme, furniture, art, and overall ambiance of the pre-existing restaurant. Make sure the placement of your bar makes sense as well, have it in a place where it’s visible and easy to navigate but not in the way of servers and other guests. If the bar is going to serve food, be sure to consider the location of the kitchen to not obstruct traffic flow. Consider all of these small tips as you work through your next restaurant bar design. 

SPACE CONSTRAINT 
It’s no secret that bars have the reputation of being a little cramped, and in some cases- way too cramped. Consider all of the space constraints while designing your next commercial bar design and we can change that bad rap that bars have been holding for far too long. First and foremost, be sure to measure your bar, barstool, cabinet, and equipment height. Generally, a bar is 42” in height while a stool is 30” in height. Also be sure to allow at least 3’ of space between the bar and the alcohol for the bartender’s functionality and efficiency. Consider multiple register and drink-making stations for bartenders as well. Allowing 2’ between patrons is going to give them enough space to eat and drink, and most importantly, simply be comfortable. All of these considerations are especially helpful if it is a restaurant bar design, where the space is even more valuable.