The Importance of Communication: The FC Cincinnati’s Success Secret

CINCINNATI, OH - AUGUST 23: Junior Moreno #93 of FC Cincinnati during U.S.Open Cup Semifinal game between Inter Miami CF and FC Cincinnati at TQL Stadium on August 23, 2023 in Cincinnati, Ohio. (Photo by Michael Miller/ISI Photos/Getty Images)
CINCINNATI, OH - AUGUST 23: Junior Moreno #93 of FC Cincinnati during U.S.Open Cup Semifinal game between Inter Miami CF and FC Cincinnati at TQL Stadium on August 23, 2023 in Cincinnati, Ohio. (Photo by Michael Miller/ISI Photos/Getty Images)

In the competitive world of soccer, many elements come into play to determine a team’s success. Tactics, individual talent, and management strategies are just a few examples. However, behind the scenes at FC Cincinnati, one approach has stood out as the true secret to transforming the club into a strong contender for trophies: communication.

Head coach Pat Noonan is leading a quiet revolution at the club, demonstrating that effective communication is not just an empty cliché, but the backbone of a winning team. When Noonan took the reins of FC Cincinnati, the challenge was monumental: to turn a team that often occupied the last place into a title-winning aspirant. In just two years, Noonan and his team have proven that this was possible, and the secret to this turnaround is clear – communication.

Noonan emphasizes how open and honest communication with his players, especially with captain Luciano Acosta, played a crucial role in this transformation. He not only acknowledged his own past communication mistakes but also worked diligently to improve how he related to his team. The result? Acosta has evolved remarkably, not only as a player but also as a leader. The captain is now seen as one of the leading contenders for the MLS MVP award and the Golden Boot.

CINCINNATI, OH – AUGUST 23: Cincinnati FC players celebrate their goal during U.S.Open Cup Semifinal game between Inter Miami CF and FC Cincinnati at TQL Stadium on August 23, 2023 in Cincinnati, Ohio. (Photo by Michael Miller/ISI Photos/Getty Images)
CINCINNATI, OH – AUGUST 23: Cincinnati FC players celebrate their goal during U.S.Open Cup Semifinal game between Inter Miami CF and FC Cincinnati at TQL Stadium on August 23, 2023 in Cincinnati, Ohio. (Photo by Michael Miller/ISI Photos/Getty Images)

Luciano Acosta’s story is just one example of the power of communication at FC Cincinnati. The team recognized the importance of helping new members, such as Aaron Boupendza, adapt quickly to the club. They hired a translator to overcome language barriers and ensure that the message is understood on and off the field. This not only facilitated Boupendza’s integration but also demonstrated a commitment to effective communication at all levels of the team.

Communication is not a new concept in the sports world, but FC Cincinnati is showing how it can be the decisive factor that separates winners from losers. Under the leadership of Pat Noonan, the club’s culture has evolved, and the results are there to prove it. Open and honest communication between coach and players is not just a winning strategy but also a valuable lesson for everyone involved in the world of sports.

In a world where statistics and tactics often dominate the headlines, FC Cincinnati reminds us that behind every kick, pass, and goal is the essence of success – the ability to communicate, understand, and work together as a united team. At the end of the day, FC Cincinnati shows us that, in soccer and in life, communication is the key to achieving our goals.