Ann Marie Chao's story is a rich tapestry of dedication, adventure, and a profound love for sports that began in the vibrant landscapes of Bryn Mawr, Pennsylvania, and Syracuse, New York. From her early days, Ann Marie was not just participating in sports; she was living them. Her childhood was adorned with the thrill of soccer, lacrosse, competitive swimming, track and field, basketball, and volleyball, painting the picture of a life built on the foundation of athleticism and adventure.
Her journey of leadership and coaching ignited at Camp Near Wilderness in Upstate New York, where she first embraced the role of a lifeguard. Her path led her to Camp Lenox in Western Massachusetts, where she flourished as a Unit Leader, Certified High Ropes Course Instructor, and a mentor in soccer and basketball. Her commitment to nurturing young talents continued at Camp Chinqueka in Connecticut, further solidifying her role as a beacon for aspiring athletes.
Ann Marie's spirit of resilience and determination was further tested and proven in the United States Navy, where she was stationed in San Diego. Here, she not only served her country with honor but also continued to challenge and surpass the boundaries set before her on the soccer fields and basketball courts, demonstrating the true strength and versatility of a female athlete.
Her move to North Carolina marked a new chapter of community and family. Ann Marie quickly became a pivotal figure in local soccer, coaching her nieces and later contributing her expertise to NZone Sports, where she honed her skills under the guidance of our current General Manager. Her coaching credentials are as impressive as her background, with certifications from NFHS, U.S. Soccer Grassroots, First Aid, and CPR, highlighting her dedication to safety, excellence, and the holistic development of young athletes.
In 2023, Ann Marie took her passion for coaching to Grays Creek High School, where she led the Girls Junior Varsity team, showcasing her ability to inspire, lead, and develop the potential within each player. Her drive to "pay it forward" and enrich the lives of the youth in our community is a testament to her character and her unwavering commitment to the sport of soccer.
As she steps into her role as Co-Director of the Fury Futures Program, Ann Marie Chao brings with her a lifetime of experience, a heart full of passion, and a vision for a future where every child has the opportunity to grow, learn, and succeed both on and off the soccer field. Her story is not just one of personal achievement but a blueprint for what dedication, passion, and a love for community can accomplish.
