It's not talent: What two Oklahoma coaches say really creates elite soccer players

As the world prepares for the summer's biggest stage, two Oklahoma coaches say elite soccer players are shaped more by mindset than talent alone. Mark Howard, a Manchester United academy alumnus who trained alongside stars like Rooney and Ronaldo, argues that mentality and extra work separate the truly great from the rest. He notes that highly skilled players can derail themselves without disciplined preparation and self-care. At Oklahoma State, women's soccer coach Colin Carmichael agrees, citing World Cup veterans such as Courtney Dike who demonstrate relentless drive and a willingness to improve. Both coaches contend that consistency—performance in training, film study, and matches—distinguishes the best from the rest, urging young athletes to focus on sustained effort rather than flashy moments.