our philosophy

Hammer It Home

Hammers Academy was forged from a philosophy that equipping youth with soccer skills means setting them up with necessary skills for life.

Through a close-knit community and strong leadership, our club provides top-tier coaching for kids to excel in soccer and life. Based in the Kansas City area, we’re proud to serve local families by emphasizing values like resilience, teamwork, accountability, and integrity—pushing players to apply those qualities in every aspect of life.

Tom Holmes
Club Director / Head coach

Off the Pitch:
supporting my beloved Man United and Wrexham FC, going on walks with wife Mary Cate,  son Callan, and labrador retrievers Kane and rolo.

Jason Bessey
Head coach

Off the Pitch:
I enjoy spending time with my family and staying active through cycling and pickleball. I also enjoy reading and watching sports with my kids.

Melissa Mereghetti
assistant coach

Off the Pitch:
I love time with family and friends, traveling, lake days, watching our kids play sports, working out, cheering for Chiefs, KU, SKC, and walking our pups.

Julie McInerney
assistant coach

Off the Pitch:
I love time with my family: Kieran, Madeline, Matilda, and (dog) Winnie, plus friends, exercising, teaching 2nd grade, cheering on my teams, and traveling.

TJ Lipari
assistant coach

Off the Pitch:
Involved in KC youth soccer as a ref, assignor, mentor, and Field Marshal. Passionate about Chiefs, Royals, and upland hunting during the winter.

Alli Chonko
assistant coach

Off the Pitch:
Lover of travel, outdoors, sports, and music. Happiest with a donut, my rescue pups Atlas and Auggie, and time with family and friends. fueled by caffeine and adventure.

Ryan Johnson
club trainer

Off the Pitch:
I love spending time with friends and family. I enjoy being active and outdoors, and when not outside, I support my favorite team: Chelsea.

faq

Common Questions

Here are a few of the most common questions regarding the club.

How can I contact the club?
What documents are required for player registration?
What leagues do the club teams participate in?
Where will training be held?
How do I stay updated with club news?
What age groups do you cater to?
Do players need to purchase their own uniforms?
How do I become involved in fundraising for scholarships?
What should I expect after tryouts?