Coaching Philosophy: As a coach, first and foremost, it is key to distinguish between a Youth player (U19 and below) and a Senior player (post-high school age). It is important to remember that high school soccer is still a developmental phase for every player, and the athlete is not yet a finished product - at the same time, we want to compete at our highest level and play the best soccer we are capable of playing, all while developing the individual on and off the field.
My objective is to teach the game of soccer while creating a positive learning and athletic development experience for players. I seek to enable motivated players to compete at the highest level attainable based on their talent, soccer ability, level of motivation, and work ethic. As a soccer coach and educator, I make an effort to teach and coach the game of soccer to players within a wide range of age groups and skill levels while maintaining a global perspective on the technical, tactical, physical, and mental aspects of the game.
As a mentor for young athletes, I understand that soccer is a vehicle to teach teamwork, responsibility, leadership skills, and innumerable other positive values. It is my hope that players I work with will be able to develop the mental toughness and passion for the game to play at the highest level they can attain, as well as translate this attitude to excellence in life.
Coaching Background & Experience: FPYC / GFR, Virginia ODP, Wash. Spirit Super Y, 2022 NCSL Girls COY Award, club teams in DC metro area since 2005
Coaching Licenses: USSF B, United Soccer Coaches Premier Diploma, Performance Analysis, Barcelona Methodology Course, USSF Grass Roots Instructor
Playing Background: Johns Hopkins Alumni team, IMG Soccer Academy, Tahuichi Soccer Academy Bolivia, Maccabi USA U-23, MMSL Maryland Major Soccer League, UMBC & Salisbury University men's club soccer, CES/JDS high school soccer
JV Co-Head Coach / Varsity Assistant Coach
Jay Liwanag
Coach Jay has been coaching players at all levels since the mid 1990’s. Jay believes in lifelong learning and holds a USSF National License, Coerver Coaching Diploma, U.S. Urban Soccer Diploma and TOP Soccer License and United Soccer Coaches Goalkeeper Diploma. As a Filipino-American, he is an active member of the United Soccer Coaches Asian Pacific Islander (API) Advocacy Group. His experience with youth soccer and the pressures demanded on young players at an early age motivated his desire to get into coaching while in college to provide an atmosphere where players can be creative and learn from making decisions and learning from mistakes.
- USSF National License
- Coerver Coaching License
- U.S. Soccer Urban Soccer Diploma
- U.S. Soccer TOP Soccer License
- USC Goalkeeper Diploma taught by the late Tony DiCicco (former U.S. Women’s National Team Coach)
- United Soccer Coaches Member since 2013 – 4 v 4 Diploma
- Professional Development Certificate (National Federation of State High School Associations)
JV Co-Head Coach
Gregory Knox
As a coach, I prioritize individual player development within a supportive team environment. My goal is to teach, develop, and inspire young soccer athletes to reach their full potential. I emphasize a possession-based style of play, combined with tactical team-centered approach. It is my goal to teach players how to perform at the optimum level of their ability in their age group, whether it is a game or practice. By focusing on technical skills, tactical awareness, and mental toughness, I aim to help players develop a love for the game and achieve their personal and team goals. My coaching philosophy is rooted in a possession style and Total Football based training while creating a fun and competitive atmosphere where players can learn, grow, and become self-reliant soccer athletes.
I believe in enriching the lives of young soccer players by fostering their development both on and off the field. My coaching approach emphasizes skill development, tactical understanding, and sportsmanship, while promoting a healthy lifestyle and physical fitness. I strive to create a supportive and inclusive environment where players can compete at their highest level, build character, and develop leadership skills. I ensure equal training and playing time and provide opportunities to play at every position regardless of the score. I have a proven ability to integrate and organize teams of various skill sets. Beyond the game, I am dedicated to promoting soccer within our community and providing opportunities for players to continue their involvement as athletes, coaches, or referees. My focus on player growth ensures that my players are well-rounded student-athletes who are prepared for success in all aspects of life.
- US Soccer Grassroots 11v11, 9v9, 7v7 Grass Roots Diplomas
- USSF Grassroots Grade 8 Referee
- United Soccer Coaches Advanced Regional Diploma
- NFHS Certified Interscholastic Coach
- NSCAA Fundamentals of Coaching; VHSL State Coaching Component-Soccer
- NYSCA Coaching Youth Sports-Soccer Certification (2014) Soccer
- AYSO (American Youth Soccer Organization) Member (2013), AYSO Advanced Coaching Training
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