Interview

How did you first become involved with the NSCAA?
As an assistant at the University of Massachusetts in Amherst, I helped organize a couple of New England Regional clinics that were sponsored by the NSCAA.

Why do you continue to stay involved with the NSCAA?
Simply put, I think it is the best advocate for soccer at all levels of the game in the United States. The quality of the people involved is exceptional.

Why do you like teaching NSCAA courses?
I believe the courses are educational and practical. They are interactive and very dynamic.

What is your favorite NSCAA course to teach and why?
I enjoy the State Diploma as it is where the game begins! The other course I really enjoy is the Advanced National, as it is a very practical course.

What is the best thing about the NSCAA Academy?
I believe the Academy to be the best environment to help coaches improve their ability to be effective coaches.

Who is your all-time favorite player?
My all-time favorite player is Dennis Bergkamp. He personifies the "Total Football" motto of the Dutch. He is a wonderfully technical player, who makes players around him better. He seems to be the consummate professional, who is still playing at the top of his game into his mid 30s.

Who are/were your mentors in soccer?
Two of my early mentors were Keith Blunt from the English FA and the late Tom Tranter, who was a lecturer at my college in London.

Who are your mentors in the coaching profession?
I have a number of significant mentors in the game today including Mike Russo, Jeff Gettler, Peter Gooding, Tony Waiters and Jack Detchon.

What advice would you give to young coaches?
Keep your mind open, be a good listener, trust your instincts, use other experienced coaches and be enthusiastic. There is always something to learn.

What is your favorite book and why?
The Killer Angels - Michael Shaara Simply put, it was the most vivid and enlightening account of the characters that met on the battlefield that fateful day at Gettysburg in July 1863. It had a profound impact on me.

What is your favorite movie and why?
My favorite movie is an 80s film called Loud Hero. It is a subtle comedy that has always appealed to me. The "clash" of cultures and their effect on each other is very engaging.

What is the last book you read?
To the Last Man - Jeff Shaara

If you could be anyone for a day, who would it be and why?
I would really like to spend a day at the CIA. Just to see what a "mad house" it must be.