Kelly Grant is an NSCAA member and also a coach starting out in the profession. She is currently an assistant soccer coach at Catholic University of America in Washington, D.C. She played collegiate soccer at Stony Brook University prior to beginning her coaching career.

Kelly talked with us about her experience as a budding soccer coach and her transition from being a player. Here's what she had to say.

1. Tell us a little about yourself.

My true passion in life has always been soccer. I was fortunate enough to grow up in the Washington, DC area with a supportive family who has helped me achieve my dreams. In high school, my dream was to play soccer for a Division I school. I was blessed to spend my college career at Stony Brook University playing for head coach Sue Ryan. As an adult, I have continued to play soccer on a competitive adult co-ed team. I hope to continue my soccer dreams of becoming a head coach. Also, I love to watch all sports. My favorite teams all hail from Washington, DC: the Redskins, Capitals, and Nationals.

2. What do you enjoy most about the coaching profession?

The best part about coaching is watching my team grow as players and people over four years. I always hope that my job as a coach has a positive impact on their life and that when they have completed their college career that they are ready to graduate and move onto bigger and better things wherever life may take them.

My second favorite aspect of coaching is that my job makes me incredibly happy. It is an amazing feeling knowing that at some point in my day I will be outside working with my team and enjoying a sport which has given me so much. There really is nothing better than making a career doing something you love and for me that is coaching soccer.

3. How did you begin your professional career?

My career began right after I graduated from Stony Brook University in 2010. I was fortunate enough to be hired as an assistant coach at Catholic University of America in Washington, DC. CUA has a special background story for my family as my grandfather graduated from the university in 1951. He excelled in basketball and baseball there and is a member of their Hall of Fame.

4. What specifically has helped you to become a better coach?

Catholic University was the ideal first job and it has definitely helped me become a better coach. JP Sousa, the head coach at CUA, immediately exposed me to all aspects of running a college soccer program. From the start I was involved with coaching, recruiting, film, administrative duties, travel planning etc. JP trusted me and my abilities and he has given me the confidence to simply be me and let that shine through in my coaching. Additionally, the Region I Olympic Development Program has helped me grow tremendously. I went into regional camp soon after I graduated and it has been a life-changing experience. The staff is simply amazing and it is a joy to be around so many similarly motivated people having essentially the same goals. The ODP leadership team has always been open and willing to get me involved in various aspects of coaching on and off the field. I am lucky to call many of them mentors, colleagues and friends.

 5. What professional aspirations do you have?

My professional aspirations will be challenging. They include receiving my Master's Degree, becoming a full time assistant coach, eventually earning my USSF A License then ultimately becoming a head coach and running a successful women's soccer program at the college level. As I move along in my career I want to continue learning as much as possible from anyone willing to give advice or share their experiences.

More from Other Coaches:
Deana Waintraub, University of Minnesota, Assistant Coach
Allison Martino, Rice University, Assistant Coach

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