We would like to take a moment to recognize the outstanding achievements of our coaching staff, as well as learn more about DJ McMoil, a recent United Soccer Coaches 30 Under 30 honoree. 

Clemens and Horton earn National C License 

Congratulations to Afton Clemens, Director of Recreational Soccer and Member Services, and Tom Horton, U12 Boys Staff Coach and ADM HS Head Boys Coach, for recently completing their National C License Course. This is a fantastic achievement and we are lucky to have both coaching at VSA!

17 VSA Coaching Staff Members Receive Grassroots License 

Congratulations to the following coaches for recently receiving the Grassroots Coaching License!  The club recently hosted 4 courses - one of each game model - 4v4, 7v7, 9v9, and 11v11. 

• Eric Shafer
• Madison Gremler
• John Huynh
• Jared Abodeely
• Scott Crawford
• Jamie Pitlick
• Joy Smith
• Zachary Corwin
• Kaydee Cuesta
• Alex Herrera
• Carrie Schuler
• John Simons
• Andrea Barutta
• Matt Fischer
• Apollinaire Kabasele Kayembe
• Dylan Godwin
• Rob Kline
  

Coaching Staff Spotlight: DJ McMoil

Where are you from? Can you tell us about your family?

I grew up in Minnesota and attended college in Chicago. That's where I met my wife Kristen - we've been married for eight years and have a five year old son named Asher who started kindergarten this year. 

What club did you play for growing up? Did you play in college? 

I played for Wright County Soccer under the tutelage of the legendary Steve Doimer. I played goalkeeper for Moody Bible Institute in Chicago. 

How did you get your start in coaching?

I was given my start in coaching by Steve Doimer, who I mentioned above. He helped me get involved with the city recreational program before giving me a U10 boys team at Wright County Soccer. He introduced me to coaching education as well, helping me sign up for my E License back in 2015. 

How long have you been with VSA? What teams and programs do you work with?

This is my second year with VSA. I coach the VSA Rush 2009 and 2010 boys and the U10 boys academy. I also help with Player Factory, the College Advisory Program, and do some work as a liaison to MLS clubs for our top players. 

What club or clubs did you work with before VSA?

Before coming to VSA, I was the Technical Director at Rush Wisconsin West in La Crosse, WI. I had previously worked as a goalkeeping coach for Iowa Rush, along with head coach roles at clubs in Minnesota like Wright County Soccer and Minnesota Thunder Academy. 

What current licenses do you hold?

I'm currently completing my USSF A-Youth License. I also hold the United Soccer Coaches Premier Diploma, a UEFA C License, a USSF Coach Educator License, and a Master of Science in Recreation and Sports Science from Ohio University.

What advice do you have for those looking to advance their coaching career?

Be curious and be available. At the beginning of my coaching career, I watched other coaches at work more than I actually coached myself. I was curious about why they chose their activities, how they structured their season, how they made their tactical decisions. The other piece of advice I would offer is to spend time coaching very young players, 5-8 years old. The benefits are impossible to exaggerate - they play the game with joy, they force you to know exactly what you're trying to communicate, they teach patience, they teach you how to teach. It's a lot of fun and it's a very important challenge for coaches of all levels to embrace. 

DJ was also named a 30 Under 30 honoree by United Soccer Coaches. 

The program is a year-long education and mentorship opportunity designed to support up-and-coming members of the coaching profession who are 30 years of age or younger. IT also gives participants exposure to mentorship, and the opportunity to take advantage of educational offerings, such as advanced diplomas and the United Soccer Coaches Convention.

30 under 30 United Soccer Coaches Announcement

You can find DJ on the United Soccer Coaches Podcast at the link below:

Listen Here