Each month we feature one ASA coach to learn more about his or her background and personal story and this month we’re featuring Coach Zak!
What programs do you coach at ASA and how long have you been coaching with the club?
This is my second year coaching at Alexandria. This year I coach the 2006 Girls White team, and I assist Ryan Alexander with the 2002 and 2003 Girls Red teams. I also coach goalkeeper training sessions and this year I’m coaching Futsal ID for the first time.
When did you begin coaching? What got you interested?
I started coaching in college in North Carolina (I played at UNC Asheville). I coached for a local club and at the YMCA. Growing up playing soccer, I wanted to get involved in the coaching capacity since I knew how important coaches can be on players. I knew that once I graduated college I wanted to stay around the game.
What is one of your favorite things about coaching for ASA?
I think there is a family atmosphere at ASA and it is enjoyable coming to the field each day to work with players who really enjoy playing soccer.
Where did you grow up and what’s your favorite soccer memory from your childhood?
I grew up playing in Baltimore, MD. A big memory I have was playing for Tommy Park, our executive director at ASA, who coached my club team!
When you’re not coaching what do you like to do in your free time?
I am an avid sports fan, so when I’m not coaching I am tuning into all the teams that I support.
Who’s your soccer hero and why?!
I would have to say that I have two soccer heroes:
Zach Thorton was a goalkeeper from Baltimore and he was the goalkeeper I always wanted to be like when I was growing up. Second, Didier Drogba — he was a big time player in big time games for Chelsea.
And finally….give us one fun fact about yourself.
Fun fact about me is, my favorite color is red. Haha.
Thank you Zak! We’re glad to have your expertise at ASA. Good luck with your Futsal team this winter.
