www.PerformanceGoalkeeping.com

Twitter @PaulRogersPGK | Facebook/performancegoalkeeping

Who is Paul Rogers? 

I am currently the USWNT Assistant coach, USWNT Goalkeeping coach and owner of Performance Goalkeeper. I have been with the USWNT for five years now and before that I coached in the Womens Professional League (WPS) with St. Louis Athletica, Internationally with the Canadian National Team, and in college at Florida State University, University of Louisville and Tulane University. Outside of these roles, I have coached in my native England as well as playing professionally in England and the US.

Who were your roles models growing, and why?

Role models as a player were: Dave Beasant, Hans Van Breukelen, Nigel Martyn, and later on Peter Schmeichel. All of which were very different types of goalkeepers and characters. I was also lucky to be coached by some great coaches and people, too many to mention. However, as this is a US article I will mention someone who had a big influence on me as I transitioned from playing to full time coaching and his name was Mike Sanitch, a goalkeeping coach up in Indiana, who is a great coach and person. Of course I have been fortunate enough to work for some fantastic and successful coaches as well, Even Pellerud (ex Canadian Head Coach and current Norwegian Head Coach), Pia Sundhage (ex USA Head Coach and current Swedish Head Coach), and the person I turn to most for advice more often then not is Mark Krikorian the FSU Head Coach.

How should Goal Keepers leaving high school prepare for the college environment? 

It has been a while since I coached in college, but I think the question should be “how should a goalkeeper aim to develop”. My biggest issue with a lot of young goalkeepers is there lack of knowledge of the position. Young keepers do a lot of training, but in my opinion are not coached enough. The question all players should ask, goalkeepers or outfield players, is “why”? Why did that happen? Why should I do it that way? Why are we doing this? The more a player understands the game the better chance they have at developing.

In your actual question about college and the environment, this can be a page of answers. Keeping it simple, the pace of the game is quicker, you play in a mixed aged group now so it can be more physical, dealing with life away from parents structure which can include nutrition-sleep-scheduling time correctly. There are lots of areas that players need to be prepared for as they transition to college, and a good college program will look to make this a smooth transition.

You were part of the USWNT that won the gold medal at London 2012. What did you learn from this experience? What were your responsibilities?

First of all it was an enjoyable experience, being in my home country, playing at Old Trafford, St. James’s Park, Wembley etc. This was my second Olympics, my first was 2008 in Beijing with Canada (we lost to the US in the quarters) and I learnt more in the 2008 Olympics which allowed me to be more efficient and diligent in the World Cup 2011 and Olympics 2012 with the USWNT. World events are like nothing else in football, the set up, time away, preparations, scouting, travel, the event itself is four-five weeks, the preparations are two years. My responsibilities where pretty much the same under Pia the whole time, of course the goalkeepers, I did the teams set pieces attacking and defending, some scouting, video analysis, and 100% involvement in all decisions about the team. Pia was a coach that wanted you’re input about everything, she was open to ideas, and always listened (didn’t mean she always agreed!!!). So obviously with set pieces being a major responsibility of mine I took it hard when we lost on penalties to Japan in the WC 2011, but I did learn from it.

You’ve coached at various levels. What’s the biggest challenge when coaching at a National level with Goal Keepers?

Coaching National Team keepers is quality, you have the pick of best ones and I have been lucky to have good keepers with Canada and US. The biggest challenge is to keep them all moving forward, making training enjoyable but purposeful and keeping them all on top of there individual game. I like to challenge myself to keep things fresh without trying to reinvent the wheel. I make sure I hold them accountable to the highest level possible on the pitch.

You’ve worked with some world class Goal Keepers. What key characteristics do these Goal Keepers posses? 

Well, they need to have talent, you’re not going to play at this level without it. So, talent, dedication, technically solid, tactically aware, strong mentally, in the modern game the USWNT GKs need height (would say very minimum 5’8″), and usually a separating area, meaning they have one or two things that others don’t in there game.

Educating coaches and players is important to you. Explain how “Performance Goal Keeping” courses addressing this? 

Well, I started Performance Goalkeeping (PGK) in 2005 to run coaching courses/Clinics for goalkeepers and it has just grown since then. Now we run a newsletter, member’s area, goalkeeper courses, and coaching education. I feel there is a lot of goalkeeping “Camps” out there and they serve a purpose, what we try to do is run our sessions as close to how I would coach a pro. We will do the same exercises, talk through the same coaching points, and aim for quality over quantity. So often parents will say “make him/her tired” or “work them hard”, my answer is these are the wrong sessions for that. We look more at teaching the position, of course football is a physical sport, but we do not over work the keepers to the point where nothing is learnt. Most of our goalkeeping courses have a heavy focus on technique, we feel it is often over looked or the details are not addressed. When it comes to coaches, we are open to coaches coming to courses and we go into clubs and coach there goalkeepers at the same time going through what we are doing and why with the coaches. I have been lucky enough to have been around top level coaches and players, from the English Premier League, to the top female players and most in-between, so if I can help the next coach we are willing to do so.

What advice would you give a young player wanting to you play college or professional soccer one day? 

First of all have a big dream, and then have realistic targets to help reach that dream. Train, Play, Learn, Adapt and Repeat. A quote I like and believe in is “The Sky is not the limit – I am”. You need drive, courage, belief, and a bit of luck along the way (and we can encourage luck by doing the right things).

Who is Whitney Sharpe?

Born and raised in Iowa, I am a genuine Midwest young woman who is not afraid to leave my roots and take risks to accomplish my childhood dreams. Although I’ve always traveled and lived far from home, I never forget where I came from. It is what defines me and what has empowered me to be brave in determination to be happy.

Where did you play growing up?

Growing up I first played for the West Des Moines Soccer Club in West Des Moines, Iowa from the age four, until U15. Determined to take my game to the next level, I chose to join the Chicago Magic when I was 15. For the next four years, I dedicated myself to traveling six hours to chicago every weekend for league games, and flying all across the country for any amazing club tournaments. I owe my parents my life for making all of those trips! I was also lucky enough to play for the Iowa ODP State Team for several years, the Region II Regional ODP team every year since I was 15, and the US Youth National Team from U15-U20. The overseas trips to places like Spain, Germany, Holland, France, and Brazil only fueled my passion for the game.

Did you have a soccer role model growing up? Who, Why?

Growing up I highly idolized the real Ronaldo, the Brazilian footballer, who played with various famous clubs such as Barcelona, Inter Milan, AC Milan, and Real Madrid. I idolized “The Phenomenon” for his sheer passion for the game, and his ability to bring joy to all those watching him because of his amazing skills. He, along with legends like Pele and Colombian futbol star Andres Escobar, showed me how playing with passion for the game can take you to the next level. They inspired me to stop over thinking the game, and just have fun doing what you love most. They introduced passion to me on the field.

How did playing in college help develop your game?

I had a unique college experience that I wouldn’t change for the world. I had the opportunity to train under different coaches with different styles, that definitely allowed my game to grow and gain a different perspective and experience that others did not receive. Youth soccer is for technical development and a bit of tactical awareness, and playing futbol in college allows you to refine your game, by continuing to grow your technical and tactical game, and compete against some of the best in the world. The best part about college soccer is learning your role on your team of amazing girls, and putting 100% effort into fulfilling your specific role. Whatever it may be. You learn to put the team first, and you have a new family.

Whats it like playing for such a succesful club?

Playing for AFC Ajax and living in Amsterdam is surreal. I still wake up every morning and thank God for blessing me with this amazing opportunity. We are treated as professionally as the men’s team: gear, amazing fans, media, appearances, autographs, traveling accommodations, and the facilities are unbelievable. To get to be a part of a program with such deep history in the game of voetbal (futbol in dutch) is to be apart of an experience that not many get to have. The people of Holland live and breathe soccer, and have ever since they were born. I love being a part of the rich soccer culture, and amazing fan base. Not to mention, the men are about to hopefully clench yet another championship this Sunday, and our team will be front row cheering them on!

What differences do you see between the American game and the European game?

In my opinion, soccer in America is highly focused on strength, power, speed, and athletic ability. So far my soccer experience here in Europe has been one that is focused more on the technical side of the game, and truly mentally understanding the game of soccer in order to execute it properly. Every training session ends with some sort of scrimmage, whether its 4v4, 7v7, or 11v11, which shows how important simply playing the game is to their system and style of play. I believe the difference between American style soccer and European style soccer comes from Europe’s long history with the sport, and the fact that they all live and breath soccer since they are born.

What motivates you to be successful?

What motivates me to be successful is the desire to turn the hundreds of hours I spent training on my own in my yard into a professional career. To prove to myself and my family that all of the countless hours and money we put into training and traveling, it really did pay off. I have always been a very motivated and determined person to accomplish what I have my mind set to do, and I did not let any obstacle stop me from reaching the reality of living my dream. My passion for soccer made it easy to take the necessary risks, and to never give up.

What advice would you give a young female player dreaming of playing professional?

The advice that I would give to a young soccer player striving to go pro one day, would be to take risks that put you out of your comfort zone because that is when you grow as a player. As a soccer player and as a person, you cannot grow to your full potential when you are always comfortable with your teammates and location. The ones who succeed and accomplish their dreams are the ones that take risk after risk to step out of their comfort zone, be in an atmosphere they arent familiar with, and challenge themselves to be the best they can be. Anyone can be happy and successful staying in the safe zone. It’s those who take the risks into the unfamiliar that truly learn who they are. On and off the field.

Who is Jessica Fishlock?

Jess Fishlock is just a music loving, free spirit sister to five siblings who happens to be Welsh and likes to kick a round leather thing around.

Where did you grow up playing soccer?

I grew up playing football with my brothers before joining Cardiff City ladies who were my local team in Wales.

Did you ever train on your own away from the field?

Yea, I trained on my own away from the field, I still do. Sometimes I just like to do a run, it helps me relax and think. I love my teammates but sometimes I need some alone time ha-ha.

Did you have a role model growing? If yes, who and why?

I wouldn’t say I had a role model, but I loved Eric Cantona he was my idol. Then Paul Scholes…what a player!

What motivated you join Seattle Reign FC and the new NWSL?

I think growing up America was always the place you wanted to play if you could. You can’t deny that the league holds the best players in the world, if you had a chance to compete against them week in week out, you wouldn’t say no. The fact that Laura Harvey is here too, made the decision easier.

What’s impressed you most about the soccer culture that’s been created in Seattle?

Seattle as a city loves soccer, you just have to look at the Seattle Sounders to see that and the response that we have had already. The whole atmosphere, support and love they have for soccer has impressed me a lot.

You captain the Welsh National Team. What’s the biggest challenge playing at the highest level?

Winning. You can play so well at the highest level, yet make one mistake and it costs you a game, a qualification and you can never get it back. It’s tough and it’s why it makes every game a difficult one.

What differences do you see in the American game, compared to the British/Welsh game?

Main difference is the tempo of the game. It’s such a fast game in America. It means you have to be mentally switched on at all times and your transitions have to be within seconds. On top of that, your quality still has to be there and that what makes the league really good.

What motivates you to be successful?

I don’t think I have this burning desire to be successful, it’s more I just love football (soccer). It’s just who I am. Then I have this competitive edge in me who just hates losing. Put them together and you get this person who plays soccer like a kid, but with a winning mentality like every game is a Final.

What advice would you give a young girl dreaming of playing professional soccer?

Just believe, believe in yourself, be ready to always learn whatever age/stage and work hard. The rest will take care of itself.

Who is Whitney Engen? 

I am an adventurous and curious 25 year old looking to make the most of every experience that I am offered in life.

Where did you grow up playing soccer? 

I grew up playing soccer in Southern California and played club soccer for Slammers FC in Newport Beach.

Did you ever train on your own away from the field? 

Yes, I really enjoyed playing soccer tennis and would play quite often.

Did you have a role model growing? If yes, who and why? 

No not really… My Dad really tried to expose me to various role models as I was growing up but I never really took to any. He was always bringing me articles or taking me to women’s college soccer games. We went to quite a few games at UCLA. I think that even though I didn’t have one particular role model, being able to watch older women do what I was doing as a youth helped me to believe that soccer could be a future for me.

How important was UNC’s role in developing you’re game as a player…and person? 

I cannot stress how beneficial UNC was for me in all facets of my life. I think that some of my greatest development as a player as well as person, came from that environment. As a player you are constantly challenged and pushed but there is still an incredible amount of morale and support. It was the first environment that allowed me to be my crazy competitive self on the field but still be friends with my teammates when we left practice. There was this professional understanding that if someone tackled you in practice it wasn’t personal, it was just every girl trying to be the best player each and every day. Personally I grew as well. Moving 3000+ miles from home can get you out of your comfort zone and make you open up in ways you never expected. I think that making that move early in life has allowed me to explore other difficult life decisions such as playing abroad.

You play for the USWNT team. What’s the biggest challenge playing at the highest level in women’s soccer? 

I think the biggest challenge is the speed of play. The game moves so much faster at that level and you have to be switched on at every minute. You are playing against the worlds best each and every day and if you don’t keep up, they will punish you. If you give a player like Alex Morgan or Abby Wambach half an inch, they will effectively make the most of it.

You currently play for Liverpool FC in England. What differences do you see from the American game compared to the English game?

I think one of the biggest differences is the understanding of the game. Very few coaches in the US stress the importance of watching football games every week. Watching the game played at the highest level (EPL, La Liga, UEFA Champions League, the Bundesliga) helps to develop tactical understanding. I am constantly amazed at how well my teammates here in Liverpool know and understand the game. I think it stems from their culture as football is a way of life here.

What advice would you give a young girl dreaming of playing professional soccer? 

I would tell a young girl to try to enjoy the game as much as possible. Yes, this is a sport and a profession, but it is extremely demanding and if you don’t enjoy it, it can get tiresome. Spend as much time with the ball as possible too. I wish someone had told me that earlier in my life.

Who is Amber Brooks?

Factually speaking, I am a 22 year old women’s professional soccer player for FC Bayern München. I played for UNC where I won two NCAA National Championships and have grown up through the US Soccer National Team ranks having represented the red, white, and blue in the 2008 FIFA U-17 Women’s World Cup in NZ and 2010 FIFA U-20 Women’s World Cup in Germany. Digging a bit deeper, I am a dreamer who is working hard to achieve my dreams and quoting Anson, strive to live my life on a “never ending ascension.”

Where did you grow up playing soccer? 

I started playing recreational soccer in my hometown, New Hope, PA when I was 4. When I was 9 I joined the local boy’s travel soccer team and continued to play for them until I was 12 when I joined my first girl’s travel team, Lenape Valley. From there I had short stints with Vincent United and Langhorne Strikers. When I was 15 I joined Arsenal World Class out of Northern NJ where I played under Kaz Tambi at the U-18 level until I graduated high school.

Did you ever train on your own away from the field?

Yes when I was about 11, I sought the help of a personal soccer skills trainer and trained with the staff at Total Soccer for several years. When I reached high school, I began training with James Galanis at Universal Soccer Academy who trains the likes of Carli Lloyd and Heather Mitts. Whenever I am home I still make my way to Medford, NJ to get in sessions with James.

Did you have a role model growing? If yes, who and why?

My role models were the stars from the 1999 World Cup Team like Mia Hamm, Brandi Chastain, Julie Foudy, Cindy Parlow, and Michelle Akers. I still remember making a poster to cheer on the team and watching the final in my living room. I was also an avid Philadelphia Charge fan back in the WUSA days. On the men’s side, I enjoyed watching Zinedine Zidane play and even named my dog, Zizou, after him and his memorable 2006 World Cup. In terms of everyday life role models, I have always looked up to my parents.

You enjoyed a really successful college career. What moment will you remember most?

It’s hard to beat the moment when the whistle blew signaling the end of my college career and jumping into my teammates arms and hoisting the National Championship trophy overhead. But there were so many little moments of chaos, laughter, and love that will still with me forever.

What made playing for University of North Carolina so special? 

What I think people outside of the UNC culture don’t appreciate about Anson is how much he cares about his player’s development as human beings. Yes, he wants to help us achieve our goals on the soccer field and always wants to win, but he is much more concerned about our academic performance and our personal character. Our team is does not have “rules,” but is governed by core values as we are expected to live principle centered lives . And while UNC is an extremely competitive environment, the underlying love, care, and support for one another is incredibly powerful and in my opinion, largely responsible for our success. I inherited a whole new family during my four years at UNC and there simply is no greater feeling than that of family.

You currently play for Bayern Munich. What differences do you see from the American game compared to the German game?

I think that the common observations of differences between American and German/European soccer are accurate. The American game is still more reliant upon physical abilities and the intangible mental toughness, while the European game focuses more on technical and tactical aspects. I think that both continents are exchanging strengths as there are more technically and tactically savvy players developing in the US while the Europeans are placing more importance on strength and conditioning. However, the soccer culture is unbelievable over here and I think the ability to turn on the TV and have the quality of the Bundesliga or the Champions League playing is a huge advantage.

What advice would you give a young girl dreaming of playing professional soccer? 

I would say that if you set your mind to it and put in the work, there are plenty of opportunities to play professional soccer, either domestically or overseas. If it’s truly your dream, you have to be willing to make sacrifices and put yourself in challenging environments so that you are always improving. The quote, “There is no staying the same, you’re either getting better, or getting worse” is a good adage to keep in mind.

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Who is Christen Press?
A California girl turned fotbollspelare.

Where did you play growing up?
Always played striker. I played for Slammers in Newport Beach.

You enjoyed a really successful college career. What made this journey so rewarding?
I think I found myself as a player in college. I figured out what I was good at and what I loved about the sport. It was an amazing experience to be a part of such a tight-nit team and community.

In 2010 you received the Hermann trophy. What did that mean for you?
Of course, it was a huge honor, and something I had dreamt about when I was younger.

You played for Magicjack in the WPS, then decided to move aboard to play professional soccer. What differences do you see between our American game and the European game?
There is a huge difference stylistic between American soccer and European football. The biggest I would say is that American players focus more on athletic dominance, pace, and intensity while European players focus more on skill mastery and a possession-oriented game.

You’ve scored 6 goals in 7 games for USA National team! What the biggest challenge playing at this level?
I think there is a challenge just changing from different environments. The USWNT plays such a high-paced game, it’s challenging to adjust back and forth from my club team.

What motivates you to be successful?
I try to focus on just being the best version of myself and reaching my potential as a person and player. That’s the ultimate goal in my life.

What advice would you give a young female player dreaming of playing professional/college soccer?
Just to keep things in perspective and make sure they are enjoying the journey. If you are not having fun, you’re not playing.

Purchase a copy of Rise & Shine: The Jay DeMerit Story HERE

Who Jay DeMerit?

I’m a pro soccer player living the dream, having played almost 10 years of professional soccer in England (Watford FC), the MLS (Vancouver Whitecaps), and for the US National Team. If you want to know the details of my life, just check out Rise and Shine: The Jay DeMerit Story!

Did you have a role model growing up? If yes, who and why?

My parents were my biggest role models. They gave me an amazing support system to grow from and challenged me in every way to be the best that I can be.

What’s the biggest difference between MLS and playing playing in Europe?

I think the speed of play in Europe is a little bit faster, especially in and around the box. There is a little more pressure on the players and teams, which can make it more mentally challenging as well.

Where do you see MLS in ten years time?

I see the majority of the stadiums packed w/  noise as loud the European leagues, International players from all over the world, and respected among the world of soccer. Its an exciting time for the MLS and its future.

50/50 Random Questions

Barcelona or Real Madrid? Barca

Old Trafford or Wembley? Old Trafford

Messi or Mardonna? Messi

R & B or Rap? Rap

Beach or Mountains?  BOTH in Vancouver

MLS or EPL? EPL

Watford FC or Vancouver Whitecaps? Love them both

Alex Morgan or Abby Wambach? Alex Morgan

What’s the one piece of advice you would give a young player dreaming of playing professional soccer?

Enjoy the hard work, be a good teammate, know your strengths, and work on your weaknesses.

Carli Lloyd & Heather Mitts

Follow James on Twitter @coachgalanis & Universal Soccer Academy @academynews

Today we have a special guest called James Galanis

About James 

James Galanis is considered one of the best coaches/teachers of soccer in the USA. For over a decade James has helped players of all ages and all levels excel at individual development, the game, and in life itself. His wisdom and methodology come from his own experiences in life and on the soccer field.

James is an Australian native who made his professional soccer debut at the tender age of 15. He worked under various high-level coaches including world soccer legend Ferenc Puskas and he played in Australia’s National Competition for three years, spending the majority of his career competing in the Victorian First and Second Division.

Click here and listen to our #BlogTalkRadio Show RMC & James Galanis 

Follow Erin on Twitter @erinmcleod18 & Carmelina @cmoscato4

Today we have a special guest called Erin McLeod & Carmelina Moscato

About Erin

Erin McLeod is a Canadian soccer player. She is a Goal keeper for the Canada Women’s National Team and currently plays for Chicago Red Stars in the National Women’s Soccer League. She is also a Right To Play ambassador.

About Carmelina

Carmelina Moscato is a Canadian soccer player. She is a midfielder who currently plays for the Chicago Red Stars in the National Women’s Soccer League and for the Canadian Women’s National Team.

Click here and listen to our #BlogTalkRadio Show RMC - Erin & Carmelina 

Follow Liz on Twitter @LizBogus

Today we have a special guest called Liz Bogus, Professional Soccer Player for Seattle Reign FC in the new NWSL Professional league.

About Liz…

Bogus attended Arizona State University in Arizona. She made an immediate mark on the team her freshman year, when she was named Pac-10 Freshman of the Year. Bogus led the conference in game-winning goals with seven, which tied the school record for a single season. She ranked third in shots (62) and goals (10) and had three assists. Bogus played on many semi-professional teams before being drafted by FC Gold Pride in the 2008 WPS General Draft. She moved to Los Angeles before the final rosters were announced. Los Angeles Sol signed her off waivers for the 2009 season and she appeared in 7 games for the club. In 2010, Bogus was picked up by the Boston Breakers and spent the next two seasons playing in Boston scoring three goals.

Click here and listen to our #BlogTalkRadio Show RMC & Liz Bogus