Tell us about your athletic career.

I am currently a professional soccer player for the Colorado Rapids. At 16 years old, I was signed to a professional contract with the Celtic of the Scottish Premier League. I was called up to the Scottish National team twice. I’ve played on one of the teams in the top league in Holland, ADO Den Haag. I’ve also played on Aberdeen. Throughout my career, I have always had a hand in helping other players, beyond coaching on a professional level here at with the Rapids DA U14-U18 teams. Presently, I also coach at Cherokee Trail HS in Aurora. Back in Europe, I coached the youth team players of Scotland.

Why did you decide to become a private coach?

I played soccer for 16 years and am still playing. Soccer was naturally the sport I wanted to get involved with coaching in 1 on 1 or small group sessions. I think there are a lot of benefits to private coaching. It’s a more intimate setting and I think it provides the best possible option.

What do you enjoy most about coaching?

I’ve gained a lot of experience. I’d like to relay some of the things I’ve been taught to young athletes. I like seeing the client work on their skills and practice it and keep improving. When I see their improvement, it lets me know that I did something right. I had some great coaches when I was young, and I want to emulate them.

What can a client expect from private lessons with you?

It depends on the age of the client. I usually focus on technical work and we’ll chat before and after a session. I try to make a session as game related as possible. We won’t be juggling all day since you never have to do it in a game. We’ll do some shooting drills that are related to soccer in a game situation.

What is your coaching style or philosophy?

Again it varies by age. Younger athletes must enjoy playing the game. If they don’t, then maybe they shouldn’t be playing. You have to enjoy playing in the backyard. You have to let the kids play and develop. I can implement some ideas like passing techniques and encourage them, but they need to have fun because young players can get fed up pretty easily.

What is your favorite moment in your athletic career?

On the Celtic I played in the UEFA Cup. I also played in the Champions league. I also loved playing on Aberdeen. While on Aberdeen, we won a victory over FC Copenhagen in the UEFA Cup, and I scored two goals. That win pushed Aberdeen through to the last 32 of the competition. More recently on the Colorado Rapids, we won the MLS cup. No one expected us to do it. We were a great team. Those are a few of my best moments.

Do you have any success stories from coaching an athlete?

 

What other sports or activities do you enjoy playing or practicing?

I used to golf a lot, but not so much anymore. I’m currently playing tennis a few times a week.

What is your favorite sports related movie?

I liked Moneyball. I also like Escape to Victory as a soccer movie.

What’s an interesting talent you have or something that someone might not know about you?

Cooking. I’ve been getting better.