Kristi S.

I had my first year as an assistant coach at Worcester State. Previously I spent two summers training youth soccer in Frisco, Texas. My first experience as an assistant was mostly related to training the goalkeepers. Every practice was a learning process and I tried to introduce new drills and methods from well-known goalkeeper coaches at pro-levels. At the same time, I was only involved in working with individual players in technical and endurance drills as well as free-kick walk throughs after practice.

At a collegiate level I have played for Wayland Baptist in NAIA, one of the best teams in the league during 2017-2019. After there I transferred at Worcester State, where I won a conference the last year. Originally from Albania, I have trained in one of the best academies in the region and scouted by several acknowledged coaches. Having a certain experience in two countries, even though without making it as a pro, has helped me understand soccer at different levels, but what's more important being able to know what way of playing is more effective. Soccer can be more technical in Europe, but in the US players do not lack the IQ and intelligence to be at the same level if not better.

Depending on the age of player, I try to program the training practice in way which will enhance the physical and technical abilities of the player, without being repetitional and having the player enjoy working with and without the ball. No matter the position, every player possesses a certain amount of capacity when it comes to soccer IQ and this is achieved through practices that involve different aspects of the game and having the player work on its weaknesses and unveiling their potential.