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Stephen Hoogerwerf
Associate Head Coach at New Amsterdam Football Club
Professional Background
Stephen Hoogerwerf is a dedicated football coach based in New York City, where he passionately leads and develops programs for athletes at prominent soccer organizations including the New Amsterdam Football Club, Chelsea Piers Soccer Club, and Collegiate School. With a diverse coaching career that reflects his commitment to the sport, Stephen has also lent his expertise to the operations team for New York City Football Club (NYCFC).
Originally hailing from New Orleans, Stephen began his journey in football by learning the intricacies of both playing and coaching within the vibrant soccer community of his home city. His professional career is marked by significant contributions and a deep-rooted desire to give back to the game that has provided him with countless opportunities. His philosophy centers around nurturing young talent and promoting a love for the beautiful game, ensuring that his passion is passed down to future generations of athletes.
Education and Achievements
Stephen's academic background is equally impressive, with a strong focus on Sports Science. He obtained a Bachelor of Science (BS) in Sports Science from LIU Brooklyn, where he honed his understanding of the physiological and psychological principles that underpin athletic performance. Prior to that, he studied Sports Science and Soccer at William Carey College, which equipped him with foundational knowledge essential for a successful coaching career. Additionally, Stephen diversified his skills by pursuing a Diploma in Culinary Arts from the Institute of Culinary Education, showcasing his multifaceted interests and commitment to personal growth.
Throughout his coaching career, Stephen has held several prominent positions in esteemed organizations, each role contributing to his growth as a coach and leader in soccer education. As the Director of Coaching at Chelsea Piers, he has been responsible for developing coaching strategies that enhance player performance and promote teamwork among athletes of all levels. His previous role as the Associate Head Coach at New Amsterdam Football Club allowed him to implement innovative programs that have significantly improved player development.
Stephen's influence in the sport extends beyond his direct coaching roles. He has served as the Head Soccer Coach at Collegiate School, where his leadership inspired young athletes to excel both on and off the field. His contributions to New York Cosmos as a Youth Program Coordinator exemplify his commitment to fostering youth talent and building a solid foundation for aspiring soccer players.
Achievements
Stephen's illustrious career also includes notable stints as a Goalkeeper Coach at both the University of Colorado Boulder and LIU Brooklyn, where he showcased his expertise in specialized training techniques designed to elevate player performance. Additionally, his experience as a Sports Coach at the New Orleans Soccer Academy reflects his passion for nurturing soccer talent from an early age.
Throughout his varied roles, including his time as an Operations Assistant at NYCFC and his ownership of Futsal Brooklyn, Stephen has developed a comprehensive understanding of both the sport and its operational aspects, allowing him to contribute effectively at every level of soccer administration and coaching. His vast expertise and dedication to improving the game are evident in every program he leads, and the impact he has made on the athletes he trains continues to resonate within the soccer community of New York City.
Stephen Hoogerwerf is not only a skilled coach who emphasizes the importance of strategic planning and player development, but he is also a mentor who prioritizes a positive and inclusive atmosphere for all his players. By maintaining a player-first mentality, he fosters an environment that motivates young athletes to hone their skills, embrace teamwork, and develop a lifelong love for soccer. With a background as both a player and a coach, Stephen's dedication to football is unmatched, and he continues to inspire others, creating a lasting legacy in the sport.