Cape Coral, Florida, June 6 2016 – The Florida Gulf Coast Dutch Lions FC is proud to announce Menno Vermeer as the new Academy Manager. FGCDL FC sat down with Menno to discuss his new position.
Can you introduce yourself?
"I’m Menno Vermeer, I am 21 years old and have been working for the Florida Gulf Coast Dutch Lions FC since last season. Last year I came in as Academy Coach but I was also the Community Manager, mainly organizing (free) soccer clinics for schools and being at several community events with our coaches. For the upcoming season, I will be the FGCDL FC Academy Manager."
Where are you from?
"I was born in Haarlem in the Netherlands."
Where did you play by yourself?
"I started playing soccer when I was 7 years old. My first club is called VSV. When I moved to a different city I played for DEM in Beverwijk. I got into coaching early and managed to get my UEFA C and B license already."
What teams did you coach last season?
"Last season I coached the Florida Gulf Coast Dutch Lions FC U8 and U15 Girls teams."
What was your best moment of last season?
"To see that all the teams and players improve a lot, both on and off the pitch. Of course we want to have good results with all our teams, but before you can have a good result you have to grow as a player and as a team. I am really looking forward to next season and pick up from where we left this year!"
What is your goal as a Academy Manager with the Florida Gulf Coast Dutch Lions FC?
"My goal is to make the Dutch Lions FC one of the best organized soccer clubs in the region where players, teams and parents enjoy our training and games, but also want to train and play on the highest level. Players will increase their soccer skills and game tactics but also need to work very hard to be one of the best in their age groups in the region. As Academy manager it is my goal to have everything organized very professionally. During the tryouts I have seen many new faces but also a lot of familiar faces from last year. The club is certainly growing which means we are doing things right."