Cape Coral, January 24, 2018 - Florida Gulf Coast Dutch Lions FC is happy to announce that Mark Mcilroy is joining the 2018 coaching staff. Mark is originally from Scotland and brings a lot of professional (European) experience to the club. FGCDL FC had a few questions for Mark:
FGCDL FC: Who is Mark Mcilroy?
I am Mark and I am from Glasgow (Scotland). I have been living in Fort Myers since July 2017 with my son and wife. For the past five years I've actually been working in Afghanistan as a Fire Alarm Engineer. I am 32 years old and have a huge passion for soccer and fitness. Besides my coaching degree I am also on my way to obtain my Personal Training license and Crossfit level 1 license.
FGCDL FC: What is your experience as a soccer player and as a soccer coach?
I have been playing and coaching soccer for over 12 years. I played with Clyde FC in Scotland, a professional club that plays in the Scottish First Division. I was with the club for over 6 years where I got my Level 2 and 3 for coaching in Scotland, and helped coach the U8 and U10 teams. I then played professionally with Falkirk FC and semi professionally with Stenhousemuir FC. I participated in many tournaments and games with Firstpoint USA where I successfully gained scholarship offers at multiple colleges. Sadly, due to personal reasons, I never made the trip across to the US and missed the opportunity of my scholarship chance.
FGCDL FC: What teams will you be coaching?
I will be assisting Davy with the U12 girls team and I will be one of the coaches for the Lion Cubs Program. I am really looking forward to this opportunity and from what I seen in my first practices with the girls it's going to be a great season.
FGCDL FC: What are your expectations for this season for both yourself and your teams?
My main goal with all the players and teams is to put 100% focus on their development, both as individuals and as a team. Raise their awareness of the game and help them understand why we do the things we do. But most of all I want players to have fun! I want to be the best coach I can be for the club and want to keep developing myself as a coach so I can strive to provide the best opportunity and training to all the players.
FGCDL FC: When can we see you on the pitch?
You can see me on the field at training on Monday's, Tuesday's and Thursday's from 5.30 - 8.45 pm. I'll be sure to introduce myself and look forward to meeting everyone associated at the Club.
We as an Orange Family wish Mark the best of luck!