It’s been a mere two weeks since being announced as Sporting Kansas City’s Academy Affiliate Technical Director, but former U.S. Men's National Team player Desmond Armstrong is already logging the miles. Last weekend marked Armstrong’s first visit to a Sporting Club Network Academy Affiliates as he made his way north to Sporting St. Croix. During his time in Minneapolis, Armstrong had the opportunity to work with a variety of players, coaches, and administrators within the club.
“Desmond arrived and was able to get right into it,” said Sporting St. Croix Director of Coaching Nathan Klonecki. “After touring the facilities, Desmond led a training session with our U11 girls and U13/U14 boys Academy teams. His sessions had a lot of the same, great activities used with Sporting Kansas City’s Academy and senior team.
“Desmond also had the opportunity to meet with our board and coaching staff. They really enjoyed getting an insight into what Sporting KC does on a day-to-day basis.”
Sporting St. Croix players made the most of their time with Armstrong, soaking up his insights and instruction.
“It was a lot of hard work, but we enjoyed it,” said St. Croix Academy player Jake Matthews. “We were able to get a feel for how Sporting Kansas City trains and how we’ll train in future.”
With Armstrong’s first visit in the books, it was time to head back south and meet with Sporting Kaw Valley. While in Lawrence, Kansas, he worked with Sporting Kaw Valley’s U14 boys and U18 girls on topics tailored to the club’s needs. Proper shooting technique, 1v1’s and 2v2’s, taking positive first touches and proper shape while in possession were the main points of interest.
“It was an incredible experience for our coaches and players to be instructed by Desmond,” said Sporting Kaw Valley Director of Coaching Colby Williams. “He has an amazing presence and a way with the players. His enthusiasm was a big hit and you could really tell he loves working with youth players.”
As Armstrong continues to visit Academy Affiliates, the unique relationship between Sporting Kansas City and youth players around the country continues to deepen. With growth of the game and player development being the ultimate goals, Armstrong is able to bring Sporting Kansas City’s philosophies to the local level.
“He took the time to meet with our coaches and get feedback as to how Sporting Kansas City can best help us improve as a club,” Williams said.
Armstrong’s upcoming visits include a trip back north to Sporting Iowa, as well as a visit to Sporting Wichita Rojos. To stay up-to-date with the Sporting Club Network, be sure to follow on Twitter, Facebook and YouTube.
<
