NORFOLK, Va. – The Old Dominion women's soccer team hosted their annual Coach Education Night on February 1 as they opened a practice to area youth and high school coaches at the ODU Soccer Complex.
A total of 25 local coaches attended the event that started with indoor presentations from the staff on key topics for the ODU program, the culture and how they develop players technically, tactically, along with athletically.
ODU Associate Head Coach Michelle Barr addresses attendees of Coach Education Night
"This is something that I have always been passionate about; sharing ideas, resources and in general providing coaches with an opportunity to hopefully pick up new ideas. Opening up our program to be a resource and hopefully inspiring some of the coaches working locally with youths is something that I feel privileged to be able to do," said Barr. "It is so enjoying to share and discuss the game and different ways we can work to make the environment great for young players, and allow them to not only improve but genuinely develop a deep love for the sport."
An on-field session followed showing various practices and activities the ODU staff uses throughout the year. Staff was able to answer questions throughout the evening, while the local coaches were able to observe a D1 college level session and the level of intensity the athletes practiced in.
Barr responds to question
"It was so enjoyable to be around such a great group of coaches who are driving the sport of soccer in this area. I think to be in this position we, as college coaches, have a responsibility to give something back to our community and this is just one way I hope we can do that," said Barr.
ODU Associate Head Coach Sam Kirschenbaum talks to attendees of Feb. 1 Coach Education Night