Coach


Meet the Coach: Josh Bonnin

 

 Josh Bonnin is a professional soccer coach with over 22 years playing experience at a variety of levels, and ten years coaching experience. He is currently a Head Coach for Brit-Am Soccer Academy and holds a USSF E License.  He expects to complete his USSF D license in 2009.

As a youth, Josh played soccer in the National Capital region for many prestigious clubs including Olney Soccer Club, Potomac Soccer Club and Reston Soccer Club.  The teams he played on won various competitions and titles including
NCSL Division 1, Potomac Memorial Day Tournament, Bethesda Thanksgiving Tournament, and competed for USYSA National Championships ans Super Clubs National Championship.  Josh was a three-year varsity starter at Sherwood High Schoo, playing along side, and against, many current professional players such as Oguchi Onyewu, Landon Donavan and Damarcus Beasley.

Landing an athletic scholarship to Virginia Tech, Josh played soccer for two and a half years before retiring due to injuries. Josh has worked with various coaches during his coaching career including Steve Knapman, Todd Hitt and Alan Kelly. His coaching philosophy is that of a teacher through the use of the Guided Discovery method.

Josh Bonnin's Coaching Philosophy:

 "With the Shamrocks one thing takes precedence over all others, and that is the development of the player, both in terms of soccer ability, and also as a person.  Our goal is as individuals, to improve ourselves a little bit every day. And as a team, to improve a little bit each time we meet. By doing this success and winning will come as a byproduct of improved quality of play."

All teaching and coaching utilizes the Guided Discovery method of posing questions and problems for the students/players to overcome, and to learn from, on their own merit. This philosophy includes the following:

  • Set a clear vision and philosophy for the team (age appropriate).
  • Be a student of the game. constantly evolving as coach and teacher.
  • Foster endless communication between players/coach/parents.
  • Work intelligently and hard today; see results tomorrow.
  • Provide a fun and safe environment.
  • Development will take precedence over results.
  • Develop the four aspects of soccer: Technical; Tactical; Physical; Psychological.
  • Honesty and self-belief; Integrity and desire
  • Passion for the game.
  • Commitment to the players.