Director of Coaching
Matt Carver,
Matt has over 20 years of soccer playing experience and 16 years of coaching experience. A 1990 graduate of Urbandale High School(UHS), Matt grew up participating on volunteer coached soccer teams, while also having the opportunity to play both football and basketball. He does not believe a player should specialize in any sport at a young age unless that is the child's strong desire, and that players should never feel compelled to specialize. Matt is a strong believer that fundamentals, a team attitude, respectfulness to coaches/parents and fellow players, practice (organized and especially informal), and giving 110% effort, are the keys to development as a soccer player. Having lived in Germany for 3 1/2 years, and played soccer there for 3 years on a club team, it is Matt's belief that the lag in player development in the United States is the result of too much focus on organized practices and games, as well as the cost prohibitive nature of the soccer system in many communities. Instead, players need to learn to love the game, find opportunities to practice on their own, and play the sport with friends in their neighborhood or community. Matt is a believer that Level 1 & 2 (f/k/a "select") as well as Level 3 (f/k/a "recreational") players should learn to compete and respect the game. Never hesitate to contact Matt with questions, or to offer your own thoughts on soccer development ideas. Matt's telephone number is (c) 515-689-1213.
Coaching Background:
- Has coached both co-ed and girls teams
- 16 years of soccer coaching experience
- Iowa Soccer Association D Professional License
- Has also coached youth basketball for both boys and girls
Playing Background:
- Started over 75 games during a 3-year period for a German club team (1995-1998)
- 4-year varsity starter for UHS 3-year
- 1st Team All-Conference player Co-captain and Team MVP of UHS's first undefeated team in 1990
- UHS career awards included: Team Co-Captain, Team MVP, Most Valuable Defensive Player, Most Valuable Fullback, Best Newcomer, Hustle Award, Sportsmanship Award, and Spirit Award
