All aspects of the Training Program are directed by Alan Merrick
The premier soccer development program in Minnesota, offering camps, clinics and programs year-round. The Alan Merrick Soccer Training LLC. is led by renowned coach Alan Merrick. Alan Merrick came to the United States in 1976 to play for the Minnesota Kicks of the North American Soccer League. He played professionally for 17 years with English Club, West Bromwich Albion, In North America he played for the Minnesota KICKS as team Captain and Community Leader. Alan conducted clinics throughout his tenure with the Minnesota KICKS speading the message and exposure of the Worlds Game. Alan spent many hours and days on the road conducting assemblies at High Schools, Middle Schools, and Grade Schools exposing the youth of the State to this new sport called "Soccer". The KICKS were one of the top teams to play in the NASL drawing multiple crowds in excess of 50,000 at the old Metropolitan Stadium ( now the Mall of Amerrica ) the KICKS went on thru 1982 averaging over 30,000 crowds for three consecutive seasons. When the KICKS were taken over by non State resdident owners the Club floundered and was soon dissolved. While always maintaining a residence in Minnesota, Alan went on to play for the Los Angeles Aztecs, San Jose Earthquakes, Toronto Blizzard, and Team America. Merrick was nicknamed the 'Iron Man' for his consecutive minutes played for the KICKS. Alan finished his career ranked as the player with the 11th highest minutes played in the North American Soccer League. Merrick also played on the USA Olympic team in Training and also recieved an International "Cap" playing for the Full US National Team in 1983. Alan then returned to Minnesota from Washing DC to undertaking five years as head coach of the Minnesota Strikers in the Major Indoor Soccer League. He was instrumental in developing well attended camp and player improvement programs throughout Minnesota and the Midwest, taking the best soccer training into North and South Dakota, Wisconsin, and Iowa. Merrick coaches the University of Minnesota Men’s Club Team, 2009 marks his eleventh year at the helm, Alan has coached both the Minnesota Men’s and Women's State Select Team for several years and in different decades.
Alan holds the highest Coaching Certification offered aound the World, including the English Football Association Badge, USSF 'A' License (30 years) Canadian 'A' License (28 years) National Soccer Coaches of America Association,'NSCAA Premier License' (10 years)
Our club training is designed to benefit all levels of Club programs. Developing clubs can use our recreational and specialty camp programs to develop younger players preparing for traveling play. Established clubs can use try out / evaluatons and our traveling training to move teams to the next level. Please feel free to call and discus your clubs developmental plan with us.
The academy offers NSCAA coaching courses for varying levels of coaching experience. Whether you're just starting or are a veteran of many seasons, you can benefit from these courses.
Camps
The academy offers a variety of camp options for all types of players. Our dedicated staff delivers a curriculum crafted by Alan Merrick from decades of experience as a player and coach at the highest level of the game.
Offseason Training
The NSCSoccerAcademy offers the best in year round training. Whatever age or level of player we have a program to fit your need. If you are looking for something special and can't find it please, contact us about a private lesson with one of our great soccer coaches.
Private lessons
Players and coaches, you now have the ability to learn from one of Minnesota's best. Put over 40 years of professional playing and coaching experience to work for you. Alan has helped develop many of Minnesota's top athletes for the last 30+ years. Add your name to the list of Minnesota's elite soccer players and coaches.
Coaches
The NSCSoccerAcademy trainers and coaching staff all have over two years experience with the Academy method and a minimum NSCAA Regional (USSF E equivalent) Diploma.