The Connecticut Junior Soccer Association (CJSA) is excited to announce the hiring of Andy Parker as its Grassroots Coaching Coordinator. In his new position, Parker will support grassroots (recreation and competitive) soccer programming while also developing community participation in non-traditional environments throughout the State of Connecticut.
“I am thrilled to return to my roots in Connecticut and join the Connecticut Junior Soccer Association as the Grassroots Coaching Coordinator,” said Parker. “Working with CJSA offers a unique opportunity to merge my love for soccer with my passion for grassroots development. I am eager to contribute to the growth of young players and coaches in my home state, developing a culture of positivity and inclusivity within the soccer community.”
Andy Parker most recently spent three seasons as an assistant coach for the Brown University Men’s Soccer Program. This past fall, he helped in leading Brown to an undefeated conference record and an appearance in the Ivy League Tournament Final. Goalkeeper Hudson Blatteis also thrived under his guidance, with Parker helping him win Ivy League Defensive Player of the Year accolades.
“We are thrilled to have Andy on our team at CJSA,” said Josh Krusewski, Executive Director of the Connecticut Junior Soccer Association. “His roots in Connecticut as a player and coach will be instrumental in providing our recreational and travel coaches with consistent resources and educational opportunities. Andy will play a big role in helping CJSA grow the game in more non-traditional environments such as YMCAs, Boys and Girls Clubs and after-school programs.”
Prior to his time at Brown University, Parker spent nine seasons at the University of Connecticut. While on the staff there, the Connecticut native assisted with recruiting, training sessions and film analysis while also creating a year-round goalkeeper training model. Husky goalkeeper Scott Levene excelled in his system, developing into the top player in the American Athletic Conference (AAC) at his position and leading the AAC in goals-against average (0.77), save percentage (79.2%) and shutouts (8). During his time on campus, Parker saw UConn appear in consecutive NCAA Tournament Quarterfinals (2012, 2013) while also qualifying for the national competition in 2015 and 2018 as well.
Parker, who holds a United Soccer Coaches Advanced National Diploma and USSF C License, earned four letters as a player for Saint Anselm College in New Hampshire. A Northeast-10 Conference All-Rookie Team selection, he started 72 games at Saint Anselm and left the program as its all-time leader in minutes played. The former Northeast-10 All-Academic Team member was also a two-time captain and selected as the 2011-12 Saint Anslem Student-Athlete of the Year. After acquiring his degree in International Business from Saint Anslem, Parker continued his academic pursuits at UConn and earned his Masters in Sports Management.
