The New Jersey Youth Soccer Olympic Development Program (ODP) officially announced today that Lou Mignone and Brendan Murphy have been named ODP Coaching Directors.
“Lou Mignone and Brendan Murphy bring a combination of experience and energy to the ODP Coaching staff,” said James Galanis, New Jersey ODP Technical Director. “Their passion for player development is evident. ODP will benefit from these two leaders who will effectively overlook the development of our teams and individuals.”
Mignone holds a U.S. Soccer National A-License, National Youth License and United Soccer Coaches Premier Diploma. Coaching youth players for the past 30 years, he has functioned in the capacity of ODP Technical Advisor and serves as a Coaching School Instructor and TOPSoccer Area Coordinator for New Jersey Youth Soccer. He is also the Director of Coaching and Player Development at West Orange United FC.
“It is a tremendous honor to serve the talented players, highly qualified coaches and supportive families of this top-notch program,” said Mignone. “The staff and I look forward to facilitating a first-rate training environment with attention to the details that foster continued growth and development of the participants.”
Murphy is entering his second year with New Jersey ODP, having served as the 2004 Boys head coach last season. He currently holds his USSF-D License and is pursuing his USSF-C License. As a player, Murphy is a former member of the Flagler College Men’s Soccer Team, New York Red Bull Youth Academy and Match Fit Academy.
“I am very excited to accept this position, and I look forward to the next era of the New Jersey ODP program,” said Murphy. “Working with the 2004 and 2005 teams is a unique opportunity to help shape the development of this highly talented group.”
NJ Youth Soccer is a National State Association body under U.S. Soccer, with U.S. Youth Soccer serving as the guiding leadership of ODP. Established in 1977, ODP was the first program in the country that was created to identify potential youth national team players. ODP players begin initially at the local sector before progressing to the state, regional and possibly national levels. By playing with like-talented athletes, ODP enables players to advance more rapidly in their personal development. Additionally, ODP players receive more opportunities to be scouted by college coaches.
To contact New Jersey ODP, please email odp@njyouthsoccer.com. Also make sure to like the New Jersey ODP Facebook page and follow NJ Youth Soccer on social media: @NJYouthSoccer
