Carl Strong

Years in coaching (at BUFC and Overall)

  •30 years Coaching

  •BUFC 6th year

Hometown (Natural-born and Current):

  •Originally from Annandale Va.

  •Lived in Mendham NJ 20 years

  •Currently resides in North Myrtle Beach

How old were you when you started playing soccer and what was it that made you fall in love with it?

I started playing at Annandale Boy’s club at 10 years old.  I loved the fact that the game has a continuous flow unlike other sports.  Because I was energetic, it was a natural fit for me.

What are your greatest team and individual accomplishments in soccer (at club, school and pros levels)?

 • Annandale Boy’s club -  1976 U19 National Championship

 • James Madison University – 1977 Virginia Player of Year

 • Professional Career – drafted into the NASL at age 19 during my sophomore year

 

Professional Soccer Career (NASL)

• Colorado Caribous of the North American Soccer League (1977-1978)

• Atlanta Chiefs of the North American Soccer League (1978-1981)

• Division Champions 1980

• Portland Timbers of the North American Soccer League (1981-1982)

• Ft. Lauderdale Strikers of the North American Soccer League (1982-1983)

• Minnesota Strikers of the North American Soccer League (1983-1984)

Who was the most influential coach you have had in your career and what lessons did they instill in you?

•David Chadwick – Head Coach of Atlanta Chiefs and Ft. Lauderdale Strikers

He gave me the opportunity to succeed because of the belief and confidence that he showed in my abilities.  He was always encouraging me to take risks and challenge myself.

In a few words, how would you describe your coaching philosophy (offense, defense, team strategies)?

My coaching philosophy is very basic, I concentrate on developing each individual players strengths. I coach them to capitalize on those abilities by hard work and commitment.  

Which BUFC team(s) will you be coaching?  I will be Head Coach for both BUFC Girls U-17 Panthers and the Girls U-13 Lightning. I have been coaching at BUFC for six years now.  My time with the club has enabled me to make good friends with coaches, players, and parents alike.  It has provided me with many great memories which I will cherish forever.

What are your goals for the season? (These goals are for both teams)

•Develop them as individual and team players

•Be competitive within their league and at tournaments

•Embrace the passion for the game of soccer

Please include any other info about yourself you wish to share (spouse, kids, pets, nickname, etc.).

•High School Teacher and Coach 25 years

•USSF National B Licensed Coach

•Licensed Soccer Referee

•Personal: Married to Christine with two adult children.  Our daughter Claire is an Occupational Therapist in Chico, California.  Our son, Benjamin (Ben) was captain of the University of Louisville 2015 men’s soccer team.  He is an Assistant Physical Therapist, living and working in Charleston, SC.