Strong Kick Off For United Soccer 1

For immediate release 24 January 2001

STRONG KICK OFF FOR UNITED SOCCER 1

Soccer is set to soar in 2001 with United Soccer 1, one of seven federations set up nationwide by Soccer New Zealand.

United Soccer 1 was established in November 1999 and covers all club and representative teams in the Far North, Northland, Harbour/Rodney and Waitakere.

To assist with their aim to grow and develop the game of soccer throughout this region, United Soccer 1 has recently appointed an impressive coaching team featuring some big names in soccer.

Scotsman Keith Pritchett has joined the Federation as Director of Coaching, overseeing the development and implementation of the coaching strategy throughout the region.

In this new role Mr Pritchett will also be responsible for conducting coaching courses, increasing the number of coaches and developing coaching quality. He will provide support for all coaches throughout United Soccer 1 and will be available to clubs and schools within the region as a training resource.

Mr Pritchett brings with him 14 years experience, including over 250 English Football League (all four divisions) and Cup games, and a number of prestigious sporting awards, such as three consecutive years as New Zealand Coach of the Year and Auckland Coach of the Year (four times).

In addition, Mr Pritchett was the New Zealand All Whites Assistant Coach for a number of years before becoming National Coach for the 1996 and 1997 seasons. He was also the Waitakere City Senior team coach for eight years (four time National League Winners).

Joining Mr Pritchett on the United Soccer 1 coaching team are soccer heavyweights and former All Whites Ron Armstrong, Brian Turner and Billy Harris.

Mr Armstrong, Mr Turner and Mr Harris have all played professionally in Europe and the United Kingdom, and have extensive playing and coaching experience in the National and Northern Premier Leagues.

Mr Armstrong and Mr Turner will coach the senior men's team, while Mr Harris will coach the senior women's team.

United Soccer 1 Chairman, Kevin Simms, says the new coaching team will contribute immensely to increasing the skill base within the Federation's reach.

"Keith, Ron, Brian and Billy all offer extensive knowledge and a host of excellent skills, particularly in the areas of junior development and the coaching of elite players. We're really looking forward to a fresh focus on this crucial aspect of soccer," says Mr Simms.

Registrations for the 2001 season begin in February. For further information on United Soccer 1 please visit www.unitedsoccer1.org.nz.

ends

For further information please contact

Graeme Perigo Joanna Hill
Director Ph: 09 979 2018
United Soccer 1 Mobile: 025 595 195
Ph: 09 415 4610
Mobile: 021 676 067

© Scoop Media