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AYSO United - Michigan

AYSO United Coach - Paul Kramer



BACKGROUND

Originally born in Grand Rapids, Michigan, I have also lived in Hawaii for a number of years before returning to the mitten state in 2005. I graduated from Seabury Hall preparatory academy in 1992 and finished my academic career while attending Calvin College (University) in 1995. I currently live in Caledonia with my wife Jennifer, and our kids Payton and Mackenzie.

PHILOSOPHY

I passionately believe in nurturing the complete well being of an athlete. Not only developing them into the best players they can be, but also, developing them into the best people they can be. Building an intentional culture of accountability, hard work, loyalty, and selflessness for the betterment of the team. Whether it be in athletics or life, to pass on any knowledge that I have gained unto those who need it. I believe in teaching players to have “Respect for the Game” whether in victory or defeat. This includes their opponents, referees, coaches and teammates. To understand the amount of hard work it takes to achieve team goals. To respect that process. Sports are often a good analogy for the real world; where sometimes results are not fair, but through hard work, perseverance and dedication to the process, good results can come.

EXPERIENCE

Soccer has been a part of my life since I could walk. Being a son of immigrants who loved the game, I was destined to play and have it be a part of my life. My playing career began with AYSO as a youth, then playing varsity for my high school and finishing at Calvin College for a season. I played primarily as a goalkeeper and sometimes at forward. I began coaching extensively when my kids became old enough to play and my passion for coaching grew from there. I have coached for the Caledonia HS Men’s program in years past, and currently am the Head Coach for the Caledonia Women’s Varsity team and Head Coach for the Forest Hills Central Men’s Varsity team.

LICENSES, CERTIFICATION & DIPLOMAS

USSF D license
USC Advanced National Diploma
USC Director of Coaching Diploma
USC Futsal Diploma
USC Goalkeeping Diploma

SOCCER HIGHLIGHT

I think the biggest highlight for me as a soccer fan was being able to watch the 2010 World Cup with my father while he was visiting my family that summer. My dad was a Dutch immigrant, who played semiprofessionally for the Kalamazoo Internationals in the late 50’s. Soccer was his absolute love. Being able to watch the Oranje go on that magical run that summer with him, even though they lost in the final, will always be something special I will remember.

FAVORITE TEAM

Liverpool & The US Men’s National Team

BEST COACHING MEMORY

The first year of our club’s existence, taking my brand new U17G team and winning the Midwest Cup and beating state premiership teams in the process. Amazing experience for those girls, and huge achievement for our fledgling club.

National Partners

Local Partners

Contact Us

AYSO United Michigan

P.O. Box 161 
Hudsonville, Michigan 49426

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