HEIDELBERG, Germany - Heidelberg women soccer players had a rare opportunity Sunday to learn from one of the most successful women's soccer coaches in the United States.
University of North Carolina women's soccer coach Anson Dorrance hosted a U15 and U18 girls' soccer clinic at Heidelberg High School.
Over 50 girls from as far away as Italy attended the clinic.
"This was so cool. I mean who gets to do things like this' Getting training from a guy like Coach Anson is probably one of the coolest things that has ever happened to me. Not only did I get to learn a lot, but he's like, a real person," said Heidelberg middle school student Rachel Braun.
U.S. Youth Soccer Europe arranged two sessions for girls 13-18 years old to expose them to stateside coaches, said Wendy Aldcroft, Heidelberg district U.S. Youth Soccer vice president of publicity and marketing.
Anson Dorrance has one of the most successful coaching records in the history of athletics, Aldcroft said. The Tar Heels record under Anson Dorrance is 696-36-22.
Coaches involved applauded the event.
"Having Coach Dorrance, an icon in the sport of soccer who coached Mia Hamm, probably the most famous female soccer player in U.S. history, coach our U.S. Youth Soccer girls teams, is a once in a lifetime opportunity without paying $500 for a camp," said Heidelberg Select President Paul Guelle.
"As a coach I was exposed to a new training style and ideas from one of the best coaches in the world. As a parent it was good to have a better understanding of the opportunities a program like USYS can offer to my soccer player," said TerriLynn Braun USYS Heidelberg U15 girls' coach.
"Most female soccer players dream of just being given the chance to meet Anson Dorrance let alone having the chance to participate in one of his training sessions," said Carrie Scallan, U17 and U13 girls coach and Catawba College division II women's varsity soccer player.
"I think I can speak for all when saying we were honored he took the time to put Heidelberg on his calendar," Scallan added.
Those interested in U.S. Youth Soccer Europe should e-mail usysheidelberg@googlemail.com.
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