Neil McGuire Biography

Neil McGuire is the Director of Coaching for 1st-8th grade players at the College Soccer Academy. He is also the Head Coach of the University of California, Berkeley Women's Soccer Program, Head Coach of the Region IV ODP 93 age group and Head Coach of the U 15 Mustang Blast. Neil is a USSF 'A' Licensed coach.

McGuire has a proven track record of developing players illustrated by his two previous Division I stops. He served as head coach at Mississippi State University from 2000-03, taking over a program that was just 4-16 the year before his arrival and, within two years, improving the Bulldogs' record by eight-and-a-half games and 13 wins. McGuire averaged nine wins per season at MSU and established school records for overall wins and conference victories during the 2001 season. He was tabbed as the Southeastern Conference Coach of the Year when he guided the Bulldogs to the first-ever women's conference title in Mississippi State athletics, leading his team to a share of the 2001 SEC Western Division championship.

Since his arrival at The University of California Berkeley he has taken his team to a 3rd place finish in the Pac-10 as well as making the NCAA Tournament every season. He has also seen 5 of his players play for either their full National Team or U 23 National Team, as well as his leading scorer score the game winning goal in the U-20 World Cup final for the United States.

Neil, as the Co-founder of The College Soccer Academy, has extensive experience working with collegiate and professional soccer players as well as current and former National team players.

Kacey White Sky Blue (WPS) and US National Team
Kelly Schmedes Boston Breakers (WPS) & Former US National Team
Luisa Marzotto Australian National Team
Elke D’Hollander Belgian National Team
Stacey Tullock Philadelphia (WUSA) and Former US National Team
Kristen Slater Boston Breakers (WUSA)

This is what others have said...

Heather Mitts, USA National Team and 2-Time Olympian:
"I was really excited when Neil told me about creating the College Soccer Academy. Not only because he is a brilliant coach and has so much to offer, but also because I see so many kids these days that are being taught the wrong skills required to get to the next level. To be the best, you have to train with the best. An Academy requires dedication, the willingness to learn and the desire to want to push yourself to be the best you can be. Good luck and have fun!"

Darren C. Treasure, Ph.D. (FIFA Consultant. Chair, USSF Sports Medicine Committee. Director Sport Psychology, National Soccer Coaches Association of America):
Neil McGuire is one of the most talented young collegiate soccer coaches in the United States. His record as a head coach at various educational institutions shows his ability to optimize the potential of players of all standards. His passion for soccer and his understanding of the game’s fundamentals are benchmarks of his programs as is his commitment to the optimal development of each individual player.

At the youth level, Neil’s focus on age appropriate training will ensure that every young player experiences the correct amount of challenge to ensure their enjoyment and commitment to the soccer experience. Although I have been fortunate to work with Neil for a number of years and could speak to his coaching ability at the elite level, I would like to provide him with my highest possible recommendation – I would, without hesitation, place my eight year old daughter in his program knowing that she would not only have fun and develop as a soccer player, but also that she would be in a safe, developmentally appropriate learning environment.

Kelly Schmedes, Former US National Team, All-American at the University of Texas, U 19 World Cup Winner:
"I've had the honor to work with Neil not only as one of his players but along side of him as an assistant coach. He is one of the top coaches in the nation who has an amazing passion for the game and for the players he developes. As a player, Neil has helped me improve my technique and skill on the ball in order to play at the highest level. He has so much knowledge of the game and the training necessary to reach your potential, but has the unique ability to communicate that knowledge easily and effectively that enables players of any level to understand the game and enhance their skills."

Jessi Moore, Freshman All-American - Mississippi State:
"I've been fortunate to have some great coaches in my career, but none compare to Neil McGuire. Not only does Neil have the ability to take your technical skills to the next level, your tactical game will improve beyond belief. I learned so much about not only my position at forward, but about the general game of soccer positioning and strategy. He has the knowledge and the desire to make you the best player that you can be, as well as understanding the psychological aspects of being an elite level athlete. I can honestly say that playing for Neil has made me a better player and person."