WASA Eagles FC Trainers are led by Rob Smith, a local educator and retired professional soccer player. Rob grew up playing soccer in Wilmington, DE (battling his older brother, Eric). As a HS Parade All-American, he went on to play his college ball at the University of South Carolina leading the Gamecocks to the National Championship game in 1994 (losing however to the University of Virginia). During his time at the University of South Carolina, he traveled the world with the Under 20 US National Team (culminating in the 1993 World Championships in Australia) and with the Under 23 US National Team (culminating in the 1996 Olympics). After the 1996 Olympics in Atlanta, he joined the Columbus Crew (drafted earlier in 1996) and played 4.5 seasons with the Crew (in over 100+ games). Following his career with the Columbus Crew, Rob finished his degree at USC (in Physical Education) and traveled back to Columbus, OH to teach Physical Education with Xenos Christian Schools. In 2004-5 Rob attended the Ohio State University as a graduate assistant to attain a Masters in Sport and Exercise Education. Rob currently serves in the community as a Physical Educator with Worthington City Schools (Liberty Elementary School) and as Director of Player Development with the WASA Eagles FC. Rob is active coaching (and running around) with his family as well – Keira, Keegan, Ryan, and wife, Tracey.
Rob staffs former players who have a dual passion in the sport of soccer AND in developing character in children. Alumni from our Soccer Development Staff include: Brian Maisonneuve (former US U17 Assistant National Team coach and current assistant at Indiana University) and Ross Paule (current director of the Memphis Rush). During their time playing with the Columbus Crew, Brian and Ross started their coaching careers with WASA Eagles FC. Currently, Duncan Oughton (New Zealand international and Columbus Crew veteran) aids Rob in overseeing the U-13 and above age groups (known as Classics Eagles FC). Other Crew players and local soccer products round out the staff. The Soccer Development Staff is committed to building relationships (with coaches, players, and parents) that will allow EACH player to become the best they can be (in soccer AND life).
Information on our Growth and Development (GDA) Academy can be found here!
Program and Staff- Director of Player Development
Rob Smith, WASA Eagle Director of Player Development since January 2004, has an extensive player, instructor, and youth mentor background... - Soccer Development Staff Bios
Soccer Development Staff Bios - Letter to Staff
- Understanding Soccer
Basic Technique & Knowledge Checklist - Sports Med
Fifty percent of injuries sustained by younger athletes playing organized sports can be avoided if the athlete was properly conditioned to play his or her game... - Quotable Quotes
Quotes from Legendary UCLA Basketball Coach, John Wooden and more
