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