July's D.C. United Coaches Association Coach of the Month is Gregg Shimp. Shimp is the head coach of the SMU Revolution, a U-12 Boys team, competing in Div. 5 of the National Capital Soccer League. The Revolution has enjoyed great success over the past two years, finishing the Fall 2003 season as Maryland Premier Soccer League champions in the U-11 age group. They moved to NCSL Div. 6 in the Spring 2004 season, finishing third, and captured the Whitewater Cup Challenge title in the U-11 Silver division.
Shimp grew up playing soccer in central Ohio, and has been involved in soccer in some capacity throughout his life. In addition to his work as an experimental test pilot for Bell Helicopter, he has coached in the St. Mary's Youth Soccer organization for eight years at various levels. It is a family affair, with Shimp's wife, Nena, acting as assistant coach for the U-12 Revolution and head coach for the U-15 SMU Revolution.
In addition to soccer success, Shimp has several players who excel in other sports and extracurricular activities. Most of the team is involved either in the Boy Scouts or their church youth groups, and three participate in the school band.
In coaching his team, Shimp stresses a team concept over individual success. His practices strive to teach his players that success on the soccer field can be best achieved when they work together.
"I try to teach the kids the sport of soccer as a full team game," said Shimp. "It is my hope that as these players progress in their soccer development, they will learn to be good teammates as well as good soccer players."
To nominate an individual for recognition as the D.C. United Coaches Association Coach of the Month, or to bring your team to a D.C. United match, log on to www.dcunited.com or call 202-587-5000.
