In the first weeks of July 2024, Winning Soccer Skills was buzzing with excitement as our Academy Director, Rick van Hoeven, took on the task of preparing two international football stars: Pedro Soma and Cris Ilis. This intensive training period showcased our commitment to nurturing elite talent and underscored the global reach of our academy.
Pedro Soma: Ready for the Concacaf Tournament
Pedro Soma, a promising talent, was gearing up for the Concacaf tournament in Mexico with the USA U20 team. Under Rick’s expert guidance, Pedro’s training focused on honing his technical skills, enhancing his tactical awareness, and optimizing his physical conditioning. The sessions were meticulously designed to prepare Pedro for the high-pressure environment of international competition. Rick’s experience and personalized coaching ensured that Pedro entered the tournament with confidence and readiness, poised to make a significant impact for his team.
Cris Ilis: Pre-Season Preparation for FC Basel U19
Simultaneously, Rick also worked in Switzerland with Cris Ilis, who was preparing for the start of his pre-season with FC Basel U19. Cris’s training program emphasized improving his stamina, strength, and agility, essential for a demanding pre-season schedule. Rick’s tailored approach included intensive drills, strategic play sessions, and mental resilience training, ensuring that Cris was in peak form to excel with FC Basel U19. This preparation period was crucial for Cris as he aimed to secure his place and make a strong impression in the upcoming season.
