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Academy Director: Beth Sandlin
Beth has been with NWSC since 2018. Her focus is on teaching fundamentals while creating a fun atmosphere that keeps kids on the pitch. That’s because creating opportunities is her passion.
“My hometown didn’t have a girls’ soccer team, so I played volleyball throughout most of my high school career. Even when I went to college, they didn’t have a soccer team at that time – although they recruited me for it.”
Beth US Soccer's National D license candidate and Head Coach of the 2013 Deception FC Girls team.
First Kicks Coach: Monica Grant
U6/U8 Coach: Clarissa Gee
Clarissa has seen first-hand how an academy program can develop soccer skills. She enrolled her daughter, saw her skills grow, and joined as a coach in 2021 to provide similar outcomes for other families.
“I knew the academy program would be a great opportunity to help the kids in the community develop a love for soccer and confidence on the field,” Clarissa said. “Not only has it helped children from all backgrounds and abilities have fun, but it has also refined how I see myself as a coach.”
Clarissa also coaches within the Rec program.
U10/U12 Coach: Kerry Reed
Kerry is a licensed nurse who specializes in behavior health. He’s been involved with recreational soccer in Island County since 2016, serving as an assistant coach and mentor. He joined as the club’s U10/U12 coach in December 2020.
When playing soccer, Kerry was either a midfielder or a defender, which is why his passion is teaching kids formation lessons, ball control, and pitch awareness.
“One of the best things I see as a coach is the ‘click’ that happens when the pieces connect for young players,” said Kerry. “Once you reach that moment, when kids start trusting what they can do, you know you’ve made a difference.”
Kerry also coaches within the Rec program.
U13+ Coach: Graeme Sandlin
Graeme has coached with North Whidbey SC since 2018 in various capacities. He brings 30+ years of soccer experience to the club as a player, coach, and referee. His goal is to keep the game simple while focusing on individual foundations and fundamentals.
He attended Mount Mercy University in Cedar Rapids, IA. After spending the eight years rehabbing his knee, he earned tryouts with Toronto and San Jose before retiring as a player to raise a family.
Graeme holds US Soccer's National D license candidate. He is also the club's Vice President, DFC GK coach, and Head Coach of the 2007 and 2009 Deception FC boys teams.
Leadership Program Assistants:
One of the unique aspects of the NWSC academy structure is that we encourage our older players to work with and practice alongside our youngest players. This opportunity allows them to reinforce the skills they’ve developed while passing their knowledge and perspectives to others to help the game grow here on Whidbey Island.
To qualify for the leadership program, players must have either qualified or tested through our U13+ and Advanced curriculum. That includes running practice sessions with their peers under coach guidance and supervision.