Interview with Coach Andy Boyle

                                 Marietta High School Head Boys Soccer Coach


Proud Accomplishments:

Captain of college squad (Andrew College 95-96)
Open Cup State Champions 00-01, 04-06
Runner-up Region III Championships 01, 05
ADASL Div I Champions 00-01, 03-04
Georgia State Games, Gold Medal


Question: What advice would you give to young players entering high school who want to play soccer for their high school
team?

Do your best every day.  Don’t give up.  Determination and heart go along way in high school soccer.   Try and get as many touches on
the ball outside of school as possible.  Think long term.  You have 4 years to make your mark.

Question: What training would you recommend for a high school player who is dedicated to improving him or her self in the
off season?

Fitness and basic skills.  The less time we have to spend on basic skills, the more time we have to spend on team tactics and more
advanced off the ball movement.

Question: What advice can you give to those athletes who are not as talented as the top players in the state, but want to
get better and compete on the high school level?

Play hard every day.  Players who are willing to learn and get better are assets to most coaches.  We can teach you what to do, but you
have to be willing to learn and try new things.

Question: What special skills do you think a successful coach must possess to lead his or her team during the season?

Successful coaches must be patient.  Also, I believe coaches lead by example.  Successful coaches demonstrate and work with the
players until they can master a skill or technique.

Question: How has being a teacher helped you become a better coach?

Teaching has help with my patience.  I have a better understanding of where the students are coming from and that helps me coach them.

Question: What advice would you give to student athletes who are struggling academically in school?

Academics come first.  Coaches are understanding to your needs, and you need to make the grades.  Take the time to improve your
grades, then worry about soccer.

Question:  To whom or what do you attribute your ability to be a successful high school coach?

I attribute years of hard work.  I played under great coaches growing up that not only taught me how to play, but how to enjoy the game.


What do you love about the game of soccer?

I love the competition and the strategy involved.  Soccer is a thinking man’s game.  I try to play smarter, not harder.

What do you love about coaching high school soccer?

I love interacting with the students and passing on my knowledge and appreciation of the game.  Watching my kids win games they never
thought they could win is the ultimate reward.

Who is your favorite professional soccer team?

I was a Liverpool fan growing up.


Who is your favorite professional soccer player?

Roy Keene!!!

Who is your favorite college soccer team?

I was always partial to UNC

Who taught you the game of soccer?

I have learned more from playing with coaches and professionals than I did growing up.


A Special Thanks to Coach Boyle for all his time and contributions to Georgia High School Soccer. Good Luck to Coach
Boyle and his Blue Devils in the upcoming season.