SCHUYLKILL HAVEN, Pa. - Women's Soccer player Nia Bronson (Pine Grove, PA / Pine Grove) has spent her offseason working as an assistant soccer coach for West Schuylkill FC Explosion 16U. Back in May, Bronson led her team to the 2023 Epic Tournament Championship held in Bordentown, NJ. The explosion scored a total of 11 goals on their way to the championship.
Bronson, pictured far left, with West Schuylkill FC Explosion 16U
How does it feel to coach a team to a championship? Talk about the experience from a coach's perspective?
It was an amazing experience. I played for West Schuylkill FC when I was younger. Coming back to assistant coach after a few years and being able to pass on the technical training and insightful knowledge of the game from their unique point of view, I feel helped them on the field. Knowing I was once in their shoes helped me build a more trusting relationship with my players.
How long have you been involved in coaching soccer?
This is my first official year being an assistant coach for the WSFC U16 Explosion, I had also helped out the year prior.
What has coaching done for you as a soccer player, do you see the game differently?
Coaching has allowed me to see a different view on the game and has allowed me to see some things differently, including formations, plays and playing styles. I can now use this to aid my team in the future for both this club and for teams I play on in the future.
Do you plan on becoming a coach in the future?
I am continuing to coach with WSFC on the girls U14 Lightning team on their upcoming season that starts this fall.
Give us something that you preach to your kids that Is important for them to succeed?
I always tell my girls to give their all and play their best, but to always have fun too.
Are you guys competing in any upcoming tournaments?
The lightning will play in a fall season and they have their first tournament in November.
Bronson, a first team PSUAC All-Conference selection, as well as a second team USCAA All-American selection, will return to the field with women's soccer on Saturday, August 26th as they take on Muhlenberg University in an away scrimmage. Schuylkill's season opener is set for Friday, September 1st against University of Valley Forge on the road.
