About Coach Bastiaan

In my early 20s, I began coaching, driven by my passion for the sport and the desire to share the unique approach of Dutch soccer. In 2014, I founded the Dutch Soccer School LA to teach children the fundamentals of Total Football, believing that an American coach might not impart the sport as well as someone with my background. Over six years, I taught soccer to children aged 2.5 to 8, fostering their development until the pandemic in 2020. Additionally, I served as a coach for middle school girls and boys at Milken Community School for three years, leading them to their first-ever school cup.

Beyond my coaching experience, I am also a seasoned educator with over 10 years of classroom experience and five years of leading outdoor nature adventures. I bring a deep understanding of how to connect with young people, inspire their passion for soccer, and build their confidence both on and off the field. I am excited to bring my dedication to the beautiful game and my commitment to holistic development to my new role at SoCal Youth, where I look forward to nurturing the next generation of soccer talent.

Soccer Coaching Background and Experience

In my early 20s, I transitioned into coaching, driven by a passion to share the unique Dutch soccer philosophy. In 2014, I founded the Dutch Soccer School LA to teach children the fundamentals of Total Football. My belief that an American coach might not impart the sport as authentically as someone from the birthplace of this philosophy motivated me to start my academy. Over six years, I taught children aged 2.5 to 8, nurturing their skills and development until the pandemic halted the program in 2020. Additionally, I spent three years as a coach for both middle school girls and boys at Milken Community School, leading them to their first-ever school cup victory.

Teaching and Holistic Development

Beyond the soccer field, I am also a seasoned educator with over 10 years of classroom experience and five years of leading outdoor nature adventures. This diverse background gives me a unique perspective on how to connect with young players and build their confidence both on and off the field. My approach focuses not only on the technical aspects of soccer but also on fostering personal growth, teamwork, and a love for the game in each child I work with.

Joining SoCal Youth Sports

I am thrilled to bring my dedication to the beautiful game and my commitment to holistic development to my new role at SoCal Youth Sports. I look forward to nurturing the next generation of soccer talent, sharing my passion for Total Football, and contributing to the growth of youth soccer in Southern California.

For parents looking for a Total Football soccer school, my coaching approach offers a unique and enriching experience for young athletes, ensuring they develop the technical skills and love for the game that will stay with them for a lifetime