RICHMOND, Va. – (Wednesday, July 27, 2022) – The Richmond Kickers are pleased to announce the promotion of Julian Khalili to Zone One Coordinator. The Zone One Coordinator in collaboration with the club’s program directors will be responsible for the development and oversight of a consistent player development identity for all Zone One players (U6 through U12 age groups).
"I have a passion for learning how to create training environments that maximize player learning and enjoyment” said Khalili. “I am looking forward to continuing the hard work we have already begun in the worthwhile endeavor of creating a shared identity for our Zone 1 players, coaches, and families”.
Khalili’s day to day role will consist of supporting Zone 1 directors, coaches, and players by co-developing and overseeing the Zone 1 Games Based Methodology which includes an associated training session library with video footage, and practice guidelines. Along with providing those resources, he will host both in-person and online coaches meetings to discuss the Zone 1 Methodology and will provide support throughout the season as it is implemented. In addition to these roles, he will continue to coach teams within our Travel soccer program.
The club's ultimate objective is to create practice environments that develop a “Kickers Player” to help them become:
- Masters of the ball
- Adaptive movers with and without the ball
- Highly competitive
- Problem solvers
- Team focused (integrating the Kickers values of REACT)
“Julian has proven to be a valuable addition to our club and is the perfect fit for this new position,” commented Leigh Cowlishaw, Richmond Kickers Youth Club Executive Director. “He has spent significant time researching and developing relationships with various leaders in the fields of motor learning, skill adaptation, session design, and athlete motivation. We are looking forward to developing this foundation for long term player development as well as the positive impact it will make across Zone One”.
Khalili currently holds a USSF “C” License and is in the process of applying for his “B”, he has earned a United Soccer Coaches Advanced National Diploma, and Futsal Level 1 Diploma. He plans on working toward an “A” License and has the aspiration of earning a PHD in the fields of research he is so passionate about.
Julian has been coaching for close to 8 years, formerly as a director at Dynamo Soccer Club, and more recently as an assistant coach for Richmond United Boys. His playing career is highlighted by his time at Randolph College, where he played in 2011-2015, and appeared in 3, Old Dominion Athletic Conference tournament finals during his time.
He is a lifelong advocate for positive and meaningful change in the world of youth soccer.
Welcome to the club Julian!