NHSC defines their boys Premier teams between the ages of U-15 through U-18. The boys compete in Mid-Atlantic Premier Soccer (MAPS). In most cases, each team is named the NHSC Magic and are coached and trained by the Lafayette College Men’s Soccer coaching staff. Other professional coaches may train and coach Premier Teams with appropriate credentials and associated coaching experience.
What does it mean to be a “premier-level” team?
According to the MAPS website, teams should be highly competitive and prepared to make a substantial commitment in terms of time, resources and ability to travel. The main ingredient here is commitment. The following criteria are used to determine premier level teams:
- The PLAYERS interested in this level of play are dedicated and intend to advance to the next level.
- The COACHES at this level are highly qualified.
- The TEAMS train and play during most of the calendar year.
- The SCHEDULE is aggressive and teams are capable of providing opponents a consistent competitive experience.
Mid-Atlantic Premier Soccer (MAPS)
MAPS is a flight designation used by Central Jersey Youth Soccer Association (CJYSA). CJYSA is a member of the New Jersey Youth Soccer Association, the state organization affiliated with Region 1 and USYSA (United States Youth Soccer Association). MAPS Flights are made up of many of the top teams in the region, and are meant for teams that are ready to compete at a higher level of competency.
For more information on CJYSA and MAPS use the following link:
NHSC Schedule for Premier teams
A typical schedule for these teams follows:
Practice twice per week between mid-November and mid-December.
Practice twice per week between mid-January and the end of June.
Play approximately six tournaments including college showcases between late November and the end of June. At times, these tournaments may require extensive travel and a commitment of three to four days. The quality of the tournament the team is accepted to is partially based on the their record against competitive teams and past tournament performance.
Play 6 to 10 games in the Spring season.
Each team applies to the NJYS National Championship Bracket.
NHSC Player Commitment
The goal is to roster 16 field players and 2 keepers for each team. NHSC looks for a commitment from their premier players. This commitment includes the time allocated for practices, games, state cup, and tournaments. There is a commitment for travelling not only within the state but also outside the state.
Coaching Staff
The North Hunterdon Magic Premier teams are coached and trained by the Lafayette College men’s soccer staff. Dennis Bohn, Lafayette College men’s head coach, works with NHSC Director, Player Development in positioning the Magic Premier teams to play at the next level. In Dennis Bohn’s eight seasons with Lafayette he lead the Leopards to eight-straight winning seasons, a pair of Patriot League championships and two NCAA Tournament berths. His staff trains and coaches the Magic Premier teams.
Bryan Laut:
Lafayette College men’s assistant head coach / recruiting coordinator. Bryan holds USSF National “B” and Youth coaching licenses. Bryan Laut enters his sixth season on the Lafayette coaching staff and his third as assistant head coach/recruiting coordinator. Bryan previously served as head men’s coach for three seasons at Assumption College. Bryan coached the first FC Magic team under NHSC for four years. During their U18 year Bryan coached them to the NJ State Cup finals. For more information on Bryan Laut refer to his profile at http://goleopards.cstv.com/sports/m-soccer/mtt/laut_bryan00.html.
Maciej Sliwinski:
Lafayette College men’s assistant coach / goalkeeper coach. Maciej joins Lafayatte for his first year on College Hill. Maciej previously coached at St. John's University for two seasons. While at St. John's, he earned his Master's Degree in Sports Management. For more information on Maciej Sliwinski refer to his profile at http://goleopards.cstv.com/sports/m-soccer/mtt/sliwinski_maciej00.html.
For more information on playing with a premier team in NHSC please contact:
Karl Reed
Director, Premier Teams Travel Programs
Email: kreed1st@embarqmail.com
