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 six seasons with Lafayette he lead the Leopards to six-straight winning seasons, four-consecutive 10-plus win campaigns, 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 fourth season on the Lafayette coaching staff and his first 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.
Brian Gill:
Lafayette College men’s assistant coach / goalkeeper coach. Brian possesses NSCAA state, regional and national goalkeeper licenses and a USSF "D" coaching license. Brian previously coached at Rider University for three seasons. He spent five seasons on the coaching staff of MatchFit Academy FC and two years worked as an assistant coach and goalie trainer for New Jersey ODP. For more information on Brian Gill refer to his profile at http://goleopards.cstv.com/sports/m-soccer/mtt/gill_brian00.html.
David Korn:
Lafayette College men’s assistant caoch. David holds USSF ’B’ coaching license. David joins Lafayette for his first year in College Hill. David previously served as Director of Coaching at the Foothills futbol Club, the second largest club in Southern Arizona where he oversaw the implementation and education for more than 35 coaches. He was also assistant varsity coach and junior head varsity coach at Salpointe Catholic High School where he helped guide Salpointe to the 5A state finals. For more information on David Korn refer to his profile at http://goleopards.cstv.com/sports/m-soccer/mtt/korn_david00.html.
For more information on playing with a premier team in NHSC please contact:
Tom Davis
Director, Premier Teams Travel Programs
Email: thomas.g.davis@saic.com
