Eagan High School's New Soccer Coach Brings Bevy of Experience

new soccer coach is a "legend", in the words of EHS Athletic Director Sandra Setter.

Late last week, Setter announced that the high school hired lifelong soccer devotee and retired professional player Alan Merrick to serve as the head of the school's boys soccer program.

The program was left leaderless earlier this year, after . No formal police charges have yet been filed against him.

Merrick, a native of Selly Oak, England, brings decades of soccer experience to his position as the high school's new head soccer coach. The now-retired professional soccer player got his start in the English Football Association and represented his country in the 1968 Junior World Cup, where he played against youth teams from Russia and Bulgaria.

In the 1970s and 1980s, Merrick played stints with numerous professional soccer clubs in the United States, including the now-defunct Minnesota Kicks, San Jose Earthquakes and Los Angeles Aztecs.

His coaching career began with the Minnesota Strikers in the 1980s. Merrick has also served as a coach for the University of Minnesota's Men's Club team and a director of coaching for the Lakeville Soccer Club.

Merrick said his friendship with EHS girls soccer coach Mark Obarski influenced his decision to take the position. Eagan already has a "quality" program, Merrick said, but he intends to bolster not only the players' on-the-field skills, but also their integrity, work ethic and mindset.

“It’s very simple; we’re going to have a great time, the players are going to learn and I will make the environment conducive for them to produce their best qualities in skill, determination and sportsmanship," Merrick said. "This is an educational institution and we’re looking for great student athletes, and I expect that from the players."

Merrick was among more than 20 applicants for the position, according to Setter. He will oversee roughly 70-80 players and a staff of five assistants.

“He walks the talk and I think he’s going to be a great role model for our kids," Setter said. "I liked his very direct approach to the game, and apperiated his wisdom."