Congratulations to Steve Knapman, the official D.C. United May Coach of the Month!

Steve was nominated by his team the Damascus SC Sparks U10 girls team.

Steve has been coaching in the Maryland and Virginia area for nine years. He holds an English Football Association and UEFA B-License and is currently coaching and training a number of select teams in the Montgomery County area. Steve will also be taking his USSF A - license this year.

During his time in the States, Steve has been involved in teaching a wide range of ages, from 3 years old to over 21 years of age. Such a variety has enabled Steve to vary his skills and adjust to many levels of play.

Steve's professional playing career began in England at age 16 with Oldham Athletic. He also played for Wigan Athletic and Runcom before moving to Hong Kong where he played in their professional first division. Currently he is a part of the A-League here in the United States, and was a member of the professional Maryland Mania team in 1999.

Steve took the opportunity to greater his coaching and playing knowledge under the watchful eye of Bruce Arena (U.S. National Team Coach) and Alan Kelly (D.C. United Goalkeeper Coach) thanks to a number of weeks training with D.C. United.

Steve was nominated by Raymond Maczka, who had this to say:
"As demonstrated by his good sportsmanship, respect for youth, and his passion for the sport of soccer, Coach Steve is committed to young player development. Each young player on his team knows that Coach Steve expects them to perform to their personal best, both on and off the field. Team players and parents alike have cited positive impacts Steve has had on this young squad. Very impressive is Steve's high level of commitment to teaching young players the sport of soccer. He consistently encourages players to think for themselves and to make good decisions."