Mike Petke Joins New Jersey Youth Soccer
Former head coach of the New York Red Bulls, Mike Petke joins the coaching staff of New Jersey Youth Soccer as the Director of Coaching for the Olympic Development Program. Petke brings substantial experience to the organization that will allow for further development of youth soccer in New Jersey.
Soccer News: NJ Youth Soccer announced it will augment and restructure its coaching staff to enhance
the services provided to its membership. Mike Petke, former head coach of the New York Red Bulls, will join NJ Youth Soccer as the Director of Coaching for the Olympic Development Program (ODP) and Player Development. Rick Meana, an 18-year veteran with NJYS, will continue as Director of Coaching Education with a renewed focus on Recreation and TOPSoccer programs.
“I am extremely excited to join the NJ Youth Soccer family and contribute to the future development of players in our state,” said Petke. “As a father of two young soccer players, I understand the importance of growth, on and off of the field, and am looking forward to working with the great staff at NJ Youth Soccer to build upon that strong foundation.”
Petke joins NJ Youth Soccer with a lifetime of soccer experience. In the 80’s and 90’s, he was a standout in the Olympic Development Program at the state (Eastern New York) and regional levels. At the national level, Petke was a member of the U18 National Team, captain of the U21 National Team, and member of the US Olympic Team player pool for Atlanta 1996. Petke played professionally with Major League Soccer for 13 years, enjoying 8 years in New Jersey with the MetroStars and the Red Bulls. Petke was a 3-time MLS All-Star and MLS Cup Champion in 2004 with DC United before turning his focus to coaching. In 2011, Petke was named the Red Bulls Reserve Team Head Coach and Head of Player Development. Petke quickly advanced to join the 1st team coaching staff and then the Red Bulls’ Head Coach from 2013 to 2015, during which time he led the team to a 2013 Supporters Shield and 2014 Eastern Conference Finals appearance.
Petke currently resides with his wife and two sons in Middletown, where he has been involved as a recreation and travel soccer trainer for the past seven years.
Main Image Photo Credit: Denny Medley-USA TODAY Sports
