Welcome to the revolutionary Vision Training Soccer Academy (VTSA), where the game is not just about skill, but about sharpening your vision and unlocking your full potential on the field. At VTSA, we believe that true mastery of soccer goes beyond physical prowess alone. Our unique approach focuses on enhancing visual perception, awareness, and decision-making abilities, giving players a competitive edge like no other. Through cutting-edge training techniques, state-of-the-art technology, and a team of dedicated coaches, we are committed to transforming your game and taking your soccer journey to new heights. Join VTSA and prepare to see the game in a whole new way, as we strive to create a new era of soccer stars who excel not only with their feet but also with their eyes. Get ready to elevate your game with VTSA.
VTSA Staff
Evan Weller
Director of Coaching
"First you make your habits, then your habits make you"
Evan Weller is the varsity boys soccer coach at Phillipsburg High School where he has catapulted the team to statewide prominence. He is the winningest soccer coach at Phillipsburg, and he has garnered Coach of the Year honors 2x for his accomplishments. Evan has his NSCAA Premier Diploma, USSF National "D" license, and level 4 VTSA license.
Rob Miller
Director of Girls Soccer
"Playing soccer is very simple, but playing simple football is the hardest thing there is."
Rob Miller is a passionate and detail-oriented coach with experience at high levels. His passion for the game and how to prepare for them is unwavering. Rob spent three seasons as an assistant coach with the Kutztown University women's soccer program. During his tenure the Golden Bears won two PSAC regular season titles, made a sweet 16 appearance, were nationally ranked in each season, coached 3 all-american athletes and received coaching staff of the year honors in the PSAC and Atlantic Region.
Before teaming up with head coach Erik Burstein at KU, Rob also served as the general manager and assistant coach for the Lehigh Valley Tempest, an amateur team playing in the Women’s Premier Soccer League. During his time in the WPSL, the Tempest received franchise of the year and coaching staff of the year two times.
Rob was a coach for the Phillipsburg High School girl’s soccer team, Vice President and staff coach for Vision Training Soccer Academy and helped lead the Grenada U-17 National Team in the 2016 CONCACAF Women's U-17 Championship.
Since 2016, Miller has been a middle school science teacher and educational technology specialist in Phillipsburg, NJ. A graduate of Phillipsburg High School in Phillipsburg, NJ, Miller continued his education at Eastern University. Rob holds a USSF National "D" license and a VTSA level 2 license.
Zach Lahey
Staff Coach
" I will forgive if the players cannot get it right, but not if they do not try hard."
Zach started playing soccer when he was four years old, where he grew up in Stewartsville, NJ. He went on to play varsity soccer at Phillipsburg High School for three years, where he earned All-Conference honors as a right fullback. He played club soccer at Football Club of New Jersey, where he played in the top premier division of New Jersey. After high school, he went to Albright College, where he played four years of collegiate soccer and was captain for two seasons. He appeared in 67 matches and made 40 starts. He graduated from Albright with a degree in Business and Communications with a Public Relations track. During his offseasons, he played in USL League Two for Reading United AC. After college, Zach started a job with the New York Red Bulls as a Communications Assistant and now hold the position of Manager of Communications. He have been coaching and volunteering with Phillipsburg Boys Soccer Program and Vision Training Soccer Academy for the last six years. Zach holds a New Jersey "F" license.
Bill Thompson
Staff Coach
" If you want to be part of a great team,
you must strive to be a great teammate."
Bill Thompson has over a decade of experience coaching youth soccer. He was a founding Phillipsburg Youth Soccer Club member and coached there for several years. Before joining VTSA, he coached for Saints Philip & James School, leading multiple teams to league championships. Bill's focus at VTSA is growing the girls' game and developing the whole player. Bill holds the USSF National D and VTSA Level II licenses and is a USSF Grassroots Referee.
Rob Thorne
Staff Coach
"It's hard to beat the person who never gives up."
Rob Thorne is a dedicated soccer coach with a passion for the game. Rob has had the privilege to shadow both of our founders Coaches TJ Kostecky and Len Bilous. Through this mentorship he has adopted innovative coaching methods teaching players how to scan the field coupled with the tactical and technical aspects of soccer.
He focuses on creating a positive and motivating environment, Rob is committed to helping players reach their full potential while instilling important values such as teamwork, discipline, and sportsmanship.
With a commitment to continuous learning and growth, Rob keeps up with the latest developments in soccer coaching methodologies and stays updated on the evolving trends in soccer. He holds a NJYS F license and VTSA Level 2 coaching certifications, ensuring he remains at the forefront of coaching best practices.
Nate Wilde
Goalkeeping Coach
"You miss 100% of the shots you don’t take!"
Nate Wilde, a former VTSA player and PHS alumni, served as the prominent goalkeeper for the Stateliners. His unwavering passion for the sport has continuously connected him to VTSA, even as he diligently pursues his college education. Nate now fulfills the role of the Academy's goalkeeper trainer.
JR Hann
President
"When you live life right, things happen right!"
JR Hann, a dynamic and visionary leader, serves as President of Vision Training Soccer Academy. With a deep passion for youth soccer and a commitment to fostering a nurturing environment, JR brings fresh perspectives and a drive for continuous growth to the academy.
Having partnered with the founders of Vision Training Soccer for more than 15 years on the development of training aids and camps, JR's extensive knowledge and community outreach have been instrumental in VTSA’s advancement. His leadership combines collaboration, open communication, and a strong sense of community.
JR continues to build lasting partnerships with local clubs, sponsors, and organizations to promote soccer participation and create opportunities for youth to thrive in the sport. With a focus on excellence, he is dedicated to expanding player development programs, establishing scholarships, and creating pathways for players to compete at higher levels.
If you have any inquiries or would like to learn more about VTSA’s initiatives, please feel free to contact JR Hann at JRHann@VTSA.org. Alongside the dedicated team at Vision Training Soccer Academy, JR is excited to continue making a positive impact on young soccer players and the community.
Carlos Duque
Treasurer
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Carlos Duque is a diligent and detail-oriented individual serving as the treasurer for our esteemed Vision Training Soccer Academy. With strong organizational skills and a passion for soccer, Carlos brings a unique blend of financial expertise and love for the sport to his role.
Carlos's passion for soccer and his commitment to the club drive him to ensure that the academy's financial resources are managed efficiently and effectively. He takes great pride in maintaining accurate financial records, tracking expenses, and monitoring the academy's financial health.
In his role as treasurer, Carlos collaborates closely with the academy's board and other stakeholders to develop and manage the academy's budget. He provides valuable insights and recommendations to optimize financial decisions and maximize the academy's resources, ensuring that funds are allocated appropriately to support various programs, equipment, and facilities.
With his strong financial acumen, attention to detail, and love for soccer, Carlos Duque ensures that the soccer academy's financial affairs are managed with integrity and efficiency. His dedication and commitment to the academy's financial well-being contribute significantly to the academy's continued growth and success.
Jay Romanovsky
Registrar
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Jay Romanovsky is a highly organized and dedicated individual who serves as the soccer club registrar. With a deep love for the sport and a keen eye for detail, Jay plays a crucial role in managing the club's registration process, ensuring a seamless experience for players and their families.
With years of experience in administrative roles, Jay possesses excellent communication and organizational skills. He understands the importance of clear and efficient communication and is committed to providing exceptional customer service to academy members throughout the registration process.
As the registrar, Jay is responsible for overseeing all aspects of player registration. He works closely with parents, guardians, and coaches to collect and maintain accurate registration forms, medical information, and player records. He ensures that all required documentation is submitted and compliant with league regulations and guidelines.
Jay's meticulous approach guarantees that the academy's database of players remains up to date and accurate. He manages the registration fees, tracks payments, and assists with financial inquiries, ensuring transparency and accountability.
Jay is committed to leveraging technology to streamline the registration experience. He stays informed about the latest registration software and tools, implementing efficient systems that simplify the process for players and their families, while also reducing administrative burdens for the academy.
With his exceptional organizational skills, attention to detail, and passion for soccer, Jay Romanovsky ensures that the club's registration process is efficient and hassle-free. His dedication to providing exceptional service and creating a positive experience for players and their families significantly contributes to the success and growth of VTSA.