News Summary

Staples High School in Westport, Connecticut, has appointed Liam Witham as the new head coach for the boys soccer team starting in the 2025 season. With a rich history of 12 state titles, Staples aims to build upon its legacy with Witham, who brings extensive playing and coaching experience from teams across the UK and the US. His approach involves creating a unified coaching philosophy for all levels of the soccer program and fostering strong community connections as the team prepares for try-outs in August 2025.

Staples High School Welcomes Liam Witham as New Boys Soccer Coach for 2025 Season

In the vibrant town of Westport, Connecticut, exciting news comes from Staples High School as they have officially named Liam Witham as the new head coach for the boys soccer team, set to kick off in the 2025 season. Witham, a seasoned soccer player and coach, is stepping into an important role that will shape the future of the program.

A Historic Appointment

Liam Witham will be the fifth “permanent” head coach in the history of Staples’ boys soccer program, a legacy that boasts an impressive 12 state titles and a deep-rooted passion for the sport. His appointment comes after Russell Oost-Lievense‘s contract was not renewed, leaving a pivotal opportunity for a new leader to take the reins of this storied team.

From London to Westport

Originally from London, Witham brings with him a wealth of professional playing experience. He has played for teams like Boreham Wood FC and Hartford City during the US Open Cup, showcasing his extensive background and skills on the field. Additionally, his coaching prowess spans various levels, having previously coached U-17 boys at FC Westchester, alongside U-13 and U-14 MLS Next teams. His collegiate coaching experience also includes leading the women’s soccer team at the University of Mount Saint Vincent.

Passion for Training

In addition to his coaching experience, Witham runs his own business, Players 1st, which specializes in one-on-one athlete training. This demonstrates his commitment to nurturing talent and ensuring each player receives focused attention to enhance their individual skills and overall performance.

Community Connections

Witham’s connection to Staples High School was not a stroke of luck but a thoughtful recommendation from Barry Beattie, the girls’ soccer coach at the school. Beattie felt that Witham would be a stellar addition to the coaching staff, and it seems that the administration agrees.

Building Relationships

Since his hiring, Witham has already begun meeting the players, including the varsity team captains. This early engagement is crucial for establishing rapport and understanding the team’s dynamics before the season kicks off.

A Unified Coaching Philosophy

As he steps into this new role, Witham has shared his excitement about implementing his coaching philosophy across all levels of the soccer program, striving to create a cohesive approach that extends beyond just the varsity squad. His vision includes aligning the coaching philosophy for the varsity, junior varsity, and freshman teams. This kind of consistency is essential for a smooth transition as players move up through the ranks.

Careful Selection Process

The search for the new boys soccer head coach began in May, led by athletic director VJ Sarullo. Sarullo took the time to consult student-athletes and their families, ensuring their voices were heard in the hiring process. After a thorough interviewing procedure that considered five qualified candidates, Witham emerged as the clear favorite after several rounds of discussions.

Looking Ahead

As preparations begin for the upcoming season, try-outs for the boys soccer team are scheduled to start on August 18, 2025, with the regular season commencing on September 2, 2025. The excitement is building in Westport as players, families, and fans look forward to the new chapter in Staples High School’s boys soccer history under Witham’s guidance.

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