Spotlight on Coach Allan Greaves
Coach Allan Greaves joined RSC in the spring of 2025. He has a wealth of soccer experience as a player and coach, including:
- Technical Director for FC Europa
- Director of Coaching for Greater Chester Valley SC
- Technical Director for the National Association of the British Virgin Islands
- Founding member of the Central League Committee
- Former player for Philadelphia Freedom and Reading Rage
Coach Greaves also holds certifications such as UEFA A badge, the USSF A license, and the KNVB-Dutch Youth badge.
We asked Coach Greaves a few questions about his thoughts on coaching youth soccer.
The Joy in Coaching
Over 30 years—mainly in the Main Line area—helping kids become better soccer players, no matter their starting point. Watching players develop skills, gain confidence, and have those “aha” moments never get old.
Guiding Players Through Growth
I’m coaching a group of players transitioning from rec to travel soccer, which means a lot of learning, a lot of growth—and not a lot of wins. The biggest challenge has been figuring out where each player fits best on the field. Early on, it felt like putting together a 1,000-piece puzzle…without the box cover. But as the season progressed, something special happened—the players started to believe in themselves. They learned to compete, to embrace challenges, and to just enjoy playing.
The biggest lesson for me? Give them opportunities to learn and grow, let them know it’s okay to make mistakes, and watch their confidence soar.
Looking Towards the Future
I’m looking forward to many in the future—getting started [with RSC] in June, so stay tuned!
The Value of Exploring on the Field
Try every position—even goalkeeper. You might surprise yourself! Plus, you’ll gain a whole new appreciation for your teammates (especially your keepers). It’s a game so have fun.
Radnor Soccer Cub, A Perfect Fit
Alan Mezger & Kirk Johnson. I’ve known them for decades, and working with them again was an easy “yes.” Add to that RSC’s strong community roots and commitment to player development, and it was a perfect fit.
Moving From Player to Coach
Honestly? I never planned on it. I thought I’d just keep playing forever—until reality (and my knees) said otherwise. In 1995, I coached a freshman boys’ team, and that season changed everything. The players, the road trips, the energy of a home game under the lights—it was an incredible experience, and I was hooked.
Celebrating Effort, Embracing the Journey
Remember, it’s their sport. Celebrate their effort, not just the result. Enjoy the wins, support them through the losses, and—most importantly—keep it fun. The more they love the game, the better they’ll become.
Do you know of someone that would make a great focus for a future edition of our Spotlight feature? If so, send us an email to nominate them! We love to promote the positive impact our club has had on players, coaches, parents and everyone else in the RSC community and beyond.