Select Soccer Club Welcomes Robert Speed as High-Level Girls Coach for ECNL, ECNL RL, and AP Programs
Hingham, MA — March 12, 2026 — Select Soccer Club is excited to announce the hiring of Robert Speed as a high-level girls coach who will work across the club’s ECNL, ECNL Regional League (ECNL RL), and AP teams. Speed brings more than a decade of international and U.S. coaching experience, along with a proven track record of player development, program growth, and strong family engagement.
In his new role, Speed will contribute to the continued development of Select’s elite girls pathway, helping players reach their full potential both on and off the field while reinforcing the club’s commitment to integrity, respect, dedication, and community.
Speed most recently served as Regional Academy Director for New England Surf, where he oversaw operations in the Boston Metro-South region, worked with the State Girls Program, and played a key role in player recruitment, program strategy, and family engagement initiatives. Prior to that, he spent four years with Steel United as Regional Academy Director and Assistant Teams Director, overseeing programs from U8–U18 and leading significant program growth across the Boston and Cape regions.
Earlier in his career, Speed held leadership roles with John Smith Soccer Academy, Challenger Sports, and professional development programs in England, including Torquay United and Paignton Sports Academy.
Select Soccer Club leadership believes Speed’s experience developing players, managing high-level programs, and building strong relationships with families makes him an outstanding addition to the coaching staff. Speed is equally enthusiastic about joining the club and working with the players within Select’s elite girls pathway.
“I’m incredibly excited to join Select Soccer Club and work with such talented players and dedicated staff,” said Robert Speed. “The club has built an outstanding reputation for player development and community, and I’m looking forward to helping athletes grow both as competitors and as individuals. Creating a positive environment where players can challenge themselves, enjoy the game, and reach their potential is something I’m deeply passionate about.”
Brendan Hamilton, Select’s ECNL Director, emphasized the impact Speed will have within the club’s top competitive programs.
“Rob brings tremendous energy, organization, and a player-first mindset,” Hamilton said. “His experience developing programs and connecting with players and families will be incredibly valuable for our ECNL, ECNL RL, and AP teams. We’re excited to have someone with his background helping elevate our girls programs.”
Beyond his coaching experience, Speed is known for his focus on building strong relationships within clubs and ensuring players and families feel supported throughout their development journey.
“Rob understands the full ecosystem of youth soccer — from player development to parent relationships and club growth,” said Ben Kluvers, Vice President of Growth at Select Soccer Club. “His ability to connect with players and families while driving competitive excellence makes him a perfect fit for where Select is heading as a club.”
Speed holds a UEFA Welsh C License and multiple FA coaching certifications, and he brings a coaching philosophy centered on leadership, character development, and long-term player success.
His addition further strengthens Select Soccer Club’s commitment to providing elite coaching and meaningful development opportunities for players across its competitive pathways.
