MacKenna "Mac" Carmichael

I want to thank my long-time friend, Lauren, for encouraging me to become a Goalkeeper. 

I would also like to thank one of my first coaches, Brian Parsons, while I was just starting out in the Goalkeeping position, for seeing potential in me. You never gave up on me and always found something I did that was great even on a goal! 

I would like to thank Billy McNichol for inspiring me to pursue the Goalkeeper position. You were very positive in allowing me to blossom.

Thank you Johann Noetzel for helping me develop a technique in which I could build upon. You worked with me for countless hours and never once gave up, even in my earliest years when I constantly fumbled. You were instrumental in my success. You always said a GK must be the most fit on the field and be a great field player too.

I want to give another special thanks to Carlos Guerrero for making me stronger, not only physically, but mentally. You taught me to be tough and never quit even in situations that seemed too difficult. Your practices were very inclusive with the Goalkeeping position, and got me started with the “keeper sweeper” dynamic. 

Ian Feuer, thank you for showing me a different aspect on the game and making me see how a Goalkeeper needs to be extremely smart to operate in such a demanding position. You made me step up onto a whole other level and I am glad you pushed me out of my comfort zones to uncover a different skill-set. 

Thank you, Greg Laporte for investing so much time in me early on at Surf. You helped build my confidence. 

A big thank you Joe Panian for pulling me up to train with the older Surf USSDA Goalkeepers. I started at 13 playing with 18-year-old men.   

Thank you Derek Armstrong for inviting me to train with the Nomads Academy boys. All of the coaches there, Derek, Nader, Tsaki, and David helped me develop my feet which transpired in my everyday play. Derek Armstrong taught me how to chest trap and play one touch to feet.

To Paul Dolinsky, I want to say thank you for always supporting me and taking the time to help me grow into an even better player. Every time you coach me, I find your brilliance extremely helpful. You have such an interesting insight on the game and I am so lucky to learn from you. I like it when you are loud because that is how quiet your can be too.

Thank you Brian Bush for going against the grain and seeing things very early and for having the confidence in me to do great things. You are amazing and so is your style. I respect straight shooters. 

-Last but surely not least, I want to thank my family for all your love and support. Without all of you guiding me, I wouldn’t be where I am today.