skip navigation

Getting to know your coach: Devin Zimmerman

By James Shaw, 10/22/18, 5:15AM MDT

Share

Each month, we’ll be getting the inside line on a member of the Seven Elite Academy team. This month we’ve been talking to Devin Zimmerman, our Regional DOC - goalkeeping.
 
Who inspired you to fall in love with the game?

I honestly just fell in love with the game when I was five-years-old.

What was your favourite soccer team growing up and why?

Leeds United, the reason being is I honestly really didn’t watch soccer growing up, as there wasn’t a lot of opportunities or options. But when I went to college, my coach Jeremy Gunn (currently coaching at Standford University) was from England and his team was Leeds.

So depending on the results of the games would determine if we would get punished or not, so I became a fan just hoping they would win!

Who was your favourite soccer player growing up and why?

Jorge Campos - he was a Mexican goalkeeper who would wear the most vibrant jerseys. Although he was a shorter goalkeeper he could certainly fly!

What was the best moment in your soccer career as coach, player or both?

The best moment in my career was when I received a professional contract.

Apart from soccer, what other sports do you enjoy watching?

I enjoy watching and playing volleyball and basketball.

If you could choose any athlete from the past and present to use as an example of greatness to your players, who it would be?

Michael Jordan, without a doubt.

What was the best advice given to you as a coach?

You never stop learning. Once you do, you’re definitely dead in the water.

What advice would you give to your future self?

Whatever you put your mind to you can achieve.

In 10 years’ time, what would you wish to have achieved on and off the pitch?

To be a positive influence in peoples’ lives.

How does it feel to be a part of 7 Elite Academy?

Being a part of 7 Elite Academy has been inspiring for me.

Being around so many passionate coaches with such a diverse & strong background has created such a great learning environment, for myself as well as other coaches I know.  

The culture 7EA is creating has developed a stronger soccer community that I’m absolutely proud to be a part of.