A Coaching Odyssey from South Africa to Canada and Beyond

A Life Dedicated to Soccer

Alan Koch, a veteran soccer coach with an impressive resume, has recently taken on the challenge of leading the University of Guelph men's soccer team. Despite his new role in Canada, Koch continues his work in New Zealand as the academy technical director/head coach of Western Suburbs FC and GM at the Ole Football Academy.

Born in South Africa, Koch moved to Canada in the 1990s to play soccer at Simon Fraser University. He became a Canadian citizen in 2000 and considers himself a "very very proud Canadian." His current home is on Okanagan Lake in British Columbia.

Koch's passion for soccer began at a young age. He received offers to play for U.S. colleges but ultimately chose Canada after connecting with the late Keith Watts, then coach at SFU. He went on to play professionally in South Africa, Germany, and Ireland before a heart condition forced him to retire early.

Undeterred, Koch transitioned into coaching, starting at Midwestern State University in Texas and then Baker University in Kansas. Upon returning to Vancouver, he briefly sold light fixtures before returning to his true calling as an assistant coach at SFU.

In 2008, Koch became the head coach of SFU, where he compiled an impressive record of 126-21-7 over seven years. He was named conference coach of the year six times and consistently guided the team to top-10 rankings.

Koch's coaching career has taken him across North America, including stints with the Vancouver Whitecaps' women's team, Whitecaps FC 2, FC Cincinnati, and the Colorado Switchbacks. He also had a brief but challenging experience with FC Edmonton in the Canadian Premier League.

Currently, Koch is enjoying his third season in the top-tier New Zealand National League with Western Suburbs FC. He has helped several young players progress, including former Canadian youth international goalkeeper Quillan Roberts and midfielder Connor Wilson.

With a deep passion for the sport and a wealth of experience, Alan Koch continues to make a significant impact on the lives of young players and the world of soccer.