Dan Woog Earns United Soccer Coaches’ LGBT Award Of Excellence
Last year, Staples High School boys soccer head coach Dan Woog ran for a seat on United Soccer Coaches’ board of directors.
He lost, in a close election. But his service to the 30,000-member organization — serving youth, high school, college and pro coaches — continues.
And United Soccer Coaches recognizes Dan’s service. Last fall, he received their “Coach of Significance” Award, Each state had one honoree.
Last week in Baltimore, Dan was presented with United Soccer Coaches’ “LGBT & Allies Award of Excellence.” He helped form the association’s LGBT & Allies advocacy group 5 years ago, and been the chair since its inception. The group has developed an online “Diversity and Inclusion” coaching module; created the Play With Pride rainbow laces project, to raise awareness of LGBT coaches and players; plans workshops and sessions for the annual convention, and sponsors coaching courses.
As chair, Dan sits on United Soccer Coaches’ Advocacy Council. Other advocacy groups include black, Latino, Native American, women, disabilities and faith-based coaches, as well as youth, high school and college coaches.
In addition to United Soccer Coaches, Dan serves on the Connecticut Soccer Coaches Association executive board, and is LL representative to the Connecticut Interscholastic Athletic Confeence (CIAC) soccer committee.
