Russell Oost-Lievense Named Wreckers’ New Head Coach
The new head coach of Staples High School is a familiar face.
Russell Oost-Lievense has been selected to lead the storied Wrecker program, athletic director Marty Lisevick announced today. He replaces Dan Woog, who retired in January.
Oost-Lievense is only the 4th permanent head coach in Staples soccer’s 64-year history. Like his predecessors, he has a long and strong connection with the program.
After serving as the Wreckers’ tri-captain in 2007, Oost-Lievense played at Hartwick College, where he majored in English and special education. He became an assistant coach at Hartwick, coached in the Oneonta, New York youth program, and spent several summers running a camp on Cape Cod. After working with the Beachside Soccer Club, he now coaches Inter and CFC club teams. He also works as the soccer program director for Bridgeport’s Brighter Lives for Kinds Foundation, an after-school mentoring project.
Oost-Lievense joined the Staples staff 6 years ago, as freshman coach. He spent 2 years in that role, 2 as reserves coach, and the past 2 as varsity assistant. Last year he earned a US Soccer “coaching license. He is a special education teacher at Darien High School.
“Russell is a spectacular choice,” says Woog. “He is the right man at the right time for this job.
“Russell has the total respect of players, parents and other coaches. He breaks down a match — both by teams, and individually — better than anyone I know. He is a master at creating game plans, and the training sessions leading up to them. He is a true student of the game.
“Russell is passionate about soccer at all levels — particularly Staples soccer. He understands our tradition, our legacy, and the importance of passing that along to current and future players.
“Our program is in good shape. I am confident Russell will kick it up many more notches, in the years ahead. It will be great to see.”
Oost-Lievense’s selection continues the tradition of coaches associated with the program. Woog — who was head coach for 19 years — had also been a former player and freshman, reserves and varsity assistant coach. His predecessor, Jeff Lea, served the program’s founder, Albie Loeffler, as junior varsity coach. Lea was head coach for 26 years, following Loeffler’s 20. Frank Henrick was the interim coach in 1969, during Loeffler’s sabbatical — and won a state championship.
The 2022 schedule — and more news — will be announced soon.
Staples’ new head coach Russell Oost-Lievense.
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