Coaches

Shamus Funk
USSF D License

Shamus has coached for 20+ years, with the last 11 years being with United. He started playing soccer when he was five years old and continued playing until his body got too old to play at the level he wanted. His “why” for coaching soccer is because he loves the sport. He knows that once the players take the field during a game there is very little he can do as a coach; it’s the preparation, work, and development that he provides as coach that prepares the players for success. Coaching at ECU is about sharing a love for the game, while hopefully being able to mix in player development with having fun. Shamus wants to help players find their own solutions and think independently versus dictating how they should play. The clubs Shamus supports outside of ECU are Sevilla FC Femenino and Minnesota United. Additionally, he supports the USWNT. Shamus’s best soccer memory is watching his kids grow up with the game and seeing them celebrate the highs and work through the lows. His favorite pregame ritual is a special way he takes the field. When not on the pitch for United, Shamus enjoys a career as a Chemistry Teacher at CVTC and works with the University of Wisconsin Eau Claire Women’s Varsity Soccer Team.

Scotty Lyons
USSF D License

Scotty has coached for 18 years, all being with United. His experience with soccer started as a coach for his children. His “why” for coaching soccer is the opportunity to work with young athletes and instill both soccer skills and life skills and provide them an amazing experience to help build their confidence. Coaching at ECU is a priceless opportunity to not only see a young player improve and develop their skills but also become a great teammate. That moment on the field when it happens, when you see their face light up, fills up Scott’s heart and puts a big smile on his face. The club Scott supports outside of ECU is Chelsea FC. Additionally, he supports both the USMNT and USWNT. Scott’s best soccer memories are his first year of coaching and taking a C2 team from a collection of potential to the State Finals, and watching two of his sons play in the Wisconsin State Soccer tournament. His favorite pregame tradition is the pregame huddle and watching the girls' faces change as they get into game mode. When not on the pitch for United, Scotty enjoys a career as a Sales Director.

Rick Sosa
USSF D License

Rick has coached for 27 years, with the last three years being with United. His highest level of playing experience is at the professional level for Atlas MX. His “why” for coaching soccer is to pay it forward. Coaching at ECU is an opportunity for him to help someone fall in love with the game, while helping them become a better overall person, while working in a team environment with one common goal. The clubs Rick supports outside of ECU are Atlas MX, Barcelona, Liverpool, AC Milan and locally Minnesota United. Rick’s best soccer memory as a player was playing against AC Milan. As a coach, his best memory was an 0-2 comeback win in a championship game with his daughter’s Salvo team. His favorite pregame traditions are listening to the national anthem and walking the field. When not on the pitch for United, Rick enjoys a career in Banking.

Ned Noel
TOPSoccer Director

Ned has coached for five years, with the last two and a half years being with United. His highest level of playing experience is at the high school level where he helped his team win a State Championship. His “why” for coaching soccer is to help others learn the beautiful game. Coaching at ECU, and being the TOPSoccer Director, is an opportunity to give children who would not normally have a chance to play the game that opportunity. The clubs Ned supports outside of ECU are Leicester City and locally Minnesota United. Additionally, he supports both Italy and USA’s national team. Ned’s best soccer memory is when he saw Pele speak live at the USA Cup. His favorite pregame tradition is talking with the team to get them excited for the game. When not on the pitch for United, Ned enjoys a career as the City Planning Manager for the City of Eau Claire.

STAFF

Shamus Funk
Director of Coaching - adoc@ecusoccer.org

Ashley Ninneman
Club Administrator - admin@ecusoccer.org