As fans across northern California, and especially Sonoma County watch the opening World Cup game, it is likely they will recognize the face of Dutch coach Frans Hoek, who currently serves as an assistant coach with the Saudi Arabian team.

Frans has had a storied coaching career, with stops at Ajax Amsterdam, FC Barcelona, Bayern Munich and Manchester United.  In addition, he has worked with the Dutch and Polish National teams before joining the Saudi Arabian staff for the World Cup.  Frans specializes in working with goalkeepers and is considered by many the top goalkeeper coach in the world.

For almost 30 years, Frans has been traveling to northern California to help develop players, coaches clubs and soccer in the area.  His influence has been very positive, so from the fields of Sonoma County and northern California to the stadiums in Russia, we wish you luck Frans!