Nike Soccer Camp in Columbia

Camp Coaches

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  Phillip Gyau

  Camp Co-Director

  Phillip Gyau is one of the most accomplished and respected figures in American soccer, bringing more than two decades of elite coaching experience and a distinguished professional playing career to the Nike Soccer Camp with Next Star at Howard University. A former U.S. National Team forward, international professional, and nationally recognized developer of youth talent, Gyau combines unmatched passion with a proven record of guiding players to their highest potential. His background as a championship‑winning athlete, mentor, and leader makes him an exceptional role model for young players and an invaluable co‑director for this camp.

  View Phillip's Bio
  

  Phillip Gyau

  Camp Co-Director

  Gyau, a proud Howard University alumnus (B.A. ’87), returned to his alma mater in April 2014 when he was named Head Coach of the Men’s Soccer program. His playing career includes time abroad in Belgium and multiple seasons in the United States, where he captured several major titles, including the 1987 U.S. Open Cup, the 1990 American Professional Soccer League Championship with the Maryland Bays, and the 1994 APSL Championship with the Montreal Impact.

  Following his playing days, Gyau transitioned seamlessly into coaching, spending a decade leading the U.S. Men’s National Beach Soccer Team, helping elevate the program on the international stage. His impact on youth development is equally remarkable: Gyau has long been recognized as a local coaching icon, celebrated for his unmatched dedication and his ability to identify and nurture top talent. He has coached and influenced numerous elite players, including his children, U.S. National Team player Joseph Gyau and professional player Mia Gyau, as well as many others who have gone on to collegiate, professional, and national‑team success.

  Gyau’s influence extends deep into the local and regional soccer communities, where he has guided several clubs to state and regional championships while earning widespread respect both domestically and abroad for his developmental philosophy and coaching excellence. In recognition of his contributions to the sport, he was inducted into the Maryland Soccer Hall of Fame in 2007.

  Today, Coach Gyau continues to inspire the next generation of athletes through his leadership at Howard University and his commitment to fostering growth, passion, and excellence in youth soccer. His presence as Co‑Director of the Nike Soccer Camp ensures young players receive world‑class instruction rooted in experience, integrity, and love for the game.
  

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  Paul Torres

  Camp Co-Director

  Coach Paul Torres is widely recognized for his exceptional expertise in youth player development, bringing a sharp eye for detail, professional playing experience, and a proven ability to elevate athletes of all levels. Known for his thoughtful, technique‑focused approach, Paul has built a reputation for shaping confident, intelligent, and technically sound players who thrive both individually and within team environments.

  View Paul's Bio
  

  Paul Torres

  Camp Co-Director

  Paul enjoyed a successful six‑year professional career in Sweden and Norway, competing at some of the highest levels in Scandinavia. Before turning pro, he was recruited to the University of Maryland in 2009, where he competed for two seasons in one of the nation’s top Division I programs.

  His youth career is one of the most decorated in the region. As a standout for the Bethesda Roadrunners, he helped secure three state championships and two regional titles. Paul then captained the D.C. United U16 and U18 Academy teams, winning the U17 MLS Cup Championship and leading teams to two Youth MLS Cup titles. He was twice named D.C. United Academy Player of the Year and earned U‑17 MLS Cup MVP honors.

  At the national level, Paul was selected to the U.S. Soccer Federation U16 Starting XI in 2008 and 2009, as well as the Region I U18 Starting XI in 2009. Starting at age 16, he also trained regularly with the D.C. United First Team, an experience that accelerated his development and helped launch his collegiate and professional career.

  Today, Paul is deeply committed to mentoring youth players. He is passionate about 1‑on‑1 training, building strong groups, and providing athletes with the technical tools and mindset necessary to reach their full potential. His coaching style blends professional experience with personalized attention, making him a trusted and influential leader for aspiring soccer players.