Inglewood United has bolstered its off-field team with the recruitment of respected youth coach Richie Abrams for the 2016 National Premier Leagues season. Abrams has been handed the reins of the Under-18s where he’ll be assisted by Daniel Stoitis, and together the pair will oversee the development of the next generation of Inglewood players.

Abrams, a FFA ‘B’ License holder, has a proven track record in unearthing and producing young talent. For the last couple of years he has been in charge of Perth SC’s Under-18s, steering the teenage squad to the League and Cup double while guiding over a dozen players to the next level.

“I’m very excited to be part of Inglewood’s coaching team and are looking forward to the new challenge ahead,” Abrams said. “Inglewood has a rich history and after speaking with (Technical Director) Scott Richardson about his plans and vision for the club, the opportunity to be involved was too hard to resist.”

“Working alongside Michael Garcia and the rest of the coaching group is something I’m particularly looking forward to. I completed a senior coaching course with Michael a few years ago and have a lot of respect for him and his methods. Inglewood is a club that deserves success and the youth team will be a big part of that.”

Abrams is thankful for serving his coaching apprenticeship under Rick Slade, spending time in the United States academy system and working with Wanneroo City’s reserves. He joined Perth five years ago, initially serving as assistant to first team coach Gianfranco Circati and more recently nurturing the talent coming through that clubs youth ranks.

“The most satisfying part of coaching is working with lads of 15 and 16 and getting them to the next level,” explained Abrams, who is in the midst of trials for next seasons’ squad. “Last term Inglewood set the bench mark for promoting youth, with Under-18 players allowed and encouraged to progress right through to the first team.”

“My goal for 2016 is for Inglewood’s Under-18s to play attractive, competitive football in a positive environment which allows the players to develop to their full potential. Whilst results provide a guide in the development phase, preparing players for the transition to Under-20 and senior football with Inglewood is what it’s all about.”