Former United States men’s national team defender Cle Kooiman was hired March 28 as Claremont Stars Soccer Club’s new director of coaching. Before the Stars, Kooiman served as director of coaching for Arsenal FC in Alta Loma, Inland Empire Surf Soccer Club in San Bernardino, and Legends FC in San Bernardino. Early this year, Kooiman concluded his second season with the Stars as coach for the boys 2012 team.

Kooiman started playing at 9 with his local American Youth Soccer Organization team and continued at Chaffey High School. He once held the California record for the longest field goal kick, at 59 yards.

He had a 17-year professional career with Major League Soccer teams and indoor teams throughout Mexico and the U.S. In 1988, he received his first national team call-up and started at center back for the U.S. men’s 1994 World Cup team.

After retiring, Kooiman held various coaching positions including assistant coach for the U.S. men’s under-20 national team. He led the Claremont Stars’ 1982 girls team to a state championship.

For more information visit claremontstars.com.