Echo is pleased to announce that it has named Kalen Saddler as its Assistant Director of Coaching.  Kalen’s primary areas of responsibility will be Echo’s Academy and First Skills programs.

Kalen played high school soccer locally at John Adams High School before playing collegiately at Holy Cross College.  While at Holy Cross, Kalen captained the team for two years and was named to the academic all-conference team.  He graduated with a degree in business administration.

Kalen began his coaching career at Michiana Echo, where he has coached for 4 years with great success both on and off the field.  He is an active participant as a “buddy” in Echo’s TOPSoccer program for children with disabilities.  Kalen is well-liked by players and parents alike for his great enthusiasm, leadership, and coaching ability.  This past season, Kalen made soccer history in the Michiana area by starting the Jimtown High School girls’ soccer program and guiding the first-year program to multiple wins.  He currently holds a USSF D License.

Kalen joins Omar Gallo (Director of Coaching/2016 Indiana DOC of the Year), Duma Magagula (Head Technical Director/2018 Indiana Girls Coach of the Year), and Mary Schalliol (TOPSoccer Director/2016 Indiana TOPSoccer Buddy of the Year) in Echo’s coaching leadership.  In partnership with Coerver Indiana, Echo also features a trio of Coerver technical directors (Sergio del Campo, Briant Estrella, and Christian Hall).  Kalen will replace Kyle Zaber, who will remain with Echo in a more limited role but is stepping aside from his director duties to focus on his studies and family, a decision fully supported by Echo.

“Coach Kyle has done a tremendous job creating the culture for the youth programs here at Michiana Echo,” said Kalen.  “I have coached at the club for many years and it is a true honor to step into the Assistant Director of Coaching position.  Michiana Echo is a fantastic club that focuses on not only developing great players, but great individuals as well.  I am looking forward to helping Michiana Echo continue to grow and be a top club in the area.”

“Kyle has set a high standard for our academy and First Skills programs and Kalen is the perfect fit to build on what Kyle has accomplished here,” said Echo president Ryan Milligan.  “He is one of the area’s brightest young coaches and has a great enthusiasm and energy for teaching the game and life skills to our players.  His great work with Echo teams has not gone unnoticed and we are thrilled to have him as part of our coaching leadership.”

Michiana Echo will have 10 academy teams this Spring and had over 100 kids participate in its most recent First Skills program.  Visit our website for more information about Michiana Echo and our Academy and First Skills programs.