066-067: The Gandalf of Goalkeeping, Eric Vaughter

From the Owl that represents his alma mater, Warren Wilson College, to the wizard’s nickname that he shares with Sir Ian McKellen, there are few goalkeeping coaches in the world whose wisdom is respected and revered as much as Eric Vaughter’s. The Reusch USA marketing manager and Tennessee Soccer Club Director of Goalkeeping shares lessons and experiences from his four decades in the game.

After a successful collegiate career and several years in the professional American Soccer League of the 1970s, EV turned his attention to coaching and developing goalkeepers, and has helped propel more than his fair share of college, professional and international careers.

In Part I of the interview, EV discusses his roots in the game, watching goalkeepers in Estadio Azteca, and his playing days with the Owls and the New York Apollo. We also discuss his first several coaching opportunities, culminating in a national title with the Duke Blue Devils in 1986.

In Part II (available below), we continue that coaching journey as EV moved to Charlotte and, eventually, Nashville. He talks about the various ages and levels of goalkeepers that he’s coached, ranging from grassroots and elite club and academy keepers, all the way to the college and professional game, as well as a number of national and international stars.

Along the way, EV has stories and relevant advice from every stop. He addresses the value of a catch-first mentality, the importance of wearing the right gear to protect yourself on the pitch, and the most significant qualities he looks for in a successful goalkeeper. Altogether, it’s a dense 90 minutes. I hope you enjoy it!

Special thanks to Eric Vaughter for joining me!