FRISCO, Texas - Alex Aldaz, FC Dallas Academy coach, has been selected as an assistant coach for the U-17 USA Men’s Youth National Team ahead of the Concacaf U-17 Championship. Aldaz will be in his fifth U-17 USA MYNT camp, representing the strong bridge between FC Dallas, its players, and staff joining the national team setup.
Aldaz joined FC Dallas in 2018 and serves as the FCD U-15 Academy Head Coach. He’s worked with the U-17 men’s youth national team as it gears up for the Concacaf U-17 Championship. The four semifinalists of the Concacaf U-17 Championship will qualify for the 2023 FIFA U-17 World Cup in Peru. Heading into Concacaf play, Aldaz will play a significant role in coaching and development for the team’s young prospects.
“There's a sense of pride, you're representing your country…When you stand there and hear the anthem, there's nothing like it.” Aldaz said.
Aldaz supports fellow USA MYNT coaches and players alike, developing strong relationships off the field that reap benefits on the field. “It's not just training then everybody goes back to their hotel room,” he explained. “It’s very structured, where we have moments to connect with the players, and maximize learning opportunities.”
Being with the national team, Aldaz has been able to learn new tactics and techniques that he can apply to his coaching for the FC Dallas Academy team:
“Being able to go to the national team and participate in learning, evaluation and competition camps has provided a wealth of knowledge and made me a more well-rounded coach. The biggest takeaway is the level of detail and organization.”
While Aldaz looks forward to competing, he also knows what is expected of the team and staff. “The performance objectives are clear. It's reaching the semifinals, then you're in the World Cup. However, being the USA and part of Concacaf means that's not enough. You want to become Concacaf Champions.”
The U.S. will play in Group F of Concacaf U17 Championship alongside Canada, Trinidad and Tobago, and Barbados. The team will open group stage play on Saturday, February 11, 2023 against Barbados.
