Erik Imler Executive Director, Player & Coaching Education

International Career

Imler represented the United States at multiple youth levels. He played in the 1987 FIFA U-16 World Championship and was part of the U.S. U-20 and U-23 teams. He contributed to the U.S. team's gold medal win at the 1991 Pan American Games and played in the 1992 Summer Olympics in Barcelona, starting all three group matches. Imler earned his only senior cap for the U.S. national team on March 23, 1993, against El Salvador, a match in which he suffered a knee injury that ended his international career prematurelyAmerican soccer coach and former professional player known for his contributions at the collegiate, professional, and international levels. Currently serving as the Director of the Youth Academy program at Waxhaw Soccer Club in North Carolina,  Imler brings a wealth of experience from a decorated playing and coaching career.

Youth and College Career

Raised in Maryland, Imler attended Bowie High School, where he was named a Parade Magazine High School All-American in 1989. He went on to play college soccer at the University of Virginia from 1989 to 1992 under coach Bruce Arena. A standout defender and defensive midfielder, Imler helped the Cavaliers win three NCAA national championships (1989, 1991, 1992).  He captained the team in his junior and senior years and was named a two-time All-American. Imler graduated with a degree in sports medicine and was later named to SoccerAmerica's College Team of the Century in 2000.

Professional Career

Imler began his professional career in the USISL, playing for the Delaware Wizards in 1994 and the Raleigh Flyers in 1995. He was selected by D.C. United in the 1996 MLS Inaugural Player Draft and played a key role in the club’s first championship season, contributing to victories in both the 1996 MLS Cup and the 1996 U.S. Open Cup. In 1997, he signed with the New England Revolution. He later joined the Charleston Battery, but a torn ACL in 1998 limited his playing time. Imler made a brief return in 1999 with Charleston and then the Lehigh Valley Steam, before retiring from professional soccer.

Coaching Career

Following his retirement, Imler transitioned into coaching, working in youth development and collegiate soccer. He served as Director of Coaching at Charlotte Soccer Academy and was named head coach of the Belmont Abbey College women's soccer team in 2008, leading them to a 17-3-3 record in his sole season. In 2010, he became an assistant coach with the U.S. U-17 men’s national team before joining the University of Kentucky men’s soccer program for the 2012 and 2013 seasons

Real Feedback

Erik was a blessing for our son. Truthful and transparent! Found ways to motivate JT and transform him as a player. Had never had a coach like Erik before and have spent every day since our season ended 3 years ago trying to find another like him. Not afraid to tell a parent or player the things they don't want to hear, and knows when to praise them for when it's right. Simply put,  one of the best!"

Neil and Jennifer Anderson

"Coach Imler had a profound impact on both my career and my life.  Learning under someone who competed at the highest level showed me - day in and day out - what true discipline, preparation and elite performance looks like. He didn't just make me a better soccer player - he helped shape me into a more focused, accountable and resilient person.  Those lessons carried directly into my professional life, where I've since earned President's Club honors in medical sales and built my own training platform, completing over 1,000 sessions with nearly 100 athletes.  None of that would have been possible without the foundation Coach Imler gave me.  His leadership and example continue to influence how I train, how I coach and how I show up in every area of my life. "

Cameron Wilder 

Former Univ of Kentucky Soccer Player

FITT2020 CEO

"Coach Erik Imler was incredibly influential in my son's soccer development.  His training helped him grow in confidence, discipline and game awareness. He is honest thoughtful and always willing to have conversations about goals and the future, which gave our son clarity and motivation.  We are so grateful for the positive impact he had on Henry as a player and his love for soccer."

Adrienne Fletcher

"Erik is an inspirational coach who consistently goes above and beyond. The positive impact he has had on my son continues to be felt 10 years later. He helps his players reach their full potential both on and off the field and is a tremendous asset to the coaching world. I highly recommend him to anyone who wants to work with a motivated, hardworking, and skilled coach. He is respected by both the parents and players that he coaches and he is a one of a kind coach. "

Allison Mierzejewski