Goalkeeper Program

Boys & Girls U11 to U19

MTA Goalkeeper Program

Goalkeepers are often the most overlooked individual on the team. Minnesota Thunder Academy has put a goalkeeping program in place to produce our vision of the complete goalkeeper. Goalkeeping is a crucial and privileged playing position. Our objective is to provide the foundation goalkeepers need to improve their technical skills to succeed. We expect our goalkeepers to serve as our team’s last line of defense and first line of offense.

Ages: Boys & Girls (U11 – U19)
Frequency: 1-2 training sessions per week
Eligibility: Any MTA club member interested in goalkeeping.

MTA Staff

Terry Leiendecker

Director, MTA Goalkeeper Program

Terry Leiendecker is a former goalkeeper for Minnesota Thunder men’s professional soccer team, and for MN Strikers professional team. He played for Team USA at the World University Games in Kobe, Japan. Terry was a boys high school Varsity soccer coach at Chaska H.S. and St Louis Park H.S. (15 years). He played college as a 4-year started and captain at St. John’s University, and was a McDonald’s NSCAA All-American. Terry holds NCAA and MIAC Goalkeeping records.

Terry holds a USSF B License and NSCAA Goalkeeping (Level 1, 2,3).

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” I cannot say enough about how much I appreciate the MTA program. As a father of a player who is working towards playing collegiate soccer, I wanted to give him the best opportunity to get first be coached by the best coaches in MN and secondly get some national exposure through ECNL. I believe that he has gotten both. I cannot say enough about Mark Yueill, who is not just a great tactician, but has also showing the value of attitude and hard work.”
Don R. – MTA Parent

” There is no doubt that Joe made his biggest improvements as a soccer player while at MTA. He was taught tactical as well as technical things that have served him increasingly well as he developed. Perhaps more importantly, his coach Mark Yuiell placed an equal importance on being a good team mate, respecting the officials and your opponents and being dedicated to your team. This is often overlooked, but character development was a central tenet of Joe’s education at MTA and we are thankful for the balance Mark demanded. ”

Matthew H. – MTA Parent

” My daughter has not only improved her skills since being part of the MTA program, she has gained confidence and I cannot express how amazing it is to see her comfortable in an environment with her teammates, coaches and friends and free of anxiety and worries. It is truly a safe space for her and has been an incredible blessing to see her excited, happy and excelling. .”

Amanda Jane F. – MTA Parent

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Michelle G. – MTA Parent

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Ashley B. – MTA Parent