May 12th, 2017
Dear Newtown families, coaches, managers, friends and children,
As some of you may of heard, John Premus who has diligently served as President of the Newton Soccer Club for several
years, is finally ‘passing the ball.’ And I, Richard Muir am thrilled to join the club as your new President.
I’m from England and have lived in the states for over 20 years. I grew up with soccer (Football) and have played on almost
every continent having been in the British military. It's a true passion of mine and it’s in my blood. I’m happy to say both my
son and daughter both love the game and play for Newtown. So having the opportunity to join the club as President, is
personally exciting and an honor for me.
Over the last month’s transition into this role, the board and I have put a tremendous amount of thought into the future of
our soccer club, who we are and what our mission truly is.
Our goal is simple: how can we make the children of Newtown even more passionate about this brilliant global sport.
Mission Statement
Our mission is to deliver a one of a kind inspiring soccer learning and game-time experience that creates a culture of
intelligent, skilled and confident soccer players, who play this brilliant game, brilliantly!
So how do we do that?
Well, by building a soccer development pathway from what we are calling - Mini to High School.
We are creating a soccer development pathway from - Mini Academy U4-U6 to Pre-Travel Academy (formally Rec) U6-U9
to Travel Academy (formally travel) U9-U19 to High School. The key goal is to create a Newtown style soccer curriculum
designed, built and executed by none other than the best of the best; our very own Newtown High School coach Nick Booth
in unison with Fairfield prep high school coach Ryan Lyddy as they form a internationally talented coaching staff.
We believe this is the only way to build the pathway the right way and critical to the future of our club and our players. Plus, it
will ensure consistency of coaching and learning, while creating a clear player pathway to Newtown High School Soccer if
desired.
We are equally excited that as part soccer of this alignment with the high school, we are re-branding the Club as:
The Newtown Nighthawks Soccer Club.
You will see this brand alignment firsthand at our Memorial Day Tournament and at Travel Try Outs on Monday, June 5th, and
Thursday, June 8th. These events will be a fun and competitive experience for all kids and we welcome you all to join us!
Having relocated to Newtown almost a year ago with my family, I personally feel this is a special community like no other. But
to be successful, we must work together by putting our soccer player’s goals first. That includes communication between the
clubs board our staff and with you the parents; this consistent transparent dialog will be critical to our success.
I invite you to trust that the changes being made are a step in a very positive direction for the children of Newtown by a staff
that knows what they are doing. If you are considering leaving the club, have left the club, please reconsider as our
community, together, rebuilds.
Finally, I am honored to be a part of this organization and am looking forward to working alongside some very talented
people - both on the pitch and off. My personal goal is to take this club to the next level and to make it even stronger leaning
environment for the kids of Newtown who are passionate about soccer.
I invite you to preview some of our vision in the attached presentation. I also welcome you to message me directly.
Cheers,
Richard Muir
Newtown Nighthawks Soccer Club President