Long Beach State University Athletics
Getting to know Jeff Joyner
8/9/2012 12:00:00 AM | Women's Soccer
Aug. 9, 2012
1. Can you detail your coaching path to Long Beach State?
My coaching path began when I was 20 years old and a senior in college. I was diagnosed with a heart condition that would no longer allow me to play soccer. I was fortunate enough to have coaches that would let me be an assistant coach for my senior year and stay connected to the team. I continued coaching at Cal State Dominguez Hills for a total of five years before being invited to the Long Beach State staff.
2. Beyond winning a championship, what are your goals for the upcoming season?
Outside of winning a championship, one of our team goals is to play an entertaining style of soccer. We have an incredible fan base and are always try to give them a good show. We're always looking to further develop individual players, the team and help shape good people.
3. Who is an exciting new player we will see on you team next season?
There are a few newcomers that should play an important role this year, but there are two players that might standout due to their exciting style of play. One is Eileen Maes, a junior transfer from Washington State. Eileen is one of the most well-rounded players on the team and has a true winner's mentality. The other is freshman Elizabeth Lyons. "Lizzy" is one of the fastest players we've ever had and is exciting to watch.
4. What is your recruiting philosophy?
Our recruiting philosophy comes down to whether or not a player fits into our team in two categories. First, does the player fill a need and is she capable of playing at a high level? Second, does the player fit into our team chemistry and core values? If the answer is yes to both, then it's someone who we will actively pursue.
5. How important are the summer months to the development of your team?
We are not allowed to have any contact in regards to training with our team during the summer months. They are given a fitness packet to maintain their fitness through the summer season, but they also need to find outside teams to compete on. Our girls have done an excellent job of both and it allows us to move through preseason without starting from zero.
6. If someone asked you for a recommendation where to eat in the Long Beach area, where would you send them and what would you tell them to order?
I would send them to Beachwood BBQ on 3rd St. in downtown Long Beach. I would tell them to order the tater tot casserole and the sloppy joe. The tater tot casserole is made with smoked cheese curds and duck gravy. And the Sloppy Joe is made with ground buffalo, fried sage and pickled onions. Its a great menu for an adventurous eater!
7. Outside of coaching and sports, what are your hobbies?
Outside of coaching I enjoy traveling and spending time with my family.
8. If you had a weekend off during the season and you weren't allowed to work, what would you do with the free time?
If I was able to take a weekend off in season, I would spend it right in front of the television at home, watching as much college football as I could. Being a fall sport, I miss out on almost the entire college football season.
9. What vacation spot has been your favorite to visit?
I've enjoyed traveling all over Europe, but always seem to end up heading back to London to support the mighty Hammers of West Ham United!
10. Dodgers or Angels, and why? Lakers or Clippers, and why?
None of the above. I support the Milwaukee Brewers during the baseball season and Oklahoma City Thunder during the NBA season.
11. Excluding your team, what "49er Moment" from the 2011-12 season was your favorite?
Outside of women's soccer, watching the fantastic season the men's basketball team put together was a lot of fun!
