Aronson and Deastrela Join Lasell Men's Soccer Staff

NEWTON, Mass. (8/15/16) – Head men's soccer coach Michael Haynes has named Matthew Aronson and Rich Daestrela as his two assistant coaches for the upcoming season.

"Matt and Rich are two outstanding soccer minds. I'm delighted they accepted my invitation to join my staff," said Haynes.

Aronson is a 2005 Williams College graduate, where he received his Bachelor's degree in Political Economy before completing his Masters in Public Policy at Harvard University.  A three-year starter and '04 captain for the Ephs, Aronson served as an influential defender and dedicated member of the Williams men's soccer team. After graduation, Aronson served as a volunteer assistant under head coach Mike Russo.

Soon after, Aronson entered the United States Peace Crops as a Youth Development Volunteer, where he founded the "Open World" organization dedicated to mobilize community support for youth development in the Ukraine. As a result, Aronson raised $70,000 for local youth development from both public and private local, national, and international sources.

Aronson returns to his hometown, Newton, Mass. alongside Haynes, who coached Aronson in his younger years.

"Matt is a bright intuitive individual who always gives 100% effort no matter what task he's performing, and is committed to the plight of those less fortunate among us," said Haynes.

Daestrela, a fitness and soccer guru, graduated from Salem State University in 1993 with a Bachelor of Science degree in Sports Medicine. With an extensive coaching background, Daestrela presently serves as Director of Coaching for New England Rush FC. "He teaches the game as well as life skills that helps the young men he's coaching transition smoothly to adulthood," said Haynes. Daestrela has coached in the Olympic Development Program since 1998, and has a widespread experience also coaching club and high school soccer.

Daestrela is a B licensed coach from the United States Soccer Federation, and holds a national diploma for the National Soccer Coaches Association of America (NSCAA).

"As head coach, I've hit a homerun with these two fine young coaches," said Haynes. "I'm looking forward to a bright future for Lasell Soccer."

The Lasers kick off the 2016 season with a home game against Springfield College on Friday, September 2 with kickoff slated for 4:00 p.m.