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Matt Bolduc Joins Grove United Coaching Staff

Grove United is proud to welcome Matt Bolduc to our coaching staff. Coach Bolduc brings over a decade of professional playing experience across multiple leagues in the United States, along with a deep passion for player development and a commitment to high standards within a competitive environment.



Matt Bolduc Joins Grove United Coaching Staff


Professional Playing Career & Clubs


Coach Bolduc began his professional career in 2015, building a career defined by consistency, work rate, and leadership. Over the past 10+ years, he has competed across the American professional landscape, gaining valuable experience at multiple levels of the game.


Professional Clubs:


  • Harrisburg City Islanders (2016 – USL Championship)


  • Richmond Kickers (2017–2022 – USL League One)


  • Flower City Union (2023 – NISA)


  • Richmond Kickers (2025 – USL League One)


During his time with the Richmond Kickers, Matt made over 100 professional appearances. Known primarily as a wide midfielder/winger, he built his career on tactical intelligence, relentless work rate, and a competitive mentality that elevated those around him.


“Coach Bolduc brings a level of professionalism, experience, and competitive mentality that will have a meaningful impact on our players and the environment we continue to build at Grove United. Having someone who has spent over a decade competing in professional environments provides our players with real insight into the standards, habits, and mindset required to reach the next level. Just as importantly, Coach Bolduc understands that development is built through daily discipline, accountability, and a commitment to constant improvement. We’re excited to welcome him to Grove United and look forward to the impact he will have on our players," says club president Justin Grove.


Coach Bolduc is USSF licensed and brings over 10 years of coaching experience to Grove United. His coaching approach reflects the standards he upheld throughout his professional career. He believes development is intentional and built through daily habits, accountability, and attention to detail.


Coach Bolduc is passionate about helping players understand the demands of higher levels of the game while building confidence in their individual abilities. His sessions emphasize competitive intensity, technical quality, and strong decision-making in match-realistic environments.


We are excited to welcome Coach Matt Bolduc to Grove United and look forward to the leadership, professionalism, and experience he will bring to our players and families.

 
 

Grove Soccer Expands to the Valley, Introducing Grove Academy West


Grove Soccer is proud to announce the launch of Grove Academy West, bringing our high-performance training environment, individualized development model, and proven player pathway to the Shenandoah Valley.


Building on our success in Richmond, Virginia, and our international programs in Paarl and Cape Town, South Africa, this expansion marks the next step in Grove Soccer’s commitment to identifying, developing, and elevating young soccer talent in communities across the globe.


⁠“Every Grove location shares one vision — to provide a professional environment where players can reach their full potential,” said Justin Grove, Founder & President of Grove United. “We’re excited to bring that same culture of excellence to Harrisonburg and create new opportunities for players to train, compete, and grow within a clear pathway to the next level.”


Grove Academy West will begin competition in the UPSL Academy League starting January 2026, offering advanced technical training, tactical development, and personalized growth plans modeled after professional club standards for players U13–U20.


With locations now in Richmond (VA), Harrisonburg (VA), Paarl (South Africa), and Cape Town (South Africa), Grove Soccer continues to expand its development network — providing players with meaningful pathways to success right here in Virginia and around the world.


⚽️ First Tryout: Sunday, December 7

📍 Horizon Sports Complex, Harrisonburg, VA

 
 

Grove United Expands Leadership Team with New Academy Director


Grove United is thrilled to announce Luca Thabet as our new Academy Director, reinforcing our commitment to excellence in youth development and player pathways.


Coach Luca joins Grove United from MLS NEXT club Sporting Springfield, where he served as a Director of Coaching, leading high-level player development and coaching education initiatives at the top tier of U.S. youth soccer.


With over eight years of head coaching experience across all ages and genders, Luca brings a deep passion for leadership, mentorship, and giving back through the game.


Throughout his career, he has held multiple leadership roles, including Director of Coaching, Assistant Director of Coaching (Boys & Girls), Club Manager, ADP Director, and Founder/Director of Futsal United.


Coaching Credentials:

•⁠ ⁠U.S. Soccer B License (A License Candidate)

•⁠ ⁠United Soccer Coaches Premier Diploma

•⁠ ⁠Director of Coaching Diploma

•⁠ ⁠Advanced Youth Coaching Diploma

•⁠ ⁠Professional Diploma from FC Barcelona


He has also completed specialized tactical certifications through Formative Football in High Press, Building from the Defensive Third, and Observation Methodology in Formative Football.


From playing futsal in Egypt to competing semi-professionally with Charlottesville FC and Grove United, Luca has dedicated his life to the beautiful game.


“After speaking with Coach Luca, it was clear that his vision and methodology perfectly align with the direction of Grove United,” said Justin Grove, President of Grove United. “He loves and cares deeply about this community, and returning home to Richmond to serve it means a great deal to him. His expertise and passion for player development will help uplift our academy, elevate the standard across every level, and play a key role in taking Grove United to the next stage of growth.”


“From the first conversation, it was evident that our philosophies on coaching and player development were completely aligned,” said Coach Luca Thabet. “I’m excited to return home and contribute to the continued growth of Grove United — helping the club push from strength to strength and providing players with the environment they need to reach their full potential.”


We are excited to welcome Coach Luca to Grove United. His extensive experience, educational background, and passion for player development will play a vital role in elevating our academy and shaping the next generation of Grove United talent.


 
 
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