Bobby McAvan

Experience matters. So does knowing how to teach. Bobby McAvan brings decades of professional playing, championship coaching, and player-development experience to Maryland Sports Arena.

A Lifetime in Soccer

Born in Dundee, Scotland, to German and Scottish parents, Bobby has spent more than 40 years in the Baltimore area playing, coaching, teaching, and promoting soccer. His career has taken him across three countries, including representing Scotland at the junior level and Canada at the Olympic level.

Bobby has won national titles in Canada and the United States. In Baltimore, he became part of the city's professional soccer history as a member of the first Baltimore Blast championship team and later as head coach of a Baltimore Blast MISL championship team.

From Championship Player to Championship Coach

Bobby's career gives him a perspective few instructors can offer: he understands the game from both sides of the sideline. He knows the technical demands placed on players and the preparation, decision-making, and confidence required to succeed as a team.

His work in soccer has included professional coaching, television and radio color commentary, community relations, directing summer soccer camps in Baltimore and Ocean City, and evaluating players for Johns Hopkins women's soccer ID camps.

Teaching the Next Generation

At Maryland Sports Arena, Bobby serves as Director of Player Training. His approach is built around realistic goals, sound fundamentals, consistent practice, and helping each player understand where improvement is needed.

Whether a player is just learning the game or preparing for competitive tryouts, Bobby focuses on the skills that translate to better play: first touch, ball control, passing, receiving, dribbling, finishing, decision-making, and confidence under pressure.

Recognition and Respect

Bobby's achievements have been recognized throughout the soccer community, including Baltimore Magazine's Best Coach Award. His championship coaching success drew praise from legendary coach Kenny Cooper, and his ability to inspire players was recognized in coverage by The Baltimore Sun.