THE PEOPLE BEHIND
THE PROGRAM.
"We don't just develop athletes. We build the discipline, resilience, and character that performs at the highest level of life."
40 Years.
One Standard.
Thomas Niendorf is a highly experienced German soccer coach with a Uefa Pro Licence education and with more than 40 years experience in player development. He has built a strong reputation for identifying, train, mentoring young athletes and helping them progress toward professional opportunities.
His background includes involvement with respected European environments such as FC Bayern Munich, BFC Dynamo, as well as building and leading residency-style development programs in Canada, including with the Vancouver Whitecaps and Victoria Highlanders FC.
Thomas is known for implementing a professional, European Elite Academy standard in his work with players focused on game intelligence, technical development and long term player growth.
Coaching
Leadership.
Jan Roeth has been an integral part of the Victoria Highlanders since 2022, bringing a high-performance mindset and a strong commitment to elite player development. Holding a B.A. in Social Work and a UEFA B Coaching Licence, Jan combines professional coaching expertise with a deep understanding of the personal growth required to succeed in demanding football environments.
With multiple years of experience working with youth players in the German Bundesliga academy of DSC Arminia Bielefeld, Jan offers valuable insight into the standards, discipline, and detail required at the highest levels of the game.
His coaching philosophy is centered on developing complete athletes — technically refined, tactically intelligent, mentally resilient. As Head of Homestay, Jan also ensures every player has the personal support and structure they need living away from home.
Team Members
Paul Jaswal
Teacher
In 2016, Paul Jaswal joined the Victoria Highlanders to help students continue to grow off the field as they are on the field. He is familiar with all education programs from high schools in Ont., Man., Sask., Alb., and BC. Paul is willing to do extra when players needing help with course work, invigilating exams, or preparing for SAT's if they are pursuing the NCAA route. He is a high school Maths/Sciences teacher, who also works at a local College and has co-wrote a Maths textbook. He is described by past players as “knowledgeable, funny, and always has your best interest at heart and willing to help you succeed on and off the pitch.”
Sam Mc’coll
Strengths & Conditioning
Sam McColl is a Certified Strength and Conditioning Specialist with a BSc. in Kinesiology from Camosun College. He began his career with an internship at MCP, where he later became a full-time coach.
Sam has worked with athletes in hockey, soccer, baseball, lacrosse, and rugby, coaching teams like PCHA, Belmont High School, and JDF Hockey. He also has experience in personal training and group fitness.
Passionate about weight training and Jiu-Jitsu, Sam applies a science-backed, well-rounded approach. Sam works to enhance strength, endurance, and mobility, helping athletes and individuals reach their full potential on and off the field.
Coached by People
Who Have Done It.
Built in the European System
Our coaches bring firsthand experience from FC Bayern Munich, Berliner FC Dynamo, and the German academy system at DSC Arminia Bielefeld. That level of training shapes every session here in Victoria.
Direct Mentorship
Every player is coached directly by Thomas Niendorf. No intermediaries. No assistant-led groups. Your son is known by name, followed closely in his development, and mentored personally every week.
Family Communication
Parents are never left guessing. Regular updates, clear communication, and direct access to program leadership are part of the standard. When something matters, you hear it directly and without delay.