Brian Kallman Joins Joy

Joy of the People, a non-profit a 501 (c)(3) that promotes the idea of free play as a way to build healthy kids and communities is excited to introduce Brian Kallman as Woodbury Director of Play.

Brian will lead the exciting conversion of the old Fun Zone roller rink into a world class play space for kids, adults and families. Brian is an experienced youth coach at a variety of ages that has played nine years professionally. He has amazing ties to the soccer community, and is recognized for building strong relationships with players, parents and staff--motivating and developing players as leaders both on and off the field.

More About Brian

A Woodbury native, Brian had a distinguished professional soccer career in Minnesota spanning 9 years, and has had the pleasure to compete with, and against, some remarkable athletes including Romario (1994 World Cup Golden Ball winner, 1994 FIFA Player of the Year). He played against many top-level teams including: MLS teams: Sporting Kansas City, Real Salt Lake, and San Jose Earthquakes; English Premier League's Swansea City; and Liga MX's Club Leon. His pro career included time in Canada, Puerto Rico, England, Brazil, and throughout the United States.

Throughtout his playing career, Brian enjoyed coaching with Woodbury Soccer Club/Salvo for 12 years. He spent 10 years at Woodbury High School as a boys assistant coach and in 2019 took over as Head of the St. Thomas Academy Soccer Program/Varsity Head Coach. Brian has coached/trained over 350* players from 30 different clubs. Some past players are now playing in the MLS Next, US Development Academy, NCAA Division III, NCAA Division II, and 30 players that played NCAA Division I.

Why did you want to work at Joy of the People?

"I want it to be all about the kids, to give them space and allow them to be creative, Joy is great at that. I want it to be FUN for the kids, FUN with all caps."

Why do you coach?

"I love this game, I love that it's fast, that it takes critical thinking, I love the relationships it fosters, that the game is a vehicle to grow the person."

What are your goals for the new Woodbury space?

"I see a simple, inclusive space where all are invited to participate in an atmosphere of fun. We will have programs and leagues for men's and women, coed, girls and boys-- from pre K kids to adult."

How do I sign up?

"Everyone can participate, if you want to play, we will have a space for you. We will have futsal, skill programs, Free play, inflatables, and a lot more. Anyone can go to the site Joyofthepeople.org to find out more and sign up."