Ben Townsend
Coaching Licenses / Certifications
D License
Coaching Experience
Head Coach, Girls Varsity Soccer, Wilde Lake High School (2025 - Present)
Head Coach, Football Club Ellicott City, Girls Elite (2026 - Present)
Head Coach, Ellicott City Soccer Club Rec 2019 (2022 - Present)
Director, Ellicott City Soccer Club Summer Camp (2025 - Present)
Head Coach, Ellicott City Soccer Club Girls 2014 Yellow (2022 - 2026)
Head Coach, Howard County Hurricanes Summer Rugby 2014 (2019 - Present)
Head Coach, JV Boys Soccer, Wilde Lake High School (2014 - 2018)
Head Coach, JV Boys Baseball, Wilde Lake High School (2014 - 2018)
Head Coach, SAC 2014 Rec (2021 - 2022)
Playing Experience
High School, Centennial High School
Intramural Leagues, University of Maryland
Adult Men's Leagues, Howard County
How would you describe your coaching philosophy and approach to player development?
Soccer is a game. That is what brings players out to the field week after week. I believe that the game teaches some of life's most important skills. Soccer puts players in challenging situations where they can learn how to solve problems and be decision makers. Soccer prepares kids for a future of success in all aspects of their lives, including athletics, academics, and family/friends. Soccer helps players to reach their fullest potential and challenges them to improve. Soccer teaches acceptance, tolerance, and respect for others. My goal as a soccer educator is to keep players interested in soccer by building foundational skills and cultivating a growth mindset. With the right attitude, the players will build their confidence and capacity to play the game.
What do you believe is the most important thing young players should learn from the game?
I am a National Board Certified Educator at Wilde Lake High School in Howard County with 20+ years of experience teaching, coaching, and mentoring. I believe that preparing young people for the future means teaching them leadership, perseverance, creativity, and teamwork. What better place to build future decision makers than on the soccer pitch!
What excites you most about coaching in FC Ellicott City?
FC Ellicott City is a club that creates an environment that develops the whole person, not just athletic skills. It values development and growth over winning and emphasizes sportsmanship as a key value.
What do you hope players take away from their experience playing for your team?
I believe in the well being of every athlete, which includes their success in school and life as well as their overall happiness. I believe in a soccer program that inspires growth, well being, and excellence for every player both on and off the field.