Sam Harrington
Youth Development Director for Girls
Sam brings over a decade of club coaching experience to Michigan Development Academy, where she serves as Girls Youth Development Director. A former collegiate player at Ferris State University, she understands the game from both sides — as an athlete and as a coach. Her previous experience includes coaching with Liverpool International Academy and the Michigan Hawks.
Sam holds a USSF C License and has led teams to Junior State Cup Championships. Her coaching philosophy centers on hard work, discipline, and building confidence in every player. She believes athletes develop best through the freedom to take risks, make mistakes, and grow from them — and she creates environments where that process feels safe and supported.
What drew Sam to MDA is the alignment with her own values: a club that prioritizes player development, operates with transparency, and fosters a family-like culture where coaches, players, and families work toward the same goals. Her aim is always to develop confident, capable, and well-rounded young athletes — not just better soccer players.
As a wife and mother of two, Sam brings both nurturing and disciplined energy to her coaching. Her experience as a parent deepens her understanding of what young athletes need to thrive, on and off the field.