Masters Academy International Names Colin Cramer to Lead Middle School Soccer and Goalkeeper Development

Youngest head coach in ISL history brings specialized goalkeeper expertise and proven youth development model to groundbreaking academy

STOW, MA. – Masters Academy International (MAI) today announced Colin Cramer in a triple leadership role as Director of Goalkeepers, Director of Middle School Soccer, and Assistant High School Soccer Coach, bringing specialized expertise in youth development and goalkeeper training to the academy’s comprehensive soccer program. Cramer, who made history as the youngest head soccer coach in both the Independent School League (ISL) and NEPSAC, will assume these roles when the academy opens in September 2026.

“Colin’s unique combination of goalkeeper expertise, middle school development focus, and proven ability to transform programs makes him invaluable to our soccer academy,” said Peter Masters, Co-Founder and Director of Athletics at MAI. “His philosophy that every player is a leader with unique strengths to contribute perfectly aligns with our mission to develop the whole student-athlete.”

Cramer brings a diverse coaching background spanning elite prep schools and premier club programs. As Head Varsity Soccer Coach at Lawrence Academy (2024-2025), he transformed the program from 2 wins to 8 wins in just two seasons, achieving the school’s first .500 record since 2016. His coaching experience includes assistant roles at Thayer Academy and New Hampton School, along with club positions at FC Greater Boston Bolts, Seacoast United, and Becoming Elite. He also competed as a goalkeeper at Denison University and played in the United Soccer League with Seacoast United and Brockton FC United.

“Success for my athletes means developing their personal character while maintaining the balance of achieving our team goals,” said Cramer. “To build their character, you have to let your players be who they are and understand what strengths they derive from their personality and uniqueness. This comprehensive understanding provides a more meaningful perspective on what it means to be successful both in the pursuit of sport and as an individual in society.”

Cramer, who earned his Master’s in Sports Leadership from Northeastern University, has guided players to success at every level, including athletes now competing at Duke, Indiana, American, Tufts, and Wesleyan, as well as Elijah Jean Baptiste, who plays professionally for IFG Macclesfield FC in England.

“When I coach student-athletes, I make sure my training sessions are both fun and mentally exhausting while maintaining a strong level of personalized support,” Cramer explained. “An enjoyable and engaging atmosphere is essential for anyone to learn, especially kids. My training sessions will often include fun games and activities that promote love for the game while focusing on the mental aspects, including focus, motivation, and dealing with pressure.”

As Director of Middle School Soccer, Cramer will focus on building foundational skills while fostering a lifelong passion for the sport. His goalkeeper program will serve athletes across all age groups, providing specialized training in one of soccer’s most demanding positions. “Colin is an outstanding young coach and mentor to student-athletes,” said MAI Director of Boys’ Soccer James Proctor. “He has already proven himself as a successful head coach with the ability to elevate programs and develop players with purpose. Colin brings tremendous energy, technical expertise, and a genuine passion for teaching the game. He is an exciting hire for MAI and will be a valuable member of our coaching staff and our community.”

“Introducing young athletes to soccer should focus not just on skill acquisition but also on fostering a love for the game,” Cramer noted. “By creating a supportive atmosphere that celebrates effort over winning, young athletes can develop a lifelong passion for sports.”

Masters Academy International, part of Cognita’s global network of 100 schools, is pioneering a new model for student-athlete development. Located in Stow, MA, the academy combines rigorous academics with elite athletic training, providing 360-degree support to help students reach their full potential in all areas.

About Masters Academy International: Masters Academy International is a groundbreaking boarding school opening in Fall 2026 that reimagines the student-athlete experience. Offering comprehensive academic programs alongside elite training in multiple sports, MAI provides students with the tools and support to excel in the classroom, on the field, and in life. Learn more at https://www.mastersacademyinternational.com/.

Media Contact: Mackenzie Weeden, Director of Marketing, Masters Academy International, media@mastersacademyinternational.com.