Coach Rating: Erik Burstein at Kutztown University of Pennsylvania

Women's Soccer

Erik Burstein

Women's Soccer Head Coach

Kutztown University of Pennsylvania

NCAA DII • Orange Empire | OEC

Stay Away From This Coach!!!

Date: April 14, 2025

By Parent

1.6

Overall

Caring

Motivational

Knowledgeable

Honest

3.5

3.4

3.3

3.8

3.4

Tags

"Stay away from this Coach he has serious control issues. If your daughter makes one mistake and don’t do exactly what he wants he will tear them up at practice in front of the team just to prove his point. Your daughter will not be able to play without having fear of making a mistake with this coach. Don’t buy his sales pitch about your daughter being his top recruit because he will tell them exactly want they want to hear! I am thankful my daughter got out of there before it was too late!!!"

0

Women's Soccer

Erik Burstein

Women's Soccer Head Coach

Kutztown University of Pennsylvania

NCAA DII • Orange Empire | OEC

Find A Better Option For Your Child!

Date: January 31, 2025

By Parent

1.8

Overall

Caring

Motivational

Knowledgeable

Honest

3.5

3.4

3.3

3.8

3.4

Tags

Knowledgeable Knows The Game Passionate About Coaching Dedicated To Players Organized

"I just read the comments” if it seems too good to be true then it probably is……” and I couldn’t have said it better myself. My daughter wasted four years playing for this coach and I use the word playing loosely because she never actually got to play. I understand that this is not Recreational soccer, Everybody doesn’t get equal and fair play time but the lying and manipulation and confidence crushing that goes on on this team is horrendous. Every year you get promised that you will have your time to shine if you keep improving but he is never looking to play you and is just leading you along for four years. He doesn’t let girls get creative on the ball so they lose their confidence. He doesn’t trust his team to make the right decisions. He over recruits for the team and doesn’t care about the consequences of having 30+ girls that are all talented having their hopes and dreams, crushed. He continues to lie and string them along. He is more concerned about whether the backpacks are lined up evenly or whether your child is wearing the right shorts to practice than he is over their mental well-being. I’m sure all the positive reviews that are written by girls and parents who had children’s that were starters because he tends to kiss those kids asses. But that’s only a very small percentage of the team. The rest of the girls are bonding on the bench over their misery. My daughter has often said she wish she had chosen a different university and a different team to play for. She did love her teammates, but gave up her opportunity to play college soccer when she went there. Although he has a strong record, I truly believe they have never won anything significant because he is so rigid in his ways of thinking. I do not recommend playing for this man."

0

Women's Soccer

Erik Burstein

Women's Soccer Head Coach

Kutztown University of Pennsylvania

NCAA DII • Orange Empire | OEC

Ku Is A Great Program And My Daughter Thrived Under This Coach

Date: January 5, 2025

By Other

5.0

Overall

Caring

Motivational

Knowledgeable

Honest

3.5

3.4

3.3

3.8

3.4

Tags

Knowledgeable Knows The Game Passionate About Coaching Dedicated To Players Organized

"Our daughter had a fantastic experience at KU and thrived under Coach Burstein. She understood expectations before she stepped on the field and worked very hard on her fitness skill levels as she really wanted play time. The PSAC is an extremely hard league with many good teams playing physical matches. Playtime is not guaranteed and he will play his top players. She developed strong leadership and communication skills under Coach and strong bonds with her teammates. KU is a great program and a hidden gem."

0

Women's Soccer

Erik Burstein

Women's Soccer Head Coach

Kutztown University of Pennsylvania

NCAA DII • Orange Empire | OEC

Please Listen To Your Gut If It Sounds Too Good To Be True, It Is.

Date: October 1, 2024

By Parent

1.0

Overall

Caring

Motivational

Knowledgeable

Honest

3.5

3.4

3.3

3.8

3.4

Tags

Knowledgeable Knows The Game Passionate About Coaching Dedicated To Players Organized

"Please, please listen to these ratings. I wish I did. He told me that they were from "one player's mom who never played." Trust me, every word is true- whether you are playing or not. This coach promises the world during recruiting and they are all lies. He promises low recruiting classes, then doubles the size. He pushes you to commit early saying he has "almost wrapped up recruiting" and then continues to recruit for months after. Just as soon as he recruits you and tells you how wonderful you are, he then tells you that there is a new freshman class that will be better than you. He barely subs -for no good reason if you look at the amount of goals scored-, has limited soccer knowledge, but above all, is emotionally abusive to the players and a loose cannon. Again, this includes his starters down the line. We are only half way through the freshmen season and it has been hell for not only the freshmen, but most of the team. He pits players against each other, bullying and hazing is rampant, and he appears unhinged. If you report anything, he uses it against the player. He will tell players that they have potential and need to keep working, and the next minute that they will never play and to transfer. There are no examples on how to improve, his practices are a joke with relatively no shooting or set-piece practices (one of the latest games there were 18 corner kicks with one finish), he micro manages every shot, every touch- so much that the players lose confidence with every passing minute. In addition, I have no idea what the assistant coach's role is there. There is no support or advice from her either- she seems afraid of him. If your gut is telling you that something is off, if you have committed and he continues to take players- back out!!!! Go explore other offers. Do NOT let him manipulate you. This is a coach that has been here too long, is unraveling, and truly thinks he is worth more than he is. "

1

Women's Soccer

Erik Burstein

Women's Soccer Head Coach

Kutztown University of Pennsylvania

NCAA DII • Orange Empire | OEC

Excited For What Is To Come

Date: September 2, 2024

By Other

5.0

Overall

Caring

Motivational

Knowledgeable

Honest

3.5

3.4

3.3

3.8

3.4

Tags

Knowledgeable Knows The Game Passionate About Coaching Dedicated To Players Organized

"Coach is very good. I have enjoyed playing for him so far and have learned plenty. I am excited for my future in this program and feel I have made a great choice with my decision to play here and for coach. Love the program, the girls and the culture. This has been a great experience."

0

Women's Soccer

Erik Burstein

Women's Soccer Head Coach

Kutztown University of Pennsylvania

NCAA DII • Orange Empire | OEC

Very Positive Experience Playing For This Coach

Date: July 29, 2024

By Other

4.4

Overall

Caring

Motivational

Knowledgeable

Honest

3.5

3.4

3.3

3.8

3.4

Tags

Knowledgeable Knows The Game Passionate About Coaching Dedicated To Players Organized

"My experience has been very positive. Coach is understanding and values academics allowing us to miss training if needed to focus on school. He is also always available if you need to speak with him. Very good coach who is extremely knowledgeable about the game. He will hold you accountable to standards, but can play favorites. "

0

Women's Soccer

Erik Burstein

Women's Soccer Head Coach

Kutztown University of Pennsylvania

NCAA DII • Orange Empire | OEC

It’s Not All About Soccer

Date: May 22, 2024

By Other

4.6

Overall

Caring

Motivational

Knowledgeable

Honest

3.5

3.4

3.3

3.8

3.4

Tags

Knowledgeable Knows The Game Passionate About Coaching Dedicated To Players Organized

"Coach is always there when you need him and not just for soccer. He cares about you as a person and he always finds time to meet with you when you are going through something. He has helped me so much and he is an awesome coach"

0

Women's Soccer

Erik Burstein

Women's Soccer Head Coach

Kutztown University of Pennsylvania

NCAA DII • Orange Empire | OEC

Good Coach Poor Motivator. Better Rotation Would Motivate Players To Stay Fit

Date: April 24, 2024

By Other

4.2

Overall

Caring

Motivational

Knowledgeable

Honest

3.5

3.4

3.3

3.8

3.4

Tags

Knowledgeable Knows The Game Passionate About Coaching Dedicated To Players Organized

"I have really enjoyed my time playing for coach Burstein. You can tell he puts a lot of time into his job and his knowledge of the game is great. Despite his coaching ability and passion for coaching, he isn’t a great motivator. Once he has established his starters, it’s hard to get on the field which makes it hard to stay motivated. Then he expects you to be fit. Hard to be fit when you don’t play. "

0

Women's Soccer

Erik Burstein

Women's Soccer Head Coach

Kutztown University of Pennsylvania

NCAA DII • Orange Empire | OEC

Passionate And Knowledgeable Coach

Date: March 4, 2024

By Other

5.0

Overall

Caring

Motivational

Knowledgeable

Honest

3.5

3.4

3.3

3.8

3.4

Tags

Knowledgeable Knows The Game Passionate About Coaching Dedicated To Players Organized

"Coach is passionate about the team and cares so much about the players. He’s always available when you need him and he is supportive with everything you need. He is also an excellent coach. I’ve learned so much from him and I continue to get better from the way he coaches the entire team. He pushes you to be the best and he has very high standards. Big on details and winning is extremely important to the program. "

0

Women's Soccer

Erik Burstein

Women's Soccer Head Coach

Kutztown University of Pennsylvania

NCAA DII • Orange Empire | OEC

I’ve Developed So Much In Such A Short Amount Of Time

Date: January 17, 2024

By Other

4.6

Overall

Caring

Motivational

Knowledgeable

Honest

3.5

3.4

3.3

3.8

3.4

Tags

Knowledgeable Knows The Game Passionate About Coaching Dedicated To Players Organized

"Really enjoy playing for coach Erik and I’m always learning something new. Details are super important and he creates a great environment to develop and learn. "

0

Women's Soccer

Erik Burstein

Women's Soccer Head Coach

Kutztown University of Pennsylvania

NCAA DII • Orange Empire | OEC

Couldn't Be Happier

Date: December 12, 2023

By Other

5.0

Overall

Caring

Motivational

Knowledgeable

Honest

3.5

3.4

3.3

3.8

3.4

Tags

Knowledgeable Knows The Game Passionate About Coaching Dedicated To Players Organized

"My daughter is extremely happy playing for Kutztown University and Coach Burstein. It is evident that he cares deeply for the players and he creates a tremendous culture that my daughter often refers to. We are very pleased with her experience so far! "

0

Women's Soccer

Erik Burstein

Women's Soccer Head Coach

Kutztown University of Pennsylvania

NCAA DII • Orange Empire | OEC

Passionate Coach With Unmatched Knowledge Of The Game

Date: December 11, 2023

By Other

5.0

Overall

Caring

Motivational

Knowledgeable

Honest

3.5

3.4

3.3

3.8

3.4

Tags

Knowledgeable Knows The Game Passionate About Coaching Dedicated To Players Organized

"He is the best coach I have played for. He has such a passion for coaching and cares so much for every player on the team. Works hard and wants to be win. "

0

Women's Soccer

Erik Burstein

Women's Soccer Head Coach

Kutztown University of Pennsylvania

NCAA DII • Orange Empire | OEC

Hands Down The Best Coach I Have Played For

Date: November 26, 2023

By Other

4.8

Overall

Caring

Motivational

Knowledgeable

Honest

3.5

3.4

3.3

3.8

3.4

Tags

Knowledgeable Knows The Game Passionate About Coaching Dedicated To Players Organized

"I can’t say enough about this coach, he’s incredible. Everything from the team culture he creates, tactics and player development is just so structured and organized. "

0

Women's Soccer

Erik Burstein

Women's Soccer Head Coach

Kutztown University of Pennsylvania

NCAA DII • Orange Empire | OEC

Awesome To Play For

Date: November 17, 2023

By Other

5.0

Overall

Caring

Motivational

Knowledgeable

Honest

3.5

3.4

3.3

3.8

3.4

Tags

Knowledgeable Knows The Game Passionate About Coaching Dedicated To Players Organized

"So proud to have been a part of this program! Coach puts an enormous amount of time into his job and the results prove it. He was awesome to play for and I would do it all over again! "

1

Women's Soccer

Erik Burstein

Women's Soccer Head Coach

Kutztown University of Pennsylvania

NCAA DII • Orange Empire | OEC

Awesome Coach With A Clear Philosophy On How To Build A Winning Program

Date: November 14, 2023

By Other

5.0

Overall

Caring

Motivational

Knowledgeable

Honest

3.5

3.4

3.3

3.8

3.4

Tags

Knowledgeable Knows The Game Passionate About Coaching Dedicated To Players Organized

"Coach Burnstein runs a nationally competitive program where you need to meet standards on fitness, style of play and behavior. All the players are made aware of this and are held accountable to it. The culture is strong and the players totally buy into the way this program operates. Great environment, great coaching and great team. "

0

Women's Soccer

Erik Burstein

Women's Soccer Head Coach

Kutztown University of Pennsylvania

NCAA DII • Orange Empire | OEC

Do Not Let Your Daughter Be Coached By Him!!!

Date: October 12, 2023

By Other

1.6

Overall

Caring

Motivational

Knowledgeable

Honest

3.5

3.4

3.3

3.8

3.4

Tags

Knowledgeable Knows The Game Passionate About Coaching Dedicated To Players Organized

"Manipulator, completely dishonest, mentally abusive! Very knowledgeable of the game and will completely lie to you!"

-10

Women's Soccer

Erik Burstein

Women's Soccer Head Coach

Kutztown University of Pennsylvania

NCAA DII • Orange Empire | OEC

He Will Make You A Better Player

Date: October 12, 2023

By Other

4.4

Overall

Caring

Motivational

Knowledgeable

Honest

3.5

3.4

3.3

3.8

3.4

Tags

Knowledgeable Knows The Game Passionate About Coaching Dedicated To Players Organized

"Loved playing for him and would recommend to anyone looking for a coach who can help you improve. "

1

Women's Soccer

Erik Burstein

Women's Soccer Head Coach

Kutztown University of Pennsylvania

NCAA DII • Orange Empire | OEC

Excellent Coach

Date: October 6, 2023

By Other

5.0

Overall

Caring

Motivational

Knowledgeable

Honest

3.5

3.4

3.3

3.8

3.4

Tags

Knowledgeable Knows The Game Passionate About Coaching Dedicated To Players Organized

"Coach is smart an knows the game very well. He cares about the team and about winning games. He is very prepared for practices and games and makes adjustments when necessary. He takes time to meet with players and check in with them frequently. Could use his subs more. Team culture is great and I love the girls on the team. "

1

Women's Soccer

Erik Burstein

Women's Soccer Head Coach

Kutztown University of Pennsylvania

NCAA DII • Orange Empire | OEC

Everything I Expected

Date: October 2, 2023

By Other

4.4

Overall

Caring

Motivational

Knowledgeable

Honest

3.5

3.4

3.3

3.8

3.4

Tags

Knowledgeable Knows The Game Passionate About Coaching Dedicated To Players Organized

"Got what I expected from coach on an off the field. Overall good experience and liked playing for him. "

0

Women's Soccer

Erik Burstein

Women's Soccer Head Coach

Kutztown University of Pennsylvania

NCAA DII • Orange Empire | OEC

Proof Is In The Results

Date: October 1, 2023

By Other

5.0

Overall

Caring

Motivational

Knowledgeable

Honest

3.5

3.4

3.3

3.8

3.4

Tags

Knowledgeable Knows The Game Passionate About Coaching Dedicated To Players Organized

"Year after year this program is one of the best in the country. Doesn’t happen on accident. Always competitive and always has good players. Organized and structured. Fun to watch. "

0

Women's Soccer

Erik Burstein

Women's Soccer Head Coach

Kutztown University of Pennsylvania

NCAA DII • Orange Empire | OEC

For What Its Worth

Date: September 24, 2023

By Other

5.0

Overall

Caring

Motivational

Knowledgeable

Honest

3.5

3.4

3.3

3.8

3.4

Tags

Knowledgeable Knows The Game Passionate About Coaching Dedicated To Players Organized

"Reading some of these posts on Coach Burstein is really disheartening. Having personal experience with this program, I always question players who want to claim that Coach Burstein creates an environment where anyone is in an abusive setting. The straight fact is that all of these complaints are most likely from parents or players who don't or did not get much playing time. College athletics is not a rec sport and it is also optional! Players do not have to stay in an environment where they claim it is not good for their mental health. I think it is questionable and unreasonable that anyone would stay in this optional position for 4 years if it was really that bad, which makes the validity of these posts suspect. Coach Burstein and his coaching staff have been nothing but the utmost professional, dedicated, caring, passionate, and committed team of coaches I have ever been a part of! I advise anyone who hasn't had a favorable experience with this talented team of coaches to leave and look elsewhere. No one has to stay in an environment you are not happy in."

6

Women's Soccer

Erik Burstein

Women's Soccer Head Coach

Kutztown University of Pennsylvania

NCAA DII • Orange Empire | OEC

Do Not Continue Your Career At Ku

Date: September 23, 2023

By Other

1.0

Overall

Caring

Motivational

Knowledgeable

Honest

3.5

3.4

3.3

3.8

3.4

Tags

Knowledgeable Knows The Game Passionate About Coaching Dedicated To Players Organized

"I played for Erik all four years and I would not recommend him to anyone. He was manipulative and mentally abusive to all of his players. "

-9

Women's Soccer

Erik Burstein

Women's Soccer Head Coach

Kutztown University of Pennsylvania

NCAA DII • Orange Empire | OEC

Very Good Coach.

Date: September 22, 2023

By Other

4.8

Overall

Caring

Motivational

Knowledgeable

Honest

3.5

3.4

3.3

3.8

3.4

Tags

Knowledgeable Knows The Game Passionate About Coaching Dedicated To Players Organized

"Coach is great! Always prepared, knows a lot about soccer, checks in with players often, passionate about the program and wants the team to be successful. He puts a lot of time into his job and he is very smart. "

0

Women's Soccer

Erik Burstein

Women's Soccer Head Coach

Kutztown University of Pennsylvania

NCAA DII • Orange Empire | OEC

Grateful For The Time I Played For Him

Date: September 21, 2023

By Other

5.0

Overall

Caring

Motivational

Knowledgeable

Honest

3.5

3.4

3.3

3.8

3.4

Tags

Knowledgeable Knows The Game Passionate About Coaching Dedicated To Players Organized

"I am an alumna of Rutgers-Newark (2004-2005) and played for coach Burstein during his brief spell at RUN. He took over a failing program with deep issues and brought us immediate success. His ability to adapt was out of this world and his knowledge and understanding of how to instruct the players was something special. We were all devastated when he left, but deep down we all knew he had the talent to coach at a much higher level. He is the best coach I have ever played for and I am forever grateful for what he taught me and our team. Not surprised to see all his success at Kutztown. He is exceptional on so many levels! "

7

Women's Soccer

Erik Burstein

Women's Soccer Head Coach

Kutztown University of Pennsylvania

NCAA DII • Orange Empire | OEC

He Changed Kutztown Soccer For The Better

Date: September 10, 2023

By Other

5.0

Overall

Caring

Motivational

Knowledgeable

Honest

3.5

3.4

3.3

3.8

3.4

Tags

Knowledgeable Knows The Game Passionate About Coaching Dedicated To Players Organized

"I played for coach Burstein during his first two years at KU (2007-2008) and have been following the team since. There is no surprise to see KU having tremendous success under his guidance because coach is exceptional. He came to KU at a time the program was a mess. He had a clear vision for what he wanted to achieve and how he was going to get there. He had a plan for all the players and he had clear expectations. He also held everyone accountable. His knowledge of the game and his ability to adapt game plans to help the team is incredible. He always found ways for our team to be successful and he cared deeply about the program from day one. Kutztown soccer is where it is today because of coach and I am proud to say I was a Golden Bear. Just wish he had coached the team all four years of my career there. "

13

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• Coach & Staff

Erik Burstein Review

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