About Kicklab
Who We Are
Kicklab was born out of a passion for soccer and a desire to inspire young athletes to pursue their love for the sport. As avid soccer enthusiasts ourselves, we understand the importance of providing quality training and opportunities for kids to develop their foundational soccer skills such as passing, trapping the ball, controlling the ball and shooting on target. We believe that playing soccer can not only promote physical fitness but also teach valuable life lessons such as teamwork, discipline, and perseverance.
Cathryn Smeyers, Owner
Throughout my professional career as an educator, the learning and development of others have always been my passion.
Now, as a mom who has discovered the joys of soccer and its potential to connect us all, I see the need for a community-based place for soccer fans to come together and be around the sport we’ve come to love.
I launched Kicklab to bring the best in soccer tech from Europe to our own backyard.
Jay Bulev, Director
I started coaching in high school after an ACL injury temporarily sidelined my playing career. Volunteering gave me a way to stay connected to the game, and I quickly discovered a passion for teaching. I went on to earn my USSF coaching license and began coaching travel soccer in Wilmette.
My coaching style has been shaped by a range of experiences, including an exchange program with Italian coaches in 2004 that opened my eyes to creative, player-centered training methods. Since then, I’ve focused on developing young players through high-level, engaging sessions that emphasize both skill and love for the game.
I’ve worked with youth, high school, and D1 college athletes, and I currently serve as the head coach of the varsity girls team at Stevenson High School. As the Director of Kicklab, I’m excited to pair innovative coaching with cutting-edge soccer technology to give players a truly unique and impactful training experience.
Over the years, I’ve had countless conversations with families and players about training, development, and finding the right path forward. If you're curious to hear more of my perspective, I share thoughts and tips in the “Ask Coach Jay” column — read the latest or submit your own question here.