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

Kicklab 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.

Grace Mangel

Kicklab Juniors Director



My background in early childhood education has shaped the way I coach and connect with young children. After studying Elementary Education at TCU, I worked as an Assistant Preschool Teacher, supporting children ages 2–5 in a play-based learning environment. I also coach youth volleyball and have experience leading children's recreation and swim programs.

I believe children learn best when they feel safe, supported, and excited to participate. I love helping young players develop coordination, teamwork, listening skills, and self-confidence while creating a fun, encouraging environment where every child can be successful. I hold certifications in Youth Mental Health First Aid, Supporting Children and Youth Experiencing Trauma, Advanced Child Care Training, and First Aid/CPR/AED, and I'm passionate about helping children grow socially, emotionally, and physically through positive movement and play.