CARSON, Calif. — U.S. U17 Men’s National Team head coach Richie Williams quickly found himself in the seat one of the most high profile positions with the youth national team back in 2012.

After the departure of Wilmer Cabrera, Williams was promoted from the U18 MNT coach to the top spot with the squad down in Bradenton, Florida. The next 18 months were up-and-down, as the U.S. U17 program enjoyed highs at the Nike Friendlies but also suffered a low with failing to qualify for the World Cup for the first time earlier this year.

This week, Williams and the U17 MNT were in Southern California for a camp before heading off to Japan for an international tournament. The head coach talked with TopDrawerSoccer.com about what he learned from that first cycle in charge and what he will take with him into the next cycle, which will begin in August.