Thrown into the mix without so much as a grace period, coach Bill Swartz is guiding the U17/18 LA Galaxy, and from the sounds of him he’s already molding the group into his own.

Swartz is just three weeks into his interim coaching role with the US Development Academy squad, having taken over for the departed Warren Barton. And while Swartz won’t likely become the permanent coach because of his head job at Pomona College, that doesn’t mean he isn’t taking full ownership of the role.

“I’m trying to get the team to understand the demands of playing the game at the next level, and get them to a point where they buy into it and enjoy those demands,” Swartz said. “I was given good information before coming to this team and obviously I need to put my mark on it.”

The Galaxy have gone 1-2 thus far since the coaching change, and Swartz wasn’t particularly overjoyed with the one victory either.

“Even there I thought we gave up a number of counterattacks that came down to us not being in the right positions while attacking and defending,” Swartz said. “I’ve been a little disappointed thus far, to be honest.”

But Swartz is also encouraged, as he should be. The Galaxy (8-10-2) is a talented team that features gifted players like Dersu Abolfathi, James Rochlitz, Eric Shannon and James Stroud.

Swartz brings with him extensive experience that includes a 23-year stint with Pomona Pitzer, where he was named the West Coach of the Year in 1990.

He’s looking forward to sinking his teeth into another chance to teach the game.

“I think all coaches at this level, when we get a chance to coach or teach, jump at the chance, and it was good timing for me,” Swartz said. “I would like to be able to win some games but also balance the teaching and helping them understand the demands of each position. The players are responding well and working on their fitness with the ball. A lot has been centered on defending and being responsive.”   

Added, goalkeeper Shannon: “I like the direction we’re going in. (Bill) seems to organize everything really well. As a team it’s just a different style of play and I think it’s just a matter of time before we grasp it.”