Dashun Cooper On Coaching QPR Women
[Written by Stephen Wright]
Dashun Cooper says he is embracing the challenge of serving as the Queens Park Rangers Women’s goalkeeping coach.
The 32-year-old, who began the role at the start of the season, also coaches within QPR’s boys’ academy, working primarily with goalkeepers from ages nine to 16.
“I had the chance to work with the women’s team last season – just a few sessions,” Cooper told Bernews.
“I also covered one or two games – one at Loftus Road against Norwich City, which was pretty cool.
“My main responsibility with the women is to oversee the development of goalkeepers in the development squad and support the first team.”
Cooper is no stranger to the women’s game, having previously coached goalkeepers for Bermuda’s National Academy and senior women’s national team.
He said stepping into the senior club environment brings a sharper edge.
“Whether you win, lose, or draw, you must get over it right away and move on to the next game,” said Cooper, who holds a Uefa Goalkeeper B Licence and Uefa B Licence.
“It’s a fine line between development and performance. You still want a senior player to develop, but at the same time, you need to get the result.
“It’s something I’ve always wanted to do – to have the whole week to prepare for a game. I love it.”
QPR Women, managed by Danny Harrigan, have made a strong start in Division One South East – the fourth tier of the English pyramid – and sit third after three matches.
“It’s a result-oriented business when you’re working at the senior level,” said Cooper, who previously coached at Premier League side Crystal Palace’s Development Centre at Coombe Wood School in Croydon.
“We’re looking to win promotion this season. The women’s programme’s five-to-ten-year plan is very ambitious. To be part of that is crazy.”
Cooper is not the only Bermudian flying the flag at Loftus Road.
Sixteen-year-old winger Kalen Brunson made his QPR debut last month, coming on as an 86th-minute substitute in a 3-2 Carabao Cup defeat away to Plymouth Argyle. He signed terms with the Sky Bet Championship side in December.
“For two people to end up working at the same club is tremendous,” Cooper said.
“It’s been great to witness his progression. It’s thanks to people like Clyde Best, Shaun Goater, Nahki Wells, and Reggie Lambe, who have shown what’s possible and given young Bermudian players and coaches a chance to dream.”
