Boyens has been working as head coach within the LA Galaxy Youth Academy, following an illustrious playing career for New Zealand and in the United States.
The 30-year-old was a member of the All Whites squad who remained unbeaten at the FIFA World Cup campaign in South Africa in 2010. The defender was first selected for the Junior All Whites in 2002 and made his debut for the All Whites in 2006, where he went on to make 19 appearances.
After playing locally in the National League, Boyens moved to the United States on a scholarship in 2004, initially playing for the University of New Mexico where he was named a first team All-American in 2006.
Boyens went on to play in the MLS for Toronto FC, the New York Red Bulls, Chivas USA, and LA Galaxy where he won the MLS in 2012 playing alongside David Beckham.
During his time as a professional footballer, Boyens worked as a coach in his respective clubs’ community programmes and academies. He holds his National B coaching license, the second highest coaching qualification in the United States.
Prior to a career in professional football, Boyens completed a Bachelor of Arts at Otago University and a Bachelor of Commerce at the University of New Mexico.
He’s now looking forward to making the move home.
“I’m excited to be coming home and being able to bring my experiences from the professional football environment here at LA Galaxy with me to Northern Football,” Boyens said.
“I’ve been thinking about coming home as I wanted to bring my family up in New Zealand and this opportunity came up at just the right time.
“There’s a really good development structure in place at Northern Football with the Federation Talent Centres and the Whole of Football Plan, and I’m looking forward to being able to build on that with what I’ve learnt here in the States.”
Northern Football CEO Cam Mitchell is pleased with the appointment and thinks his experience will complement the Football Development team.
“We are delighted to have someone with Andy’s credentials to build on the great work started by Danny Robinson and continue to provide high quality delivery of the Whole of Football in the Waitakere region.”
Boyens will be starting with Northern Football on March 17.
Story courtesy Northern Football Federation
For more on New Zealand football go to www.nzfootball.co.nz