The HappyFeet Story
HappyFeet originated in 1988 in Kansas City during coaching sessions for 3, 4 & 5 year-old kids at a local indoor soccer center. It began with stories like "Gus the Banana Gobbling Gorilla," and later on songs such as "Roll, roll, roll the ball" to the tune of "Row, row, row your boat." Today, HappyFeet is operated in over 100 locations both here in the U.S. and abroad.
HappyFeet Founder Andy Barney was born in Oxford, England and raised in a soccer-rich family with two generations of professional play. Andy came to the U.S. and established British Soccer Camps, now called Challenger Sports, the country's largest camp organization. He went on to spend his adult life developing his coaching philosophy that focuses on creating "Brave, Creative Leaders for Life!"
We are proud to know that through out leagues, classes and summer camps...HappyFeet has introduced the sport of soccer to children in a way we're confident will have a lasting, positive impact.
HappyFeet Pittsburgh
HappyFeet programs have been running in the greater Pittsburgh area for over 10 years. We follow an age appropriate curriculum to create a positive, lasting impact on children looking to begin organized physical fitness activities and sports. HappyFeet is a tremendous head start that builds confidence, self-esteem, balance, coordination and listening skills! Explore the website to learn more about our programs or contact us whether you're looking to sign up or if you're interested in adding us as an enrichment provider at a school or community location near you!
Meet The Owner
Coach Ande has been directing HappyFeet since it was brought to Pittsburgh more than 10 years ago by Pittsburgh Indoor Sports Arena. Ande attended Westminster College and graduated with a degree in Elementary Education. He played four years at WC, leading the President's Athletic Conference in scoring one season and serving as captain of the team for two years en route to one conference championship, multiple All-PAC selections and one NCAA appearance. He has over a decade of coaching experience ranging from varsity high school teams, middle school teams, running the Legends Youth Academy at PISA, futsal and club, most recently with Beadling East and FR High School boys varsity assistant and junior varsity head coach currently.
Far beyond any accolades or recognition, he has a deep appreciation for the long term development of youth soccer in the local community, while continuing to educate, be a positive influence, and give back to the sport that his given him so much. He resides in the Pittsburgh area with his family.
