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MEET OUR COACHES
Developing Players. Building Character. Creating Community. ONE TEAM ONE DREAM
COACHING DIRECTORS
At CITY FC, our coaches are more than just instructors; they're mentors. With years of experience in youth development and a passion for the game, each coach is committed to helping our players grow both on and off the field.
Coach Omar Lara
Omar's journey into coaching began with his father, a player turned coach, whose example inspired him to stay connected to the game and give back to his community. After attempting his own pursuit, he shifted his focus to mentoring the next generation. A lifelong supper of Atlas FC, Omar has had a deep love for the Negro y Rojo since his childhood. Not everyone knows, but his nickname "Chivo" has followed him since his early days growing up in Guadalajara, Mexico. One of his most cherished memories is watching a World Cup Match from the stands in Jalisco, a moment that cemented his passion for the Sport.
Advice: Persevere! No matter the challenge, your mental strength will carry you through.
Coach Axel Arvizu
Axel began coaching to help players reach levels he aspired to reach, which include college, pro, and beyond. After losing his wife, that mission became deeply personal; he continues this journey in her honor, with the dream of one day coaching professionally. His proudest moment was winning state with the 04/05 CITY FC team in front of her. A lifelong fan of Club America and Arsenal, Axel also has a passion for fashion and once dreamed of becoming a designer.
Advice: Enjoy every moment, and always be a student of the game.
Coach Vicente Navarro
For Vicente, coaching is a way to guide young people toward positive futures and away from harmful influences. His love for the game began with his father, watching matches together at the stadium. A fan of Pachuca FC, Vicente once made a professional youth team but did not follow through, an experience that fuels his message today.
Advice: Never stop fighting, believe in yourself, and trust that hard work and dedication make anything possible.
Coach Eric McIver
Eric's coaching journey began when is oldest son joined his first soccer team. With a background in youth and high school soccer, he stepped in to help and never stepped away. Ten years later, he's still on the sidelines, coaching both his sons and supporting the broader soccer community he's always proud to be part of. One of his favorite memories comes from sixth grade at Skyway Soccer Club, where his team played short-handed all season but never gave up, winning games and building resilience along the way. A loyal Seattle Sounders supporter, Eric finds inspiration in their grit and heart. Off the field, he's a decorated competitive bowler with titles, Team USA regional qualifications, and pro-level experience under his belt.
Advice: To players: embrace mistakes, they're proof you're pushing yourself. Growth lives in the uncomfortable moments.
Coach Brandon Cardoza
Brandon was inspired to coach by mentors like Jess, Omar, and Vicente, leaders who made a lasting impact both on and off the field. Their example drew him to CITY FC, where he now plays a key role in shaping the next generation. One of his most memorable experience was traveling to Guadalajara with the team, training alongside professionals and getting a firsthand look at their daily grind. A proud supporter of FC Barcelona, Brandon brings passion and global perspective to his coaching. Off the field, he's an avid traveler, visiting five countries in the past year alone.
Advice: To players: give 100% in everything you do, because if you don't, someone else will.
Coach Gracelynn Ruelas
Gracelynn was inspired by the impact her own coaches growing up and now strives to be that role model for the next generation. Her favorite memory is watching her team score their first goal after a tough tournament, pure joy and resilience. She proudly supports the Seattle Reign and the women who shaped her soccer journey. Off the field, she's an avid disc golfer, always chasing new courses.
Advice: Keep pushing, no matter the score; growth comes from grit.
Coach Uriel Ortiz
Uriel was drawn to coaching by Omar's vision and the chance to build a community of goalkeepers like the one that shaped him. As a player, traveling to Spain and Mexico were highlights; as a coach, watching his keepers win games through their impact is what drives him. A Bayern Munich loyalist, he admires Muller and Neuer and channels that style with surprising foot skills from his days as a midfielder.
Advice: Use this time to build discipline, teamwork, and character; it'll serve you far beyond the field.
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