The City Staff

Chicago City Soccer Club is proud to have a diverse, well-rounded team of highly experienced and qualified staff throughout the organization. Our strong family culture has been at the heart of the club's growth, with many team members staying with us for many years. Most recently, Coach Marie, Nick, Omer, Craig, and Tom were honored with appreciation awards for over a decade of service to the club.

Through weekly professional development sessions and in-person meetings at HQ, our staff remains deeply committed to advancing the sport at all levels, always putting the athlete first. As a club, we’re fortunate to provide full-time careers, health insurance options, and robust support for continued education. Nine of our staff members have earned their Master's degrees, while many others hold Bachelor’s degrees.

In addition to these accomplishments, our team is actively pursuing USSF and UEFA coaching licenses, constantly striving for excellence. With an ambitious, collaborative spirit, our staff works together daily to ensure the success of every player in the CITY organization. 

Directors

Nick Mulvaney

Founder & CEO

My love for sports began back home in Dublin, Ireland, where I grew up surrounded by family deeply involved in both soccer and Gaelic football. 

As I formed a close bond with my granddad, I learned about his time playing professionally for Aston Villa and Shamrock Rovers, eventually representing our country. 

Naturally, I became a Villa fan and was raised within one of Ireland's top clubs, St. Kevin;s Football Club, where my uncle was heavily involved. From the age of six, I found myself immersed in a unique club environment built on family and community, which played a crucial role in shaping my character both on and off the field.

At 18, my soccer journey took me to the United States, where I pursued an education while playing collegiate soccer at William Carey University in Mississippi (NAIA). 

Over the years, I've been fortunate to be around the professional game in cities like New Orleans, Chicago, Dublin, and London. This exposure allowed me to develop a personal framework centered on culture, family, and community—principles that have been essential to my growth both personally and professionally.

In 2024, I was proud to be one of just 12 candidates in the U.S. to earn a Master’s in Sporting Directorship from GIS/UCFB. 

On a personal note, I married a local Chicago girl in October 2023 in Ireland. In my free time, I enjoy playing golf, running or biking by the lake, snowboarding in the winter, and traveling to new places.

Go City!

PEER REVIEW

- leads with empathy and compassion while creating a family culture within the club.

- knowledgeable, caring, easy to talk to, innovative, authoritative, hard worker, invested, reasonable, team player, driving force of CITY, great personality.

- leader of the team, makes it a priority to be connected with staff and instill a vision, culture, and community.

- visionary with the ability to create a great club and culture to lead Chicago.

- a trailblazer within the industry, raising the standards, and continuing to develop new opportunities for Chicago.

Simone Lodge

Head of Club Operations

I am originally from Huddersfield, England and I have been in the USA involved in the soccer industry in Chicago since 2010.

In 2021 I had my first baby and so I have transitioned into an administrative role throughout the organization.

My favorite team is Manchester City and my favorite players are Kevin De Bruyne and Lauren Hemp.

PEER REVIEW

- quality personality, so helpful and sweet, has a great understanding of the inner workings of the club and leagues.

- hard worker, kind, caring, willing to help others, prime example of a team player and one that really gives everything for the club, goes above and beyond for others.

- is undoubtedly the glue that holds everyone together. She is constantly asked questions and never says no. Her kind soul and hard work make our jobs easier out on the field and on match days.

- approachable, great attitude and personality that makes everyone comfortable.

- always available to help and is a problem solver!

Craig McDonald

General Manager

In 1998, I began my coaching journey which began with cricket in my hometown club of Arbroath, Scotland. I had the opportunity to work alongside a fantastic coach who opened my eyes on how rewarding coaching could be as it would help provide positive pathways for players at an early age. I had experienced firsthand how players can develop and grow within the right environment.

Due to this positive experience I wanted to learn more and so I enrolled in a Sports Coaching and Development course at a local college.

As my main passion was in soccer, I found opportunities within local schools and clubs, and after 2 successful years of growing these programs, I was proud to see the positive impact it was having on the kids and how quick they were developing. I was sold and decided to pursue soccer coaching stateside.

My journey began in Dallas, Texas, and took me to Maine, Vermont, and finally Chicago where I began working in Schaumburg and Hoffman Estates.

I had the opportunity to work within the Chicago Fire's Regional Talent School throughout Illinois and after three years of invaluable experience I felt it was time for a change.

I had met and worked with our Founder Nick in summer camps over the years and it was clear to see we were very like minded in the ideas of how youth soccer should be implemented. Through my experiences with Nick and speaking with him about his plans for the club here in the City, I decided to make the move and have never looked back.

CITY is an organization that provides a positive structure for players and coaches of all levels and I was really keen to work with like minded people to help elevate my career on and off the field.

I joined the year the club rebranded and it has been truly amazing to see the growth throughout Chicagoland. We have been able to create opportunities for both players and coaches, and through our pathway, we have experienced so many success stories.

I have been with CITY for over 10 years in various roles and I love that we are always looking to improve the landscape of soccer in Illinois,

This is down to the beliefs and like minded coaches within our organization, I could not find a better club to be with that cares so much about the players and the coaches.

Lets go City!! 

PEER REVIEW

- Helpful and funny person. Connected with him because he is quite light hearted but has a high standard of operation and is very helpful.

- very dedicated and doing a fantastic job with the younger girls bringing them higher level coaching

- A phenomenal coach who displays a high level of focus in training and games to give specific feedback for each player to help their development.

- Hard worker, kind, caring, willing to help others, prime example of a team player and one that really gives everything for the club,

Ryan Rogak

Coach Development Officer

I am from Chicago, IL and I joined CITY in 2015 as I believed it was an organization leading the way in developing soccer throughout Chicagoland.

I started coaching with UK International as a summer camp coach while coaching AYSO Extra programs around Chicago. Before joining CITY I was the Director of the Manchester City FC Community Program at Haas Park in Logan Square.

My ambitions are to win a national hot dog eating competition and continue to develop my coaching skills in youth soccer. I attained my USSF B License in 2022. My favorite team is Manchester United and my favorite food is Chicago's own deep dish pizza!

PEER REVIEW

- has a helpful mentality about him as he wants to assist those around him to try & help in their growth & development. Has good intentions to help everyone.

- working hard to help support coaches development, understands how to get through to coaches with different personalities. He cares about his teams, works on self development constantly, very invested.

- wants to support everyone & make us all better.

- hard working, incredibly dedicated to improving coaching standards across our club. One of the good guys!!

- hardworking in all aspects, helps raise the standard

Pedja Maksimovic

High School Director

I was born in Novi Sad, Serbia (at that time the country was called Yugoslavia). Growing up, I adored football (soccer) and when I was 7 years old I joined FC Novi Sad (2nd division club), which was always one of the top youth programs in the country. During my time there, through the high level of expectation I realized quickly I would have to work hard, no shortcuts, which taught me the value of doing things the right way.

I passed all of the levels in the youth program at FC Novi Sad and every year I was a part of the regional team and when I was 17 years old I joined the 1st team and signed my first professional contract. I was part of the 1st team for the next 6 years and then made one appearance for the National U-21 team of Yugoslavia. It was a dream come true and I was on the right path in my career.

I developed minor back problems, and over the years the pain worsened. Doctors eventually gave me a tough choice: stop playing or risk ending up in a wheelchair. Determined to improve, I worked with a physical therapist, followed a strict workout regime, and managed to play for two more years.

In 2003 my wife and I received the opportunity to come to Chicago so she could start her PhD studies. This led to me starting to coach my daughter's preschool team, just for kids to learn the game and have fun.

I began my club coaching career with Chicago Premier SC who were based in the city but in 2016 the club announced that had to fold. I was approached by multiple clubs and when I was introduced to our Founder Nick, I knew CITY would be the place for me. I found like-minded people who cared about player development and I knew that the club had huge potential. I found my new soccer home where everyone is like a family.

Throughout my playing/coaching journey, three things never changed: hard work, having fun, and doing things the right way are always part of my passion for soccer. 

PEER REVIEW

- the father of the group, always looking out for the team which is greatly appreciated by all.

- the warm and kind and is always on hand to offer support.

- mature and reliable, always willing to help with a great sense of humor.

- mood elevator when he walks into the room, a calm presence that helps see the bigger picture.

- great coach and role model for players he works with, putting every bit of energy into working with each player.

- very reliable, hard working, & loyal always putting people first.

Ben Galvez

Director of Coaching - Chicago Soccer Foundation

The path(s) that life takes you down are nothing short of unpredictable and, when in retrospect, fascinating.  My path, the miles already traveled and the City miles still ahead of me, are no exception to the rule!  

Before I was afforded an opinion, my father had laid out the foundation for what would become the greatest love of my life, soccer.  Countless hours were spent between father, son, a soccer ball, and dreams of a life revolving around the beautiful game.  It was his good fortune that his passion for the game was mirrored, and ultimately surpassed, by my own.  

Once my Belizean parents realized my obsession with the sport, they fostered my interest and got me involved in Lakefront AYSO, which quickly led to my first experiences in travel soccer.  Chicago Attack, Chicago Lakefront-Attack, Ecuadorian Leagues, Mexican Leagues, Caribbean Leagues, and the Polish National Alliance (PNA) Patriots all comprise various teams and leagues I played for in the Chicagoland area during my youth.  If my love for the sport itself wasn’t enough, my appreciation for the cultures that the universal language of soccer afforded me exposure to was enough to convince me that this sport was to be in my future at any cost.  

After graduating from Lane Tech High School, my father pushed me to follow another pair of passions I had, English/the study of literature, and teaching.  Thankfully, I was exposed to yet another culture through my studies and play, as I chose the University of Nebraska - Lincoln for my higher education.  With this in mind, and entering my final two years of undergrad, I was at a crossroads as the demands of my program and student teaching disallowed me from continuing to follow my first and greatest love.  

It was a heartbreaking decision, but with the input of my parents I decided to stop playing and focus on my studies.  As it tends to happen, my parents were absolutely correct in their assessment as the combination of my teaching background and love for soccer ultimately led me into coaching.  I’ve coached around various organizations and schools in the Chicagoland area, serving from roles as low as part-time coach to as high as Technical Director.  

My greatest motivator is to give back to the communities in which I was raised, and that shared goal is what drew me to CITY.  CITY's dedication to their membership, staff excellence, and the communities they serve, are entities I could not ignore nor pass up when deciding where to dedicate my time, energy, and potential.  Though I’m nowhere close to reaching the end of my path, I look forward to embarking down the countless City miles that are ahead of me still!  

Darren Davis

Director of Locations & CITY Western Suburbs

Originally from Kildare in Ireland, I moved to Chicago in the summer of 2021 and have been working for Chicago City Soccer Club since.

I joined Chicago City SC because they shared my philosophy on player development, taking a holistic approach to coaching and player wellbeing as well as their ambitions to be a true club for the community.

My coaching journey has taken me from Ireland to Australia and from London to Chicago. I have coached across a broad range of ages and levels of play but my real passion is developing relationships with players and families and seeing them get the most from the beautiful game. 

I am a Tottenham Hotspur supporter. My favorite players growing up were Maradona and Gazza. My other hobby is music, I have been playing guitar for almost 30 years!

My wife is Diana and I have two beautiful daughters, Elodie and Juliette. 

PEER REVIEW

- works so hard to grow and oversee the West, has good ideas and very organized in his work.

- an insightful coach creates a great learning environment.

- hard worker, positive, invested, team player, knowledgeable.

- always wants to help everyone and does not say no. He is hard working and has a strong desire to support his players on the field.

- has a great knowledge of the game and has shared this with me on a few occasions.

- A fountain of worldwide experience that the West is lucky to be working under.

Conor Walsh

Academy Director

I am from a small town called Ennis in the West of Ireland. Throughout my life I have been heavily involved in a multitude of sports.

Gaelic Football, Hurling & Soccer have all played a prominent role in my upbringing. However it was the sport of soccer which captivated the imagination.I have witnessed first hand the influence which a coach can have on a young persons life and that inspired me to begin my coaching journey at 15 years of age.

Over the last 14 years I have coached in full time and part time roles across all age groups in the male and female game. I am very fortunate to have combined my love of travel with my passion for football having coached in England, the United Arab Emirates & Canada prior to moving to Chicago. There is nothing which fulfills me more than watching former players move up the ladder in their sporting or professional careers. I am even more lucky to have worked with esteemed educators over the years to this day who's guidance I still regularly seek.

It is this passion to improve and learn which drives me on a daily basis. Chicago City as an organization represents many of these values and upon speaking to Nick several years ago I have been drawn by the club's journey. Now I am honored and delighted to play my role in the continued progress of Chicago City.

My hobbies include the outdoors, podcasting and Chelsea Football Club where I held a season ticket for 2 seasons.

Marie Zenere

CFO & HR

Department Leads

Orin Gilchrist

Program Director - Chicago Soccer Foundation

For me, soccer has been a passion of mine for my entire life. Originally I was born in Aylesbury England, and was brought up as a massive Manchester United supporter. My family moved over to the Chicagoland area when I was 8 and have been here ever since.

Growing up in the north suburbs of Chicago I attended New Trier High School and subsequently the University of Illinois Urbana Champaign with a degree in Sport Management.

Since being with City I have had the opportunity to have a couple of roles in our Mini City Program, as well as Varsity Head Coach of the Amundsen Men's Soccer Team, USL Operations Youth & Adult, and now heading up our Chicago Soccer Foundation.

Soccer has always been my passion, and I am happy to find a club in Chicago City that allows me to share the game with the community at all skill levels.

GO CITY!!!

PEER REVIEW

- easy to talk to, willing to learn, hard worker, responsible.

- always very polite and willing to help out with anything needed.

- has shown a great enthusiasm to learn and improve.

- a true team player who collaborates well with everyone.

- showed great leadership in his Mini City role last year.

- has shown great organizational and communication skills this year within his new role.

- a very important piece to the future of CITY.

Paul Cleary

Operations - Chicago Soccer Foundation

I was born and raised in Dublin, Ireland, and I moved to Chicago at the beginning of 2024. It has been a fantastic experience so far!

As a huge sports fan, I've been involved in sports for most of my life, and I’m incredibly fortunate to have fulfilled my dream of becoming a full-time professional soccer player. I played professionally back home in our National League for St. Patrick’s Athletic and Wexford F.C. Two of my career highlights were playing against Premier League side Chelsea F.C. and captaining Wexford in numerous matches. This past summer, I had the honor of captaining our USL 2 team, which was an amazing experience, playing the game in a different culture and alongside new players.

With over 20 years of playing experience, I’m excited to pass on my knowledge to the players at CITY! Throughout my career, I’ve been guided by incredible coaches and role models who not only taught me valuable lessons in soccer but also in life. I look forward to being that same mentor for the players at Chicago City Soccer Club.

I’m also passionate about giving all kids the opportunity to play soccer. At CITY, there’s a strong emphasis on making soccer accessible for everyone through the Chicago Soccer Foundation. I’m thrilled to be part of that initiative and hope kids around the Chicago area find the same joy in the game that I experienced.

I am excited to meet all of our CITY families, and I hope to see you at a game or practice soon!

Gabe Sanford

CITY Loop

I grew up in Urbandale, IA, where my love for soccer began. I was fortunate to win two state championships with my club team, JUSC, during high school. My soccer journey then took me to Canton, Missouri, where I played collegiate soccer at Culver-Stockton College. After graduating in 2016, I moved to Chicago to start a corporate sales career, which unfortunately led soccer to take a backseat for a while.

However, I quickly realized how much I missed the game. In 2017, I started volunteering as a coach with another City club and the Chicago Soccer Foundation, reigniting my passion for soccer through coaching. In 2020, I was lucky enough to join Chicago City as a part-time coach, helping Coach Ben launch our Loop location. By 2023, I proudly became a full-time coach to continue contributing to this amazing club.

Chicago City and I share the same values and goals, and the club has provided a platform to instill those values and a love for the game in kids of all ages and skill levels across Chicagoland.

I’ve now been living in Chicago for over 8 years with my wonderful wife, Justine and our dog, Eros. I’m a huge Chelsea FC fan and an avid fisherman, always looking to check off another fish from my "never caught" list.

Gareth Corrigan

CITY Southern Suburbs

I was born in Dublin, Ireland, and have spent most of my life in Athboy, County Meath. Throughout my youth, I played for several top teams in the area. At 18, I began my journey to the U.S., where I played collegiate soccer in Upstate New York and Iowa.

Most recently, I completed my Master’s Degree in Sports Leadership while serving as the assistant coach for the University of Jamestown Women's soccer team, where we achieved an impressive two-year undefeated record in conference play.

My deep passion for soccer drives my commitment to fostering sports excellence. I believe in creating an environment that nurtures talent, instills values, and offers opportunities for growth both on and off the field. I advocate for a holistic approach to player development, focusing on technical skills, tactical understanding, and character building.

I’m dedicated to building strong partnerships within the Chicago community, as I believe that together we can inspire and empower young athletes to reach their full potential, positively impacting their lives and those around them.

As a devoted Chelsea Football Club supporter, I’ve always admired players like Didier Drogba. I started coaching at 15 with my local club, Athboy Celtic, and my passion for coaching has taken me around the world. I’m also a proud supporter of the Irish national soccer team and cherish the moments I get to attend their games.

One of my fondest memories is watching Ireland defeat Italy 1-0 at the 2016 European Championships—an experience I’ll always treasure, especially given the legendary spirit of Irish supporters.

As I embark on this exciting journey with Chicago City SC, I’m committed to fostering an environment of open communication, collaboration, and respect. I look forward to meeting everyone and getting to know the community!

Amber Zola

ECNL/E64 Operations/Store Manager

I am originally from Sugar Land, Texas, where I played college soccer at the University of Houston-Victoria before earning a degree in Criminal Justice from the University of Houston-Downtown.

Discovering a passion for the sport, I joined Chicago City Soccer Club in 2023, where I found the passion to be a coach.  I enjoy coaching young girls, inspiring them to excel, foster a love for the game, and create a safe, encouraging environment.

Outside of soccer, I enjoy the company of my two dogs, Milo and Koda.  

Barry Cummings

Development

I was born and raised in Greenock, Scotland, and in 1997, I moved to the U.S. to work at summer camps with BUNAC and eventually with Welsh Soccer Camps in the Midwest. This opportunity became a stepping stone that led me to play collegiate soccer at Baker University in Kansas, where I earned both a B.S. and a MAT in Education. This was a very proud moment in my life, as I was the first person in my family to attend and graduate from college.

A fun fact: I was the oldest soccer player in college in 2004, graduating as a 31-year-old senior, making the experience both memorable and rewarding. I feel incredibly fortunate to have had the chance to play during that time.

Most of my soccer experience comes from Kansas, where I have accumulated 25 years of coaching at all levels, including Youth, ODP, High School, and College soccer. Over a 10-year span, I earned numerous coaching certifications, including the USYSA Youth Y, NSCAA Premier Diploma, and the USSF A License. It was during the USSF A License course that I met Nick Mulvaney, the Founder and Director of Chicago City SC. We’ve been close friends ever since, sharing many similar values and beliefs about coaching. I’m excited to be part of the team and contribute to the club’s success.

In my free time, I enjoy playing golf, traveling, studying history, and embracing all things Scottish. I support Celtic, a club I was fortunate enough to play for as a youth in Scotland. Soccer runs in my family—my father, John, and brother, Paul, both played professionally, so it's safe to say that soccer is in our blood. I’m thrilled to be here, working alongside Nick and his talented team of coaches.

GO CITY!

Gabrielle Whittinghill

Head of Fundraising & Club Events

Jimmy Wilcox

Technical Analyst

My passion for soccer grew as a young kid in CT. I was influenced by my dad's love for the game which was passed down to me. To this day my dad and I still share this connection through the game. He still tells me on the phone about what his over 70s team is doing wrong.

I played youth soccer in CT in a local academy and from an early age my dad would bring me to play men's leagues where I was able to understand the game on a deeper level.

At the age of 18 yrs old I tore my ACL which taught me many lessons that I took on to play collegiate soccer at Springfield College, Lycoming College, and Western Connecticut University.

After College I spent pre season with multiple USL clubs before playing in a showcase in Denmark where I was signed by a club in the Faroe Islands and played full time. I would be able to gain playing experience in Faroe Islands, Poland, and Spain before playing one more professional season in Canada.

Simultaneously I continued my education of the game via video analysis starting at the time of my ACL injury. This pursuit led me to create my own brand (Modern Football Analyst), write two books, work with the likes of Nuri Sahin, Orlando Pirates, and Arsenal F.C. who I currently work for today.

I am looking forward to continuing my work with CITY as we look to truly elevate our players and staff.

Malik Scott

Performance & Athlete Development

Coaches

Nick Mulvaney

USSF A & MSc Sporting Directorship (11yrs)

My love for sports began back home in Dublin, Ireland, where I grew up surrounded by family deeply involved in both soccer and Gaelic football. 

As I formed a close bond with my granddad, I learned about his time playing professionally for Aston Villa and Shamrock Rovers, eventually representing our country. 

Naturally, I became a Villa fan and was raised within one of Ireland's top clubs, St. Kevin;s Football Club, where my uncle was heavily involved. From the age of six, I found myself immersed in a unique club environment built on family and community, which played a crucial role in shaping my character both on and off the field.

At 18, my soccer journey took me to the United States, where I pursued an education while playing collegiate soccer at William Carey University in Mississippi (NAIA). 

Over the years, I've been fortunate to be around the professional game in cities like New Orleans, Chicago, Dublin, and London. This exposure allowed me to develop a personal framework centered on culture, family, and community—principles that have been essential to my growth both personally and professionally.

In 2024, I was proud to be one of just 12 candidates in the U.S. to earn a Master’s in Sporting Directorship from GIS/UCFB. 

On a personal note, I married a local Chicago girl in October 2023 in Ireland. In my free time, I enjoy playing golf, running or biking by the lake, snowboarding in the winter, and traveling to new places.

Go City!

PEER REVIEW

- leads with empathy and compassion while creating a family culture within the club.

- knowledgeable, caring, easy to talk to, innovative, authoritative, hard worker, invested, reasonable, team player, driving force of CITY, great personality.

- leader of the team, makes it a priority to be connected with staff and instill a vision, culture, and community.

- visionary with the ability to create a great club and culture to lead Chicago.

- a trailblazer within the industry, raising the standards, and continuing to develop new opportunities for Chicago.

Omer Hadzic

USSF B (11yrs)

Craig McDonald

USSF B (10yrs)

In 1998, I began my coaching journey which began with cricket in my hometown club of Arbroath, Scotland. I had the opportunity to work alongside a fantastic coach who opened my eyes on how rewarding coaching could be as it would help provide positive pathways for players at an early age. I had experienced firsthand how players can develop and grow within the right environment.

Due to this positive experience I wanted to learn more and so I enrolled in a Sports Coaching and Development course at a local college.

As my main passion was in soccer, I found opportunities within local schools and clubs, and after 2 successful years of growing these programs, I was proud to see the positive impact it was having on the kids and how quick they were developing. I was sold and decided to pursue soccer coaching stateside.

My journey began in Dallas, Texas, and took me to Maine, Vermont, and finally Chicago where I began working in Schaumburg and Hoffman Estates.

I had the opportunity to work within the Chicago Fire's Regional Talent School throughout Illinois and after three years of invaluable experience I felt it was time for a change.

I had met and worked with our Founder Nick in summer camps over the years and it was clear to see we were very like minded in the ideas of how youth soccer should be implemented. Through my experiences with Nick and speaking with him about his plans for the club here in the City, I decided to make the move and have never looked back.

CITY is an organization that provides a positive structure for players and coaches of all levels and I was really keen to work with like minded people to help elevate my career on and off the field.

I joined the year the club rebranded and it has been truly amazing to see the growth throughout Chicagoland. We have been able to create opportunities for both players and coaches, and through our pathway, we have experienced so many success stories.

I have been with CITY for over 10 years in various roles and I love that we are always looking to improve the landscape of soccer in Illinois,

This is down to the beliefs and like minded coaches within our organization, I could not find a better club to be with that cares so much about the players and the coaches.

Lets go City!! 

PEER REVIEW

- Helpful and funny person. Connected with him because he is quite light hearted but has a high standard of operation and is very helpful.

- very dedicated and doing a fantastic job with the younger girls bringing them higher level coaching

- A phenomenal coach who displays a high level of focus in training and games to give specific feedback for each player to help their development.

- Hard worker, kind, caring, willing to help others, prime example of a team player and one that really gives everything for the club,

Ryan Rogak

USSF B (8yrs)

I am from Chicago, IL and I joined CITY in 2015 as I believed it was an organization leading the way in developing soccer throughout Chicagoland.

I started coaching with UK International as a summer camp coach while coaching AYSO Extra programs around Chicago. Before joining CITY I was the Director of the Manchester City FC Community Program at Haas Park in Logan Square.

My ambitions are to win a national hot dog eating competition and continue to develop my coaching skills in youth soccer. I attained my USSF B License in 2022. My favorite team is Manchester United and my favorite food is Chicago's own deep dish pizza!

PEER REVIEW

- has a helpful mentality about him as he wants to assist those around him to try & help in their growth & development. Has good intentions to help everyone.

- working hard to help support coaches development, understands how to get through to coaches with different personalities. He cares about his teams, works on self development constantly, very invested.

- wants to support everyone & make us all better.

- hard working, incredibly dedicated to improving coaching standards across our club. One of the good guys!!

- hardworking in all aspects, helps raise the standard

Pedja Maksimovic

USSF C (8yrs)

I was born in Novi Sad, Serbia (at that time the country was called Yugoslavia). Growing up, I adored football (soccer) and when I was 7 years old I joined FC Novi Sad (2nd division club), which was always one of the top youth programs in the country. During my time there, through the high level of expectation I realized quickly I would have to work hard, no shortcuts, which taught me the value of doing things the right way.

I passed all of the levels in the youth program at FC Novi Sad and every year I was a part of the regional team and when I was 17 years old I joined the 1st team and signed my first professional contract. I was part of the 1st team for the next 6 years and then made one appearance for the National U-21 team of Yugoslavia. It was a dream come true and I was on the right path in my career.

I developed minor back problems, and over the years the pain worsened. Doctors eventually gave me a tough choice: stop playing or risk ending up in a wheelchair. Determined to improve, I worked with a physical therapist, followed a strict workout regime, and managed to play for two more years.

In 2003 my wife and I received the opportunity to come to Chicago so she could start her PhD studies. This led to me starting to coach my daughter's preschool team, just for kids to learn the game and have fun.

I began my club coaching career with Chicago Premier SC who were based in the city but in 2016 the club announced that had to fold. I was approached by multiple clubs and when I was introduced to our Founder Nick, I knew CITY would be the place for me. I found like-minded people who cared about player development and I knew that the club had huge potential. I found my new soccer home where everyone is like a family.

Throughout my playing/coaching journey, three things never changed: hard work, having fun, and doing things the right way are always part of my passion for soccer. 

PEER REVIEW

- the father of the group, always looking out for the team which is greatly appreciated by all.

- the warm and kind and is always on hand to offer support.

- mature and reliable, always willing to help with a great sense of humor.

- mood elevator when he walks into the room, a calm presence that helps see the bigger picture.

- great coach and role model for players he works with, putting every bit of energy into working with each player.

- very reliable, hard working, & loyal always putting people first.

Simone Lodge

USSF C (7yrs)

I am originally from Huddersfield, England and I have been in the USA involved in the soccer industry in Chicago since 2010.

In 2021 I had my first baby and so I have transitioned into an administrative role throughout the organization.

My favorite team is Manchester City and my favorite players are Kevin De Bruyne and Lauren Hemp.

PEER REVIEW

- quality personality, so helpful and sweet, has a great understanding of the inner workings of the club and leagues.

- hard worker, kind, caring, willing to help others, prime example of a team player and one that really gives everything for the club, goes above and beyond for others.

- is undoubtedly the glue that holds everyone together. She is constantly asked questions and never says no. Her kind soul and hard work make our jobs easier out on the field and on match days.

- approachable, great attitude and personality that makes everyone comfortable.

- always available to help and is a problem solver!

Ben Galvez

USSF D & MSc Education (4yrs)

The path(s) that life takes you down are nothing short of unpredictable and, when in retrospect, fascinating.  My path, the miles already traveled and the City miles still ahead of me, are no exception to the rule!  

Before I was afforded an opinion, my father had laid out the foundation for what would become the greatest love of my life, soccer.  Countless hours were spent between father, son, a soccer ball, and dreams of a life revolving around the beautiful game.  It was his good fortune that his passion for the game was mirrored, and ultimately surpassed, by my own.  

Once my Belizean parents realized my obsession with the sport, they fostered my interest and got me involved in Lakefront AYSO, which quickly led to my first experiences in travel soccer.  Chicago Attack, Chicago Lakefront-Attack, Ecuadorian Leagues, Mexican Leagues, Caribbean Leagues, and the Polish National Alliance (PNA) Patriots all comprise various teams and leagues I played for in the Chicagoland area during my youth.  If my love for the sport itself wasn’t enough, my appreciation for the cultures that the universal language of soccer afforded me exposure to was enough to convince me that this sport was to be in my future at any cost.  

After graduating from Lane Tech High School, my father pushed me to follow another pair of passions I had, English/the study of literature, and teaching.  Thankfully, I was exposed to yet another culture through my studies and play, as I chose the University of Nebraska - Lincoln for my higher education.  With this in mind, and entering my final two years of undergrad, I was at a crossroads as the demands of my program and student teaching disallowed me from continuing to follow my first and greatest love.  

It was a heartbreaking decision, but with the input of my parents I decided to stop playing and focus on my studies.  As it tends to happen, my parents were absolutely correct in their assessment as the combination of my teaching background and love for soccer ultimately led me into coaching.  I’ve coached around various organizations and schools in the Chicagoland area, serving from roles as low as part-time coach to as high as Technical Director.  

My greatest motivator is to give back to the communities in which I was raised, and that shared goal is what drew me to CITY.  CITY's dedication to their membership, staff excellence, and the communities they serve, are entities I could not ignore nor pass up when deciding where to dedicate my time, energy, and potential.  Though I’m nowhere close to reaching the end of my path, I look forward to embarking down the countless City miles that are ahead of me still!  

Edgar Camberos

USSF C & MsC & Project Manager Professional (4yrs)

I'm originally from Bolivia, I grew up in La Paz where I played soccer since I was 5. I played soccer in the Academy team in high School, and I was part of U18 of a ProTeam called Mariscal Braun.  

I was a solid player but not quite exceptional enough to pursue a professional career, which is why I chose to focus on my education. I earned a scholarship to Universidad Privada Boliviana, where I studied electromechanical engineering.

During my time there, I played for the college until I completed my degree. In 2010, I moved to Switzerland to study and live with my wife, my first worry when I arrived there was to play soccer right away fortunately, I found a club and I started to play in different levels from 5th division to 3rd division for 8 years.

My first experience as a coach was in 2017 when I was playing for Lausanne Nord Academy and the club told me if I was interested in coaching a U10 team. The season was not really good, but I liked the experience and I continued to coach in the club until 2020. In this time, I started my formation and obtained my UEFA C license.

I began my journey with Chicago City Soccer Club in September 2020 after relocating to Chicago for my wife’s job. I reached out to Nick to continue my coaching career.

From my initial contact with the club and my first training session, I felt an immediate sense of belonging, as we shared the same vision for the game, making it easy to connect with my fellow coaches. I am grateful for the trust the club has placed in me, and I am committed to helping the next generation of soccer players reach their full potential both on and off the field. In all this years with City I continued my education, working right now to get my USSF B License.

My interest out of soccer are Video games and food. I’m a gamer and a big collector of SNES and N64 games, also I like the food, I’m always trying new recipes and trying all the different food that our beautiful city offers. 

Orin Gilchrist

USSF D (3yrs)

For me, soccer has been a passion of mine for my entire life. Originally I was born in Aylesbury England, and was brought up as a massive Manchester United supporter. My family moved over to the Chicagoland area when I was 8 and have been here ever since.

Growing up in the north suburbs of Chicago I attended New Trier High School and subsequently the University of Illinois Urbana Champaign with a degree in Sport Management.

Since being with City I have had the opportunity to have a couple of roles in our Mini City Program, as well as Varsity Head Coach of the Amundsen Men's Soccer Team, USL Operations Youth & Adult, and now heading up our Chicago Soccer Foundation.

Soccer has always been my passion, and I am happy to find a club in Chicago City that allows me to share the game with the community at all skill levels.

GO CITY!!!

PEER REVIEW

- easy to talk to, willing to learn, hard worker, responsible.

- always very polite and willing to help out with anything needed.

- has shown a great enthusiasm to learn and improve.

- a true team player who collaborates well with everyone.

- showed great leadership in his Mini City role last year.

- has shown great organizational and communication skills this year within his new role.

- a very important piece to the future of CITY.

Darren Davis

UEFA B & MSc Sports Coaching (3yrs)

Originally from Kildare in Ireland, I moved to Chicago in the summer of 2021 and have been working for Chicago City Soccer Club since.

I joined Chicago City SC because they shared my philosophy on player development, taking a holistic approach to coaching and player wellbeing as well as their ambitions to be a true club for the community.

My coaching journey has taken me from Ireland to Australia and from London to Chicago. I have coached across a broad range of ages and levels of play but my real passion is developing relationships with players and families and seeing them get the most from the beautiful game. 

I am a Tottenham Hotspur supporter. My favorite players growing up were Maradona and Gazza. My other hobby is music, I have been playing guitar for almost 30 years!

My wife is Diana and I have two beautiful daughters, Elodie and Juliette. 

PEER REVIEW

- works so hard to grow and oversee the West, has good ideas and very organized in his work.

- an insightful coach creates a great learning environment.

- hard worker, positive, invested, team player, knowledgeable.

- always wants to help everyone and does not say no. He is hard working and has a strong desire to support his players on the field.

- has a great knowledge of the game and has shared this with me on a few occasions.

- A fountain of worldwide experience that the West is lucky to be working under.

Gabe Sanford

USSF D (3yrs)

I grew up in Urbandale, IA, where my love for soccer began. I was fortunate to win two state championships with my club team, JUSC, during high school. My soccer journey then took me to Canton, Missouri, where I played collegiate soccer at Culver-Stockton College. After graduating in 2016, I moved to Chicago to start a corporate sales career, which unfortunately led soccer to take a backseat for a while.

However, I quickly realized how much I missed the game. In 2017, I started volunteering as a coach with another City club and the Chicago Soccer Foundation, reigniting my passion for soccer through coaching. In 2020, I was lucky enough to join Chicago City as a part-time coach, helping Coach Ben launch our Loop location. By 2023, I proudly became a full-time coach to continue contributing to this amazing club.

Chicago City and I share the same values and goals, and the club has provided a platform to instill those values and a love for the game in kids of all ages and skill levels across Chicagoland.

I’ve now been living in Chicago for over 8 years with my wonderful wife, Justine and our dog, Eros. I’m a huge Chelsea FC fan and an avid fisherman, always looking to check off another fish from my "never caught" list.

Arturo Hernandez

USSF D (3yrs)

Born and raised in Chicago’s Albany Park, I started playing soccer at age 8 with my dad in an alley, aiming at light posts. Growing up in the city, there were countless distractions, but I was fortunate to stick with soccer from a young age.

I attended Von Steuben High School, where I met incredible teachers and coaches who influenced me. Early in high school, I became determined to play professionally, training on my own at 5 a.m. and 10 a.m., and scrimmaging at River Park. A mentor’s advice to “give 100%” led me to try out in states like Boston, North Carolina, Texas, and Mexico, where I lived for six months playing in high-level leagues. I also had trials in Croatia and Slovenia, and multiple tryouts in Chicago.

Although I never made it pro, I began private training sessions at 17 to help kids in my community. I played NJCAA soccer at Triton College, earning 2nd team All-Region twice as a starter.

In 2017, I began coaching at Von Steuben High School, starting with girls JV and later becoming the Varsity coach. I’ve since helped many players get into college soccer or coaching.

In 2020, I launched my private training business, Hardestworkerszone, LLC, to offer high-level training at affordable rates. In 2021, I joined Chicago City after a conversation with Nick about supporting our local communities through soccer and one of the main reasons I joined CITY was because Nick felt as strong as I do about ensuring financials aren’t a barrier for anyone who wants to play.

Alex Rosales

USSF D & MSc (3yrs)

I’m from a small town in Honduras and grew up in the northern suburbs of Chicago. Some of my earliest and happiest memories involve kicking a hard plastic soccer ball with neighborhood kids on our rough cobblestone street until nightfall. It’s a miracle my ankles and knees are still intact, but those carefree moments as a child were too much fun to pass up, even if it meant getting a bit hurt. Looking back on those days always brings a smile to my face.

Throughout my youth, I played in park district leagues, travel teams, and various ethnic and community leagues. After high school, I attended Northern Illinois University on a partial academic scholarship, where soccer took a back seat as I focused on my studies. I earned a B.S. in Engineering and later an M.S. from DePaul University in Chicago.

Despite the shift in focus, I stayed connected to the soccer community, playing in summer leagues whenever I could. I recognized the positive impact soccer had on me and others in my community, which inspired me to start coaching as a volunteer for the local park district. I’ve been fortunate to gain valuable coaching experience and learn important life lessons, thanks in part to the wonderful friendships and mentors I’ve met along the way. A serendipitous encounter years later, stemming from one of those relationships, brought me to Chicago City. Whether it was fate or just chance, I couldn’t have asked for a better opportunity. Chicago City embodies professionalism, pride, community, and family, values that resonate deeply with me, and I’m excited to be a part of it.

Through my experiences, I’ve learned that soccer knows no boundaries and connects people from all walks of life. The friendships I’ve formed as a player are truly global, and I cherish the rich diversity within the soccer community in Chicago.

Every time I step onto the field as a coach, I’m reminded of those endless days of kicking the ball around as a child, filled with energy and enthusiasm, eager to pass that joy along to others.

Tommy O'Neil

UEFA A (2yrs)

Luis Espinoza

USSF D (2yrs)

Michelle Donahue

USSF D (2yrs)

I was born and raised in the western suburbs of Chicago. After pursuing my academic studies in
Ohio, my husband and I landed back in the Fox Valley to raise our family.


My coaching career began when my daughters began their journey into the game of soccer, but
my love of the game began at the age of 4 when I kicked my first soccer ball.


I am a lifelong fan of the game and my favorite teams to watch include Manchester City, the
Chicago Red Stars, and the USWNT.


I am proud to coach for Chicago City Soccer Club , and my daughter is proud to play for the
club.

Ivan Heredia

USSF C (1yr)

I was born in Mexico and grew up in Santa Cruz California. Then moved here Aurora Illinois where I graduated from West Aurora High School. Soccer was a part of my life from the moment I was born. My dad was a goalkeeper and I grew up watching him play but I wasn’t always a keeper I was a field player first before I was thrown in the goal after our gks were hurt. Never saw the field again and I protected the goal with my life from that moment on. 1994 I wanted to be like Jorge Campos the best goalkeeper Mexicos National team has ever had. I even dressed like him and had all his gear.

After playing and getting to see the soccer world in different countries like Brazil, Mexico, Portugal, England and the USA I decided to give back and show what I have learned throughout my playing years. Chicago City Soccer Club has giving me the opportunities to show the passion and dedication I have for the sport that makes me smile. To get to understand every single player that I come in contact with. To not only know him/her as a player but as a young human being.

I am here to make a difference in someone’s life and share the joy I feel when I coach.

My top clubs are Club America and Manchester City. I am happily married with 4 amazing kids and my wife Gina and 2 dogs Mickey and Minnie. 

Amber Zola

USSF Grassroots (1yr)

I am originally from Sugar Land, Texas, where I played college soccer at the University of Houston-Victoria before earning a degree in Criminal Justice from the University of Houston-Downtown.

Discovering a passion for the sport, I joined Chicago City Soccer Club in 2023, where I found the passion to be a coach.  I enjoy coaching young girls, inspiring them to excel, foster a love for the game, and create a safe, encouraging environment.

Outside of soccer, I enjoy the company of my two dogs, Milo and Koda.  

Barry Cummings

USSF A & MAT Education (1yr)

I was born and raised in Greenock, Scotland, and in 1997, I moved to the U.S. to work at summer camps with BUNAC and eventually with Welsh Soccer Camps in the Midwest. This opportunity became a stepping stone that led me to play collegiate soccer at Baker University in Kansas, where I earned both a B.S. and a MAT in Education. This was a very proud moment in my life, as I was the first person in my family to attend and graduate from college.

A fun fact: I was the oldest soccer player in college in 2004, graduating as a 31-year-old senior, making the experience both memorable and rewarding. I feel incredibly fortunate to have had the chance to play during that time.

Most of my soccer experience comes from Kansas, where I have accumulated 25 years of coaching at all levels, including Youth, ODP, High School, and College soccer. Over a 10-year span, I earned numerous coaching certifications, including the USYSA Youth Y, NSCAA Premier Diploma, and the USSF A License. It was during the USSF A License course that I met Nick Mulvaney, the Founder and Director of Chicago City SC. We’ve been close friends ever since, sharing many similar values and beliefs about coaching. I’m excited to be part of the team and contribute to the club’s success.

In my free time, I enjoy playing golf, traveling, studying history, and embracing all things Scottish. I support Celtic, a club I was fortunate enough to play for as a youth in Scotland. Soccer runs in my family—my father, John, and brother, Paul, both played professionally, so it's safe to say that soccer is in our blood. I’m thrilled to be here, working alongside Nick and his talented team of coaches.

GO CITY!

Michael Cherco

USSF D (1yr)

Juan Espinoza

USSF Grassroots (1yr)

I was born and raised on the Southside of Chicago, where my passion for soccer began with memories of kicking a ball in the alley near my home, using trash bins as goalposts. From those early moments, soccer became an integral part of my life.

In 2022, I began my coaching career on the Northside of Chicago, working closely with the recreational program P2 in various team trainings and summer camps. Soon after, I was introduced to Chicago City Soccer Club, and I immediately connected with the club’s mission to develop not just skilled players but well-rounded individuals.

Chicago City’s commitment to fostering character, teamwork, and personal growth through soccer deeply resonated with me.In addition to embracing the club’s mission, I became heavily involved in the community programs we offer, where I found a deeper purpose in coaching and mentoring the youth. These programs aim to bring soccer to underserved areas, providing opportunities for kids who may not have access to structured sports activities. Being part of this initiative has allowed me to use soccer as a tool for positive change.

Working with these communities has been incredibly rewarding, as it allows me to give back to areas similar to where I grew up, while helping young athletes grow both on and off the field.

At Chicago City, I value the holistic approach we take, focusing not only on soccer but also on guiding kids through life’s challenges. My coaching philosophy is built on the principles of hard work, respect, and integrity—values I strive to instill in every player I work with.

Currently, I’m on the path to acquiring my D License, furthering my commitment to providing the highest quality coaching for the players I mentor. I’m committed to continual growth, both for myself and my players, and I'm proud to work alongside passionate individuals who share the same goals. It’s incredibly rewarding to know that I’m contributing to something meaningful—providing the kind of mentorship and coaching experience I longed for as a kid and helping to shape the next generation of soccer players from my own hometown.

Gareth Corrigan

USSF C & MA Sports Leadership (1yr)

I was born in Dublin, Ireland, and have spent most of my life in Athboy, County Meath. Throughout my youth, I played for several top teams in the area. At 18, I began my journey to the U.S., where I played collegiate soccer in Upstate New York and Iowa.

Most recently, I completed my Master’s Degree in Sports Leadership while serving as the assistant coach for the University of Jamestown Women's soccer team, where we achieved an impressive two-year undefeated record in conference play.

My deep passion for soccer drives my commitment to fostering sports excellence. I believe in creating an environment that nurtures talent, instills values, and offers opportunities for growth both on and off the field. I advocate for a holistic approach to player development, focusing on technical skills, tactical understanding, and character building.

I’m dedicated to building strong partnerships within the Chicago community, as I believe that together we can inspire and empower young athletes to reach their full potential, positively impacting their lives and those around them.

As a devoted Chelsea Football Club supporter, I’ve always admired players like Didier Drogba. I started coaching at 15 with my local club, Athboy Celtic, and my passion for coaching has taken me around the world. I’m also a proud supporter of the Irish national soccer team and cherish the moments I get to attend their games.

One of my fondest memories is watching Ireland defeat Italy 1-0 at the 2016 European Championships—an experience I’ll always treasure, especially given the legendary spirit of Irish supporters.

As I embark on this exciting journey with Chicago City SC, I’m committed to fostering an environment of open communication, collaboration, and respect. I look forward to meeting everyone and getting to know the community!

Ryan Ruzicki

USSF D (1yr)

I was born and raised in a small town in New Jersey, just a few miles outside of New Brunswick, home of Rutgers University. I began playing soccer at a young age but began to fall in love with the game once I attended my first professional New Jersey MetroStars soccer match with my recreational team. 

As my passion for the sport continued to grow I carried on playing travel and academy soccer for multiple New Jersey clubs with my last stop before college being NJSA 04, Tab Ramos’s club. Playing at a top level club and High School allowed me the opportunity to be recruited and play D3 soccer at Kean University. In 2020 I graduated with a degree in Business Management. During my time in college, I was also able to go oversees and try to pursue a professional dream with a trial at a Serie D Club outside of Turin, Italy

I hold a USSF D License now, but I began coaching while in college at a grassroots level. I progressed to working with players of all levels from recreational/town teams to elite academy clubs in NJ/NY. My last stop was with the New Jersey Olympic Development (ODP) Program for two years before finally coming to Chicago City in 2023. 

I am excited to continue my coaching journey with Chicago City and thrilled to be part of such a great organization.

My favorite club is Chelsea FC, but also a huge New York Jets fan. My favorite food has to be pizza and although nothing beats a NY style slice of pizza, Chicago is a close second. 

Yazen Bakri

USSF Grassroots (1yr)

I was born and raised in Chicago, and from a young age, soccer has been a central part of my life. I’ve played the sport with passion and dedication for as long as I can remember. But as I grew up, another passion began to take root alongside soccer: medicine.

During my undergraduate years at the University of Illinois at Chicago, at just 18 years old, I returned to my alma mater, Disney II Magnet High School, to coach the varsity soccer team. That experience allowed me to see the sport from a different perspective, and it drew me even closer to it. While coaching and studying, I became an EMT, which eventually led me to Chicago City Soccer Club. There, I had the opportunity to volunteer as an EMT for the USLW and USL2 teams, combining my passion for medicine and soccer. This experience allowed me to integrate my medical knowledge with my love for the sport, opening the door for me to further coach high school teams for Chicago City.

I feel privileged to have the opportunity to serve as an EMT for Chicago City, providing medical care while also making an impact in the lives of the players I coach, helping them grow not just as athletes but as individuals. Now, at 22 years old, I look back and see how coaching has strengthened invaluable skills like communication, leadership, and problem-solving, all of which are directly transferable to the field of medicine. Having just graduated from university in May of 2024, I have applied to medical school with hopes of becoming a sports medicine physician. I’m incredibly grateful for the opportunities to continue blending my passion for soccer with my commitment to medicine at Chicago City, and I’m excited for what the future holds!

Paul Cleary

USSF Grassroots & MSc Business Strategy & Innovation (1yr)

I was born and raised in Dublin, Ireland, and I moved to Chicago at the beginning of 2024. It has been a fantastic experience so far!

As a huge sports fan, I've been involved in sports for most of my life, and I’m incredibly fortunate to have fulfilled my dream of becoming a full-time professional soccer player. I played professionally back home in our National League for St. Patrick’s Athletic and Wexford F.C. Two of my career highlights were playing against Premier League side Chelsea F.C. and captaining Wexford in numerous matches. This past summer, I had the honor of captaining our USL 2 team, which was an amazing experience, playing the game in a different culture and alongside new players.

With over 20 years of playing experience, I’m excited to pass on my knowledge to the players at CITY! Throughout my career, I’ve been guided by incredible coaches and role models who not only taught me valuable lessons in soccer but also in life. I look forward to being that same mentor for the players at Chicago City Soccer Club.

I’m also passionate about giving all kids the opportunity to play soccer. At CITY, there’s a strong emphasis on making soccer accessible for everyone through the Chicago Soccer Foundation. I’m thrilled to be part of that initiative and hope kids around the Chicago area find the same joy in the game that I experienced.

I am excited to meet all of our CITY families, and I hope to see you at a game or practice soon!

Alexis Orriols Maruf

USSF D (1yr)

I was born in New York and raised in Argentina, my parents are from Argentina.

I started playing soccer when I was 11 years old, having a nice experience playing with my Argentinian team in Brazil and other cities, also played futsal

I began my coaching career as a Community Coach with CITY in 2023 before making the step into club teams as an assistant coach, and in the Fall 2024, I was assigned 2 teams.

Last May I earned my USSF D Coaching license and I am excited to take on the C in the near future.

My favorite team is BOCA JUNIORS, Argentina team, also I'm very fan of the Argentina league

I like to play sometimes Fifa and study a little bit more about soccer.

Conor Walsh

UEFA B & MSc Sports Management (1yr)

I am from a small town called Ennis in the West of Ireland. Throughout my life I have been heavily involved in a multitude of sports.

Gaelic Football, Hurling & Soccer have all played a prominent role in my upbringing. However it was the sport of soccer which captivated the imagination.I have witnessed first hand the influence which a coach can have on a young persons life and that inspired me to begin my coaching journey at 15 years of age.

Over the last 14 years I have coached in full time and part time roles across all age groups in the male and female game. I am very fortunate to have combined my love of travel with my passion for football having coached in England, the United Arab Emirates & Canada prior to moving to Chicago. There is nothing which fulfills me more than watching former players move up the ladder in their sporting or professional careers. I am even more lucky to have worked with esteemed educators over the years to this day who's guidance I still regularly seek.

It is this passion to improve and learn which drives me on a daily basis. Chicago City as an organization represents many of these values and upon speaking to Nick several years ago I have been drawn by the club's journey. Now I am honored and delighted to play my role in the continued progress of Chicago City.

My hobbies include the outdoors, podcasting and Chelsea Football Club where I held a season ticket for 2 seasons.

Jimmy Wilcox

USSF Grassroots (1yr)

My passion for soccer grew as a young kid in CT. I was influenced by my dad's love for the game which was passed down to me. To this day my dad and I still share this connection through the game. He still tells me on the phone about what his over 70s team is doing wrong.

I played youth soccer in CT in a local academy and from an early age my dad would bring me to play men's leagues where I was able to understand the game on a deeper level.

At the age of 18 yrs old I tore my ACL which taught me many lessons that I took on to play collegiate soccer at Springfield College, Lycoming College, and Western Connecticut University.

After College I spent pre season with multiple USL clubs before playing in a showcase in Denmark where I was signed by a club in the Faroe Islands and played full time. I would be able to gain playing experience in Faroe Islands, Poland, and Spain before playing one more professional season in Canada.

Simultaneously I continued my education of the game via video analysis starting at the time of my ACL injury. This pursuit led me to create my own brand (Modern Football Analyst), write two books, work with the likes of Nuri Sahin, Orlando Pirates, and Arsenal F.C. who I currently work for today.

I am looking forward to continuing my work with CITY as we look to truly elevate our players and staff.

Jesus Castellon

USSG D & USYF(Futsal) Level 3 (1yr)

I was born and raised in West Palm Beach, Florida. I played club soccer and school growing up. I also played collegiately at Iowa Central Community College and Keiser University. After graduating, I played in multiple semi-professional leagues, as well as professional indoor soccer out of Atlanta, GA.


The love for the sport has taken me around the world. Futsal and small sided soccer has played a major role in my specialization within technical play. In Georgia, I began my coaching career. I have my US Soccer National D License, and hold a United States Youth Futsal Level 3 State License.


In my spare time, I love watching the Premier League, my favorite team is Manchester City. I am thrilled to continue my coaching career at Chicago City.

Vadim Cojocov

UEFA B (1yr)

I was born in Moldova and raised in Dublin, Ireland. I developed a deep love for soccer from a young age.

My journey took me to the USA, where I pursued collegiate soccer at Columbia College, honing my skills and determination. After college, I had the opportunity to play professionally in the USL1 and Major Arena Soccer for the St. Louis Ambush and Sima Academy, where I gained invaluable experience on and off the field.

Transitioning into coaching was a natural next step for me. I spent four years at Lou Fusz Athletic, where I worked with players across all levels, from recreational teams to the elite academy level in GA/MLS Next. This experience ignited my passion for developing young talent and fostering a love for the game.

Currently, I am excited to continue my coaching journey with Chicago City, where I aim to enhance my coaching education and work collaboratively with my team to achieve our goals. I believe in creating an environment that inspires growth, teamwork, and a lifelong love for soccer.

Dillon Wheeler

USSF Grassroots (1yr)

I was born and raised in Chicago, growing up in Old Town. I started playing soccer at a young age in programs like AYSO, before moving on to play club soccer in Highschool. I played varsity soccer for Jones College Prep and joined Chicago City as a player at the end of my sophomore year.

Playing at Chicago City gave me the belief to pursue playing college soccer. I went to the College of Wooster where I played for their first team, and graduated with a degree in Statistical and Data Sciences.

My Senior Thesis used machine learning models trained on match data to predict results in the Premier League. After college I pursued other opportunities in data analytics while coaching part-time as a coach for Monterey Surf Soccer Club in Monterey, California. Now being back in Chicago with my former club, I am excited to continue to blend my two passions of soccer and data analytics. I am looking forward to continuing my coaching education with Chicago City and to use my experience in data analytics to assist in the development of our players.

Guilherme Bravin

UEFA B (1yr)

I was born and raised in Rio de Janeiro, in the Mangueira favela, considered the birthplace of samba. The memories of my childhood and youth are closely linked to soccer and samba, as the neighborhood is located next to Brazil's most iconic soccer stadium, the Maracana.

I started playing Futsal for the team that bears the same name as my neighborhood and has the colors green and pink. When I was 12, I switched from Futsal to Soccer and went to play for the Sao Cristovao club, the same club where Ronaldo Nazario started his soccer career.

I came to the USA for the first time in 2019 after finishing my university degree in Physical Education in Rio. Since then I've traveled to a few countries and wherever I am I try to identify how each culture sees and plays soccer.The more I travel the more I see that soccer is not about rules and shirts and angles and pitches. It's about people, about affections, about memories. It's about creating moments for our children to remember in the future, as I am able to remember today, with affection and gratitude to family and friends. Soccer has that power and that magic.

In the 2023-2024 season I completed my UEFA coaching license with the Spanish Football Federation and worked as a coach for the U13 and U9 teams of Rayo Vallecano, a passionate and traditional club in the city of Madrid.

My favorite team is Flamengo, whose great idol is Zico. Besides Zico, my favorite players are Marta and Ronaldinho.

I like to spend time with my family and friends, especially if it's on a beach, playing Footvolley or in a “roda de samba”.

Noah Kappel

USSF Grassroots (1yr)

I was born and raised in Baraboo Wisconsin, a small town about an hour north of Madison and just south of the Wisconsin Dells. I began playing soccer at a young age but began to really fall in love with the game once I started watching professional soccer. As my passion for soccer grew, I started making the drive to Madison so I could play with a more competitive club team. 

Eventually, I made my way to the Chicagoland area when I began attending Benedictine University in Lisle where I also played soccer for 4 years. In 2022 I graduated with a degree in Social Studies and Secondary Education. I began teaching the following fall while also coaching both boys and girls high school soccer. After 2 years, the opportunity to coach with Chicago City came up and I made the decision to turn my passion into a new career! 

I feel so lucky to be a part of this club as I look forward to developing as a coach and working with an amazing team here in the great city of Chicago. I hope to pass on my passion for the game to all those I coach and help them develop as players and people!

David Gonzalez

USSF Grassroots (1yr)

I was born and raised in Chicago, Illinois, but both of my parents are from Mexico City, the capital of Mexico, and they moved to the U.S. in 1998.

I started playing soccer at the age of 4, and my love for the sport has been with me ever since. Interestingly, I never saw myself becoming a coach—it’s one of those surprises life throws at you. I've played at different levels, including travel soccer, which was a fantastic learning experience.

I attended Morton East High School for my first two years and then transferred to St. Laurence High School, where I graduated in 2022. I played varsity soccer during my junior and senior years at St. Laurence, and in my sophomore year, I had the incredible opportunity to play in Spain with a travel team. That same year, I also had the chance to try out for a professional team in Mexico, which was one of the best experiences of my playing career. Throughout it all, I’ve always been a goalkeeper.

After high school, I played my first year of college soccer at Malcolm X College before transferring to Richard Daley College for my second year. Our program has been growing and improving over the last two years, and it’s been a great experience. Currently, I’m an assistant coach at Richard Daley College, primarily working with the goalkeepers, while pursuing an Associate Degree in Arts.

A little bit about me—I love watching Netflix in my free time and am a big coffee enthusiast. Sometimes, I unwind by playing video games. My favorite goalkeeper has always been Keylor Navas, and I admire Pep Guardiola as a coach. I’m also a loyal supporter of Cruz Azul, a team in Mexico’s first division.

My goal is to keep developing as a coach and to help as many players as I can. I’m passionate about the game, and I’m excited to keep learning and meeting new players at the club.

Matt Conti

USSF D (1yr)

I was raised in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania into a soccer family. My father played Division 1 soccer at Howard University and all 6 of my siblings play soccer as well. I played for Arsenal FC of PA during my youth. At 14 I was gifted the opportunity to move to Italy and play for the Serie A club Chievo Verona. The experience I gained at Chievo allowed me to join the Barça Academy DA in Arizona for the remainder of my youth career.

After playing college soccer at Elmhurst University, I played in multiple semi-professional leagues around the country. I discovered my love for coaching the game a few years ago through coaching soccer camps as well as training players at TOCA Football. I spent my first year as a team coach with FCX in Barrington and I discovered Chicago City through playing with our USL Program where I was offered an opportunity to make the switch to coaching at the club this fall. 

I love working with young children and building their love for the game of soccer. I’m beyond excited to coach for this amazing club and look forward to seeing what I can offer both the club and the communities we work with.

Antonio Gonzalez

USSF Grassroots (1yr)

I was born in Mexico City, but my family moved to Chicago when I was just 2 years old. Since then, I’ve developed a deep love for this city.

Growing up watching the Mexican national team, I always knew I wanted to play football. As my playing days came to an end, I found a natural connection to coaching and started coaching a small team back in 2018.

While attending Northern Illinois University, where I recently graduated with a bachelor’s in Sport Management, coaching took a bit of a back seat. However, I knew it was something I wanted to pursue long-term. During the summer of 2023, I interned with Chicago City as part of their game day operations team for the USLW/USL2 teams. I quickly realized that our values and love for the city were aligned. Now, after over a year of being involved with the club, I’m thrilled to begin my coaching journey with CITY!

Isabella Lucy

USSF D (1yr)

I started playing the beautiful game in Germany, where I was born, and
continued in South Korea and Italy, where I grew up. My coaching
career began in Naples, Italy, while playing in Serie A2 and B for
several years.

In 2014, I moved to Washington, D.C. for college and
earned my first coaching license during that hiatus. After graduating,
I began coaching competitive travel soccer while also playing
professional futsal with Alexandria Pro Women.

As a premier soccer coach with over 10 years’ experience, I bring a
unique perspective to the game, with an emphasis on the social,
emotional, and psychological dimensions of athletes. I have a balanced and intentional approach to coaching and relationship building, developed from years of learning, coaching, and playing in different environments. I’m excited to contribute to Chicago City’s mission to grow the next generation of young footballers and help kids reach the highest levels of competition.

Eoin Broughan

USSF D & MBA Business Admin Management (1yr)

Born in Dublin, Ireland, I’ve been passionate about football from a young age. I started playing for Ashbourne United F.C., where my dad, a major influence in my life, coached me. I later played with St. Patrick’s Athletic and Drogheda United in the League of Ireland Academy.

I studied at Coláiste Íde in Dublin, which helped me earn a scholarship to the U.S. At 18, I moved to Grand Rapids, Michigan, to play soccer at Davenport University, where I graduated with a bachelor’s degree in Marketing in 2023. I’m currently pursuing my MBA at Roosevelt University, an NCAA Division II institution, where I have the privilege of serving as the Men’s Soccer Assistant Coach.

My coaching journey began at 16 in Ireland and continued with Michigan Rangers F.C. in Grand Rapids, where I coached for five years. I hold a USSF D license and am committed to ongoing learning and growth in coaching. As my dad always says, "the day you stop learning is the day you stop living."

On a personal note, my girlfriend Emma from Grand Rapids, MI, and I recently moved to Lakeview East in Chicago. I enjoy spending time at a lake in the summer, watching Notre Dame college football, and drinking coffee, Barry’s tea, along with any Irish snacks I can find.

Anton Mukhin

USSF Grassroots (1yr)

Originally from England, my soccer journey began at the age of 10. During my time in England, I played for the pro academies of Wycombe Wanderers and QPR FC. After that, I joined Maidenhead United FC, where I also kickstarted my coaching career as a goalkeeper coach for their youth academy.

At 19, I moved to St. Louis, MO, to play college soccer. Over the course of five successful years, I helped my team make multiple conference tournament appearances and earned several individual honors, including Team of the Week and All-Conference awards. As my playing career progressed, I gradually shifted towards coaching.

After college, I was fortunate enough to spend some time playing in MASL 1 with the St. Louis Ambush. Concurrently, I coached at Scott Gallagher, where I directed both the Goalkeeper Academy and the Sports Performance Academy at Elite FT Training.

After a year, I moved to Cleveland to take on the role of assistant coach for the men's soccer team at Lake Erie College. Over two years, we made two national tournament appearances, reaching the national semifinals in my first year. During my time there, I helped develop several All-Conference and All-America players and assisted five players in moving on to nationally ranked Division I programs.

Now, I'm eager to help develop the next generation of talented players. As a coach, my focus extends beyond just improving soccer skills—I strive to develop well-rounded individuals who can apply the principles they learn both on and off the field.

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