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

An inspirational, values-driven leader who combines thoughtful learning with openness to new ideas and innovation.

Leads with empathy, trust, and care, fostering a family-centered culture that prioritizes health, well-being, and people-first performance.

A trusted mentor who empowers others, creates opportunity, and consistently challenges teams to grow and reach higher standards.

A knowledgeable, approachable, and authoritative leader—innovative, hardworking, and deeply invested in the success of people and the organization.

A visionary and trailblazer, building a strong club culture, raising industry standards, and creating lasting impact for CITY and the Chicago community.

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.

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

Provides exceptional support in every situation, offering thoughtful, critical analysis and dependable problem-solving.

A kind, caring, and trusted leader who is always willing to help and support those around her.

Highly reliable and consistently responsive, playing a vital role in the ongoing success of the club.

Possesses a deep understanding of club operations and league structures, bringing clarity and confidence to complex situations.

A tireless worker and true team player who goes above and beyond, serving as the backbone and connective force of CITY.

Approachable, positive, and professional-creating a comfortable environment that enables others to perform at their best.

I’m originally from Belfast, and my coaching journey has taken me across the UK, Canada, China, and the United States, working in professional clubs, academies, and national development environments. I’ve held roles as a Head Coach and Director of Player and Coach Development, and I’ve been fortunate to learn from strong mentors and experienced staff in different football cultures. 

I’m now the Director of Football & Innovation at Chicago City Soccer Club, where I lead the football department across methodology, staff development, talent identification, and player pathways. My focus is on building clear systems, a strong football identity, and environments that support long-term player development.

Alongside my work at the club, I’m also the Co-Founder and President of HeadCoach, a sports technology platform designed to improve performance and well-being through emotional intelligence. 

At the core of my work is a passion for player development and helping players and coaches grow both on and off the field. Outside of football, I enjoy running, hiking, and reading.

PEER REVIEW

A trusted mentor whose emotional intelligence and guidance have significantly shaped the growth of both players and staff.

Brings deep football knowledge, sharp intelligence, and innovative ideas that consistently elevate the club.

Widely regarded as a transformative influence—responsive, impactful, and committed to continuous learning and teaching.

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.

PEER REVIEW

Very patient, knowledgeable, intelligent, & curious.

Always very prepared & willing to share knowledge.

Very active listener who communicates well.

Sincere, leads with empathy, & always willing to help.

Strong leadership who brings people together.

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

Brings calm, clarity, and reassurance in tense or chaotic situations, offering wisdom, perspective, and practical solutions.

Insightful, articulate, and professional - n excellent listener who communicates with purpose and confidence.

A highly organized and driven leader who works tirelessly to grow and oversee the locations, consistently contributing strong ideas and strategic direction.

An insightful and knowledgeable coach who creates a positive, challenging learning environment for players and staff.

A committed team player - hardworking, positive, and deeply invested in the success and development of others.

Always willing to help and support those around him, demonstrating a strong desire to serve players both on and off the field.

Brings extensive global experience and a deep understanding of the game, adding significant value to the organization.

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!

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.

PEER REVIEW

Hard-working, kind, and trustworthy, consistently bringing organization and reliability to everything.

A strong advocate for the girls’ game who genuinely cares about creating positive, high-quality experiences for all involved.

Brings exceptional energy and commitment to supporting the players, both on the field and at matches, always looking to elevate the group.

Provides thoughtful, honest feedback from the perspective of a parent within the club, offering valuable insight that helps CITY continue to improve and better serve its members.

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.

PEER REVIEW

- respectable with strong values aligned with the organization.

- hard working with a passion to help kids from his community as well as throughout the club.

- confident but willing to learn.

- always available to support others.

- shows a calmness that is admirable from a colleague.

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.

Soccer has been my passion for as long as I can remember. I’ve always loved the game, and growing up, I played on my school and university teams, where I learned the value of teamwork, discipline, and hard work. After moving from Lahore to Karachi and eventually back to Lahore, I pursued a Bachelor's in Business Administration with a focus on Marketing from the Lahore School of Economics.

My coaching journey began in the summer of 2020 in Boston with Viking Sports, where I coached and directed sports camps. That experience really ignited my passion for coaching and helping players develop both their skills and their love for the game.

In January 2023, I made the move to Seattle, where I began coaching the 2014 and 2012 boys teams at Seattle Celtic. It’s been an incredible experience working with these young athletes and watching them grow. That summer, I also had the chance to direct a two-week Nike soccer camp at the University of Washington, further expanding my coaching experience.

I hold USSF 9v9 and 11v11 licenses, and I’m always striving to improve and challenge myself as a coach. For me, soccer is about more than just the game—it’s about teaching valuable life lessons and I've seen first hand how the sport has the ability to bring together people of different backgrounds.

PEER REVIEW

Consistently demonstrates strong initiative and a reliable, dependable work ethic.

Always ready and willing to support others, making a meaningful and positive impact on the team.

Brings a warm, easygoing personality that makes interactions enjoyable and adds a genuine human touch to the environment.

Born in Poole, England, I’ve been playing football since I could walk. Growing up, I played many sports - rugby, cricket, soccer, and tennis - and was fortunate to represent my state in both cricket and tennis.

At 14, I made the decision to focus fully on soccer, even though I come from a rugby family - my dad, grandad, and great-grandad all played rugby for England. At 16, I made my first senior appearance for Bashley Football Club, where I played before moving to the U.S. in 2020. I attended Davenport University in Grand Rapids, Michigan, competing in NCAA Division II soccer for five years. During that time, I won a conference title, reached the NCAA National Tournament twice and, graduated in 2025 with a Bachelor’s Degree in Sport Management

My coaching journey began at 14 in England and has continued here in the U.S. 2023–2024 Assistant Coach, Reeth-Puffer High School Boys (Division 2). 2025 Assistant Coach, Grand Rapids Calvin Christian Girls (Division 4)

I’ve now taken the next step in my career, committing to full-time coaching with Chicago City. I’m excited to work with our young players, helping them improve their skills, grow in confidence, and love the game even more.

Outside of coaching, I enjoy watching any sport, especially when England is playing. I also enjoy looking for any English foods I can find.

PEER REVIEW

Open-minded and knowledgeable, bringing valuable experience and insight to his work.

Hardworking and highly engaged, combining strong commitment with a great sense of humor.

Brings a positive attitude, infectious energy, high motivation, and a friendly nature that make him a pleasure to work with.

Creative and idea-driven, consistently engaged and exceptional in his ability to connect with and support kids.

Born in Chicago’s West Town and raised in Cicero, I began playing soccer at just three years old alongside my brother on a local youth team. Some of my best memories come from those early years—spending entire Sundays playing the game and long days at the park with family from sunrise to sunset.

I attended Rauner College Prep, a Noble Charter School, where I was fortunate to be surrounded by incredible teachers and coaches who had a lasting influence on me. As a freshman, I was one of only three to make the varsity team and was part of the first IHSA Regional Championship team in school history. The senior leaders on that team set a standard that pushed me to work harder and consistently strive for more.

By my senior year, I had the honor of captaining the boys varsity team. We reached the final but came up short—an experience that shaped my mindset and competitiveness. It taught me to always pursue the highest standard and never settle.

After high school, I faced a major decision: accept a full scholarship to play at Denison University or attend the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, my dream school. I chose Illinois, continuing to play the game recreationally while beginning a new path—helping young players pursue their own goals through soccer.

In 2022, I returned to Rauner as a coach, coming full circle at the place that helped shape me. Since then, I’ve had the opportunity to guide players to championships and support many in earning college soccer opportunities.

In 2026, I joined Chicago City Soccer Club after speaking with my cousin, Coach Arturo Hernandez, about the vision and environment being built here. It was an opportunity to be part of something bigger—a club committed not only to developing players, but to building confident, well-rounded individuals within a supportive and diverse community.

I’m incredibly grateful to be part of Chicago City and to do what I’m most passionate about. My goal is to continue supporting and guiding young players, helping them use the game as a platform to achieve their goals both on and off the field.

I’m originally from San Francisco, California, and came to Chicago by way of Minnesota, where I played collegiate soccer at Macalester College. After graduating in 2019, I began coaching full-time in both the youth and collegiate game. Most recently, I served as the Head Coach of Augsburg University Women’s Soccer. 

Throughout my coaching career, I’ve had the opportunity to work with girls and young women of all ages and skill levels. My passion for growing the women’s game while fostering competitive, supportive, and inclusive environments has remained at the heart of my coaching philosophy.

Outside of soccer, I enjoy staying active, traveling, trying new restaurants, and watching just about every sport! 

I’m originally from Ohio, and in 2014 I moved to the Chicago area to continue my playing career at Elmhurst College. After college, I was fortunate to play professionally across Europe, Central America, and South America, spending time in Poland, Albania, the Dominican Republic, and Brazil. Following my professional career, I returned to Chicago, where I continued playing semi-professionally with Chicago Nation and proudly represented Chicago City Soccer Club against the Chicago Fire in the U.S. Open Cup.

Over the past four years, I have coached at both the youth and collegiate levels, working with Elmhurst University, Chicago State University, and most recently serving as Director of Coaching at Chicago Empire South. I hold a U.S. Soccer National C License and am passionate about helping players develop both on and off the field.

My coaching philosophy is player-centered, demanding, and positive. I strive to create high-energy training sessions where players are challenged, encouraged to be creative, and given the confidence to learn through experience. My goal is to help every player become not only a better footballer but also a more confident, resilient young person.

Outside of soccer, you'll usually find me on the golf course, watching sports, or cheering on Chelsea FC. I’m excited to be joining Chicago City Soccer Club and look forward to continuing my coaching journey while helping players reach their full potential and develop a lifelong love for the game.

I was born and raised in Waterford, Ireland, where my love for football began at a young age. I started my playing career with Villa FC, where I was fortunate to be coached by my dad during my early years, before progressing to Waterford FC in the League of Ireland and later spending time with Wexford FC.

In 2021, I moved to the United States to continue my playing career at the University of Northwestern Ohio (UNOH) before transferring to Davenport University, where I completed my junior and senior seasons. I graduated in 2026 with a Bachelor's Degree in Business Administration.

I began coaching when I was 17 years old in Ireland and have continued to grow my coaching experience in the United States, working with Michigan Rangers since 2024. I hold a U.S. Soccer Grassroots License and am passionate about creating a positive, challenging environment where players can develop both on and off the field.

I believe every player deserves an environment where they can enjoy the game, build confidence, and reach their full potential. I am committed to continuing my own coaching education and look forward to helping every player develop a lifelong love for football.