My relationship with sport began long before it became a career. It began at home in Dublin, Ireland, surrounded by a family where soccer and Gaelic football were simply part of everyday life.

Some of my earliest and strongest memories are tied to my granddad. We were incredibly close, and as I got older, I began to understand more about his own journey in the game, from playing professionally with Aston Villa and Shamrock Rovers to representing Ireland. Naturally, Aston Villa became my club, but more importantly, his experiences gave me an early appreciation for what sport can mean within a family and the memories and connections it can create across generations.

I was also fortunate to grow up within St. Kevin’s Football Club, one of the great development environments in Irish schoolboy football. My uncle was heavily involved with the club, and from around six years old it became a second home to me. I was surrounded by coaches, players, families and volunteers who cared deeply about the game and about one another. Looking back, I probably did not appreciate how influential that environment was at the time, but so much of what I believe about clubs today was shaped there. A great club is not simply a collection of teams. It is a community, a place people feel they belong, and an environment that can have a lasting influence on who young people become.

At 18, soccer gave me the opportunity to leave Ireland and move to the United States on scholarship to William Carey University in Mississippi. I spent four years playing there and had the privilege of captaining the team during my senior seasons. Leaving Dublin at that age was a significant step, but it opened my eyes to a different sporting culture and started a journey that would eventually take me through the game in New Orleans, Chicago, Dublin and London.

Those experiences exposed me to soccer at many different levels and from very different perspectives. I have been a player, coach and leader, and I have experienced the game across grassroots, collegiate and professional environments. Over time, they helped shape a philosophy that has become increasingly important to me: great sporting organizations are ultimately built around people, culture and community.

That philosophy has had a major influence on the way I have approached building Chicago City Soccer Club. CITY has never been about simply creating more teams or winning more games. The ambition has always been to build something that matters to people. A club where young players are challenged and supported, where families feel genuinely connected, where talented coaches can build careers, and where the relationships and experiences created through sport can stay with people long after the final whistle.

My own development has continued alongside the club’s. In 2024, I completed my Master’s in Sporting Directorship with Distinction, an experience that challenged me to look beyond coaching and think more deeply about leadership, culture, strategy and what it takes to build a sustainable sporting organization. The Sporting Directorship MSc is specifically focused on preparing leaders to operate strategically across modern sporting organizations.

The older I get, the more I recognize that many of the principles guiding me today were planted much earlier. They came from my family, from my granddad, from growing up at St. Kevin’s, from leaving home at 18, and from the coaches, teammates, colleagues and communities I have been fortunate enough to encounter along the way.

Chicago is now home. I married a Chicago girl in Ireland in October 2023, bringing two important parts of my life together in a pretty fitting way. Away from CITY, I enjoy golf, running and biking along the lake, snowboarding whenever Chicago gives us the opportunity, traveling and, like any lifelong Villa supporter, experiencing all the highs and lows that come with following your club.

Sport has taken me much further than I could have imagined as a kid growing up in Dublin. More importantly, it has introduced me to people, places and experiences that have shaped who I am.

Today, I feel fortunate to have the opportunity to take those experiences and use them to help build the kind of club that had such a profound influence on me growing up.

That, more than anything, is what CITY means to me.

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.

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.

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.

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 come from the small village of Puerto Viejo, on the Caribbean coast of Costa Rica.

My soccer journey brings high-level playing experience from three continents. I developed in the youth academies of Deportivo Saprissa and Liga Deportiva Alajuelense, two of Central America's most successful clubs. Later, I continued my career in Germany, competing in the Regionalliga and U19 Bundesliga with Rot-Weiß Oberhausen before representing Costa Rica on the international stage with the U20 and U23 national teams, facing top competition worldwide.

In the United States, I played collegiately at Coastal Carolina University, where I earned a First Team All-Sun Belt selection in 2017, was named the 2018 Sun Belt Preseason Defensive Player of the Year, earned 2018 Preseason All-Sun Belt honors, and served as team captain. Following my college career, I went to the 2019 MLS Draft and played professionally with Detroit City FC.

Most recently, I served as an assistant coach at Loyola University. Prior to that, I spent three years as director of international scouting at Universidad Católica de Murcia in Spain, and coached at Roosevelt University. My coaching experience spans NCAA and professional environments, giving me a broad perspective on player development, recruitment, and team performance. Having lived and worked across different countries, I bring the added advantage of being multilingual, speaking fluent German, Spanish, Portuguese, and English.

Academically, I earned my bachelor's degree from Coastal Carolina University and my master's degree from Roosevelt University. I am currently studying for my USSF National B license.

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’m originally from Rio de Janeiro, Brazil, where my passion for soccer began at a young age. At 11 years old, I joined the youth academy of my childhood club, Fluminense FC, and later played for several local clubs in Rio. These experiences helped shape my love for the game and gave me a strong foundation as both a player and coach.

At 18, I began my coaching journey, working with young players and developing a passion for helping children grow through soccer. Throughout my coaching career, I hold a CBF License C and I’ve had the opportunity to work with clubs such as Maricá FC and Fluminense FC, as well as several clubs in Chicago, Minnesota, and California in 2024/2025. These experiences have allowed me to work with players from different backgrounds and continue developing as a coach.

I’m excited to continue growing as a coach with Chicago City and proud to be part of such a great organization.

Outside of soccer, I enjoy trying different restaurants, watching sports and movies, spending time at the beach, and playing soccer whenever I get the chance.

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.

Jamie Gordon is a Licensed and Certified Athletic Trainer with a B.S. in Athletic Training from North Park University. With experience across collegiate athletics, youth soccer, and clinical healthcare, Jamie is passionate about helping athletes stay healthy, recover from injury, and perform at their best. As Director of Player Care with Chicago City Soccer Club, Jamie oversees injury prevention, rehabilitation, return-to-play protocols, emergency planning, and athlete wellness.

A former collegiate soccer player, Jamie brings firsthand experience as an athlete to their approach to sports medicine and understands the physical and mental demands of competition. Jamie has also volunteered with USA Gymnastics, further expanding their experience supporting athletes across different sports and levels of competition.

Jamie is committed to creating a supportive, athlete-centered environment that prioritizes health, safety, and long-term success.

I was born and raised in Meridian, Idaho and started playing soccer when I was 4 years old. I played soccer, softball, and basketball throughout my youth sport experience. I earned my undergraduate degree from Pacific University in Forest Grove, Oregon, majoring in Exercise Science with a minor in Psychology. During my time at Pacific, I competed in varsity soccer (four years) as well as varsity softball (two years). I continued to pursue my education, earning a Master of Science in Exercise Science and Sport Studies (Sport and Exercise Psychology) from Springfield College and a Doctor of Philosophy in Kinesiology and Sport Studies (Sport Psychology and Motor Behavior) from the University of Tennessee, Knoxville. 

I am currently an Associate Professor and Training Coordinator in the Sport and Human Performance program at Adler University in Chicago, IL, USA. In addition to teaching courses in sport psychology and research, I also oversee all students’ applied training experiences. 

I have had the distinct pleasure of collaborating with Chicago City since 2018 when I moved to Chicago. The club provides their athletes with several opportunities, including working with our students to develop mental skills (e.g., self-awareness, self-confidence, focus) that will help them on the pitch, and in everyday life.

 I was born in Norwich, England and began doing gymnastics when I was 4 years old. I played soccer growing up but quickly specialized in gymnastics. I competed at the National and International level representing England before moving across the pond in 2020 to compete at the Division 1 level for Iowa State. I earned two Undergraduate degrees in Kinesiology (exercise science) and Psychology before coming to Adler University to pursue my master's degrees in Sport and Human Performance as well as Mental Health Counselling. 

My experiences as a high-level athlete ultimately taught me the absolute need for Sport Psychology and the importance of the mental game within sport. I have a deep care for everyone who I meet and am thrilled to have a continued involvement in Sport after it being a part of my life for so many years. 

I am so excited to have the opportunity to help others here at Chicago City Soccer Club!

 I was born in London, England before moving to Houston, Texas at the age of four. As a kid, soccer was my favorite sport, but in high school I committed to running cross country and track year-round. I later attended Southern Methodist University in Dallas, where I double majored in Psychology and Sport Performance & Leadership. During my time at SMU, I also helped coach youth soccer players at summer camps hosted by the men’s and women’s soccer teams. I’m now in graduate school at Adler University, where I’m working towards two master’s degrees in Clinical Mental Health Counseling and Sport & Human Performance.

Sports have always played a big role in my life as an athlete, coach, and fan. My experiences within sport have taught me many life lessons and connected me with so many great people. I’m grateful to be building a career that combines my passion for both sport and helping others grow into their potential. I’m very excited to be joining Chicago City Soccer Club and working alongside such an awesome staff. I also look forward to supporting the players as I’ll be focused on developing the mental side of their performance.

I grew up in Des Moines, Iowa, where I started playing soccer at the age of 5 and continued playing competitively through high school. Throughout my life, I have participated in other sports like basketball and golf, but soccer was always my favorite. in 2024, I earned a bachelor's in psychology with an emphasis in sport psychology from Grand Canyon University, where I spent two years coaching multiple youth soccer teams and providing individual goalkeeper training. Currently, I am a graduate student at Adler University earning dual master's degrees in sport and human performance as well as clinical mental health counseling.

Throughout my time as both an athlete and a coach, I have witnessed the unique need for mental performance training. As an athlete, I always wondered how mental fortitude and emotional regulation would impact performance. As a coach, I saw how different each athlete is and learned about how to tailor my approach to increase performance.

I am thrilled to receive this opportunity and provide mental skills training to the athletes of CCSC!

I grew up in Steamboat Springs, Colorado, where movement and sport were woven into daily life. After exploring many activities, including soccer, I ultimately committed to swimming, volleyball, tennis, and Nordic skiing for more than 15 years. These experiences fueled my passion for human performance, resilience, and supporting others in reaching their potential.

I earned my B.S. in Kinesiology with an emphasis in Sport Psychology from Western Washington University and have spent over eight years working with young athletes as a nanny, swim coach, and tennis coach. I am currently pursuing a master’s degree in Sport & Human Performance at Adler University as I work toward becoming a Certified Mental Performance Consultant (CMPC).

Sports have connected me with inspiring people and transformative experiences, and I’m grateful for the opportunity to collaborate with CCSC coaches and athletes. I look forward to continuing to support athletes in building confidence, resilience, and the mental skills that enhance both their performance and overall well-being.