Meet your coaches
Academy Director
James Ward
James is dedicated to the developing young athletes both on and off the field. with coaching experience and certifications including NFHS levels 1,2,3 and US Soccer 11v11 and 9v9 and Cal South Grassroots coaching, James brings passion and purpose to every training session. He believes in a player -first approach, emphasizing strong fundamentals and emphasizing that success in school is just as important as success on the field. James has also coached special needs athletes, creating opportunities for every player to experience the joy, confidence, and love of the game. He encourages young athletes to let go of mistakes and play with joy. —-” what’s the happiest animal on the planet? A goldfish. Be a goldfish.”
Dmitriy Shklyarov
A lifelong enthusiast of soccer and coaching methodology. Former youth athlete of the Olympic Development School of Spartak Leningrad (in saber fencing). Former development coach of Mid Iowa Football Club (Grinnell, Iowa). Former assistant coach of the Grinnell-Newburg school districts boys soccer team. Former varsity head coach of the South Tama school districts boys soccer team. Assistant coach of u12 -u19 boys and girls soccer teams in Empire Soccer Club.
Head Coach
Assistant Coach
Julian Gonzalez
Coach Julian is a dedicated soccer coach with a strong competitive background, having played in ECNL and at varsity level for Roosevelt High School. Specializing as a left wing and striker, he brings attacking creativity, speed, and game intelligence to his coaching style. Coach Julian is a passionate about helping athletes grown, compete, and reach their full potential.
Kaeli
A Premier soccer academy that develops confident, well-rounded athletes through a player -first approach, emphasizing Foundational skills, education, and lifelong values.
Youth Assistant Coach