Director of Coaching
Phone: (970) 683-1121
ErinSharpe@pleasantonrage.org

Erin Sharpe

Years Coaching at RAGE: 2 years

Team(s) Coaching at RAGE: Director of Coaching

Coaching Credentials: 
• USSF ‘A’
• USC Advanced National Diploma
• Franz Hoek Director of Coaching Certificate

Coaching Experience: 
• Over 20 years in club soccer in Coaching and Director roles
• 6 years Head Coach at Colorado Mesa University
• Current NorCal PDP State Coach

Notable Coaching Achievements
Coached multiple ECNL Divisional Conference Championships, USYS National Championship team, various State Cup and other tournament Championships (Coach San Juan SC, 2004-2008; ECNL Director and Coach 2014-2019)
• Co-Founder, Girl’s Director of Coaching and Coach, Colorado West Select Soccer Club (2011-2014)
• NCAA Tournament Selection, 4 Conference Playoff selections and over 80 student-athlete award recipients for athletic and academic achievements at the conference, regional and national levels (Colorado Mesa University 2008-2013) 

Playing Experience:
• Santa Clara University: NCAA National Champions 2001; 2002 National Finalists; 1999 National Semi-Finalist; 2000 National Quarter-Finalist
• Semi-Professional in Switzerland  

Favorite Professional Soccer Player(s): Michelle Akers, Heather O’Reilly, Julie Ertz, Kelley O’Hara, Steven Gerrard, Mo Salah

Enjoy About Coaching: 
I love being a part of a player’s journey as they develop in every facet of the game and in life.  I also love helping players achieve their goals and dreams, whatever they may be.  For those who aspire to play in college or beyond, I am very passionate about assisting them in this process.

Enjoy Doing in Free Time: Playing Pickleball and spending quality time with my Weimalab, family and friends.

Any Other Notable or Fun Facts: 
I am the Chair of the NorCal Women’s Committee and am passionate about improving and promoting all aspects of girl’s and women’s soccer, including increasing and retaining the number of women in leadership positions within the game. 

Recreational Director
Phone: (510) 673-0588
meganwalinski@pleasantonrage.org

Megan Walinski

Years at RAGE: 

Team(s) Coaching at RAGE: Recreational Director

Coaching Credentials: USSF F

Coaching Experience: 
• Pleasanton RAGE
• Ohlone Junior College

Notable Coaching Achievements: 
• State Cup Champions 2006
• Regional Finalist 2006

Playing Experience: 
• Ohlone Jr. College – All American
• San Jose State University

Favorite Professional Soccer Player(s): Rose Lavelle

Enjoy About Coaching: 
I love connecting with the young players and providing a positive environment for them to succeed and excel on and off of the soccer field.

Enjoy Doing in Free Time: 
I enjoy spending time with my family, exercising and shopping.

Any Other Notable or Fun Facts: 
I am a licensed Marriage and Family therapist with a Master Degree in Counseling Psychology from Santa Clara University. Also, I played soccer for Philippe Blin at San Jose State :).

Family: My daughter Olivia plays for RAGE and my son Nate plays for BUSC.

7v7 and 9v9 team Goalkeeper Director
2011 (U12) Premier
2005/2004 Select
Phone: (925) 784-5626
marissakalchik@pleasantonrage.org

Marissa Kalchik

Years Coaching at RAGE: 10 years

Team(s) Coaching at RAGE: 7v7 and 9v9 team Goalkeeper Director, 2011 (U12) Premier, 2005/2004 Select

Coaching Credentials: 
• NSCAA Advanced National
• USSF ‘D’

Coaching Experience: 16 years

Playing Experience: San Jose State, Goalkeeper 2005-2007

Favorite Professional Soccer Player(s): Briana Scurry

Enjoy About Coaching: 
I enjoy helping players set goals & reaching them. I love being able to connect with players and help them learn valuable skills (discipline, integrity, resilience, respect) that will help them in all areas of their lives. I also just love soccer – I love playing and watching; I love the creativity players have and the teamwork that they build.

Enjoy Doing in Free Time: 
I love to read, go hiking, going to the beach & of course playing soccer.

Any Other Notable or Fun Facts: 
I love to teach and have been tutoring since 8th grade. I have lived in 3 different states in the last 4 years. I have 5 brothers and sisters.

Family: 
My husband, Mike, also works in sports sales and operations at UOP. I have three kids Mikey (5.5), Matthew (4) & Emily (1).

11v11 Goalkeeper Director
2010 (U13) ECNL-RL
2009 (U14) ECNL-RL
jimmy@pleasantonrage.org

Jimmy Adranly

Years Coaching at RAGE: 

Team(s) Coaching at RAGE: 11v11 Goalkeeper Director, 2010 ECNL-RL, 2009 (U14) ECNL-RL

Coaching Credentials: 

Coaching Experience:  

Notable Coaching Achievements: 

Playing Experience: 

Favorite Player(s): 

Enjoy About Coaching: 

Enjoy Doing in Free Time: 

Any Other Notable or Fun Facts: 

Family: 

2015-2013 (7v7) AGC
2010 (U13) ECNL
Sarah@pleasantonrage.org

Sarah Fawcett

2012-2011 (9v9) AGC
2008 (U15) ECNL
grant@pleasantonrage.org

Grant Matsumoto

Years Coaching at RAGE: 6 years

Team(s) Coaching at RAGE: 2008 (U15) ECNL

Coaching Credentials: 
• NSCAA Advanced National
• NFHS Fundamentals of Coaching Diploma
• USSF Grassroots

Coaching Experience: 13 years

Notable Coaching Achievements: 
• Alhambra High School Varsity Men’s coach
• Amador Valley High School Varsity Women’s Assistant
• Dougherty Valley High School Varsity Women’s Assistant
• RAGE Excellence in Coaching Award

Playing Experience: 
• Sonoma State 
• Sonoma County Sol NPSL
• San Ramon FC NPSL
• Diablos Professional Futsal

Favorite Professional Soccer Player(s): Rose Lavelle and Xavi Hernandez

Enjoy About Coaching: 
What I enjoy most about coaching is the idea of creating a competitive learning environment so that players have the ability to become the best players they can. 

Enjoy Doing in Free Time: 
I am a teacher, so I love learning new things! I especially enjoy cooking and golfing!

Any Other Notable or Fun Facts: 
I hold a master’s degree in the arts of teaching from Saint Mary’s College and teach the 5th grade in Martinez.

Family: 
I grew up in San Ramon with parents Frank and Rene. I am the oldest of three children. I have a younger sister named Colby and a younger brother named Parker.

2010-2008 (11v11 Stage 1) AGC
2009 (U14) ECNL
alena@pleasantonrage.org

Alena Thom

TECHNICAL STAFF

Years Coaching at RAGE: 3 years

Team(s) Coaching at RAGE: 2009 (U14) ECNL

Coaching Credentials:
• USSF ‘C’
• USC Advanced National Diploma

Coaching Experience: 
• Youth Level 14 years
• College: 4 seasons: 2 seasons at NCAA  DI level and 2 season at Community College level
• Current NorCal Region 3/4 and State PDP Coach

Playing Experience: 
• Semi-Professionally and Professionally in the USA (Various WPSL and W-League teams across the States)
• Two different clubs in Swedish Norettan
• 1st Division Bundesliga in Germany
• Wake Forest University

Favorite Professional Soccer Player(s): Kristine Lilly, Tiffeny Milbrett, Philip Lamb

Enjoy About Coaching: 
I have always enjoyed being part of a team and as a coach, that is still an aspect I love! When you are working for something more than yourself, I believe you can become more than you thought possible and a team environment helps provide that. Contributing to development is also extremely rewarding. Most people don’t see the amount of work that goes into getting from point A to B. Being part of the day-to-day effort, overcoming obstacles, celebrating the successes, and ultimately helping guide players to their potential is another special part of coaching I enjoy.

Enjoy Doing in Free Time: 
Mountain biking and other outdoor adventures, seeking out new experiences and DIY projects.

Any Other Notable or Fun Facts: I tend to read magazines from back to front.

U16-U19 11v11 AGC
2006 (U17) ECNL
WalterPratte@pleasantonrage.org

Walter Pratte

TECHNICAL STAFF

Years Coaching at RAGE: 16 years

Team(s) Coaching at RAGE: 11v11 (U16-19) AGC, 2006 (U17) ECNL

Coaching Credentials: 
• USSF ‘A’
• USSF ‘Y’

Coaching Experience:
25 years, including Club, High School and WPSL

Notable Coaching Achievements: 
Assisting with placing our players into collegiate programs, including 23 players in our biggest class.

Playing Experience: 
• Real Colimas Colorado League, Team Captain; 2000 League Champions/1998-2001
• Puebla Denver Latin League, Team Captain 1995, 1996, 1997; League Champions/1
• Guadalajara Colorado Division 1/1993-1995
• Club Buenaventura Semi-Professional Team Paraguay, Striker 1990-1991; League Champions/1990-1991

Favorite Professional Soccer Player(s): 
Alex Morgan and Leo Messi

Enjoy About Coaching: 
I want kids to learn a sport that will not only make them a good athlete but will make them a good leader on and off the field. I believe soccer gives the opportunity to help build character, discipline, commitment, and the responsibility that an athlete can carry throughout their life. When working with the youth, it is about the ability we have as coaches and parents within a community to bring out the highest playing potential, and in doing so, they become one step closer to achieving their own dreams and aspirations. I love connecting with the needs of youth soccer players of today.

Enjoy Doing in Free Time: 
I believe every girl has a voice that can change the world, starting with her own. The most impactful way to create change and break the cycle of poverty within any community is to EMPOWER and EDUCATE girls, and that is what I have set out to do. One community, one girl at a time! My goals are centered around empowering the next generation of female student-athletes to rise up, make a difference, and become strong leaders in their own communities. I accomplish this through my work with Girls Soccer Worldwide.

Any Other Notable or Fun Facts: 
I was in the Argentina Army.

2015 (U8) Elite
2015 (U8) Premier Head Coach
Phone: (925) 699-6143
TimGray@pleasantonrage.org

Tim Gray

Years Coaching at RAGE: 22 years

Team(s) Coaching at RAGE: 
• 2015 (U8) RAGE Elite, Head Coach
• 2015 (U8) RAGE Premier, Head Coach

Coaching Experience: 
• 22 Years RAGE
• 3 years High School (Kennedy, Mission San Jose, Amador Valley)
• 5 Years Assistant Coach at Ohlone Junior College

Notable Coaching Achievements:
Producing young players with a passion to play the game.

Playing Experience: 
Ohlone Junior College

Favorite Player(s): 
Rose Lavelle and Leo Messi

Enjoy About Coaching: 
Opportunity to work with the next generation of soccer players. Having former players come back and get into coaching because of their positive experiences.

Enjoy Doing in Free Time: 
Car enthusiast.

Any Other Notable or Fun Facts: 
Physical Educator at Mendenhall Middle School

2015 (U8) Elite
2015 (U8) Premier Assistant Coach
Phone: (510) 378-5665
lisawilson@pleasantonrage.org

Lisa Wilson

Years Coaching at RAGE: 18 years

Team(s) Coaching at RAGE: 
• 2015 (U8) RAGE Elite, Asst. Coach
• 2015 (U8) RAGE Premier, Asst. Coach

Coaching Credentials: USSF Grassroots License 

Notable Coaching Achievements: 
Giving first-year comp soccer players the foundation and information to help grow them into great soccer players and even better individuals.

Playing Experience: 
• Ohlone College
• Cal State Hayward

Favorite Professional Soccer Player(s): 
Julie Ertz, Mia Hamm, Thierry Henry, Messi, Iniesta, Gerrard and Eden Hazard

Enjoy About Coaching: 
The moment I see that my player gets it, the concept clicks and they grow.

Enjoy Doing in Free Time: Going to Disneyland and making jewelry.

Any Other Notable or Fun Facts: I love my cats and my fish.

2014 (U9) Elite
2012 (U11) Pre-ECNL
Phone: (508) 397-6921
brian@pleasantonrage.org

Brian Catalano

Years Coaching at RAGE: 3 years

Team(s) Coaching at RAGE: 2014 (U9) Elite, 2012 (U11) Pre-ECNL

Coaching Credentials: 
• USSF ‘A’ 
• USSF ‘Y’
• USC Advanced National Goalkeeping Diploma

Coaching Experience:  11 years 

Playing Experience: Worcester Polytechnic Institute and Cal Poly Pomona 

Favorite Professional Soccer Player(s): Brianna Scurry   

Enjoy About Coaching: 
Giving back to the beautiful game, that had provided so much to me. It is great to help players reach their potential.                

Enjoy Doing in Free Time: Hiking with my dog Swayze, especially anywhere with waterfalls.               

Any Other Notable or Fun Facts: I initially moved to California strictly for the weather. 

2013 (U10) Elite
Phone: (650) 624-6203
nick@pleasantonrage.org

Nick Mangiardi

Years Coaching at RAGE: 22 years

Team(s) Coaching at RAGE: RAGE 2013 (U10) Elite

Coaching Credentials: 
• USSF ‘D’
• NSCAA State Diploma

Coaching Experience: 25 years in club soccer

Notable Coaching Achievements: 
• 4 State Cup Championships with RAGE 
• 2 State Cup finals with the FYSL 

Playing Experience: 
Illinois Institute of Technology

Favorite Professional Soccer Player(s): 
Willie Roy (USA National Player and my nextdoor neighbor when playing in Chicago, Il.)

Enjoy About Coaching: 
Teaching. The joy of seeing youth players improve their skills and life lessons. Staying involved in the game. A positive diversion from day job.

Enjoy Doing in Free Time: 
Photography, cycling, hiking

Family:
 My wife Barb and three daughters (Nicole, Michelle and Jamie), who all played at large Universities.

2013 (U10) Premier
2012 (U11) Premier
lauren@pleasantonrage.org

Lauren Candia

Years Coaching at RAGE: 

Team(s) Coaching at RAGE: 2013 (U10) Premier, 2012 (U11) Premier

Coaching Credentials: 

Coaching Experience:  

Notable Coaching Achievements: 

Playing Experience: 

Favorite Player(s): 

Enjoy About Coaching: 

Enjoy Doing in Free Time: 

Any Other Notable or Fun Facts: 

Family: 

2012 (U11) Orange
2007 (U16) Orange
Elizabeth@pleasantonrage.org

Elizabeth Todd

Years Coaching at RAGE: 

Team(s) Coaching at RAGE: 2012 (U11) Orange, 2007 (U16) Orange

Coaching Credentials: 

Coaching Experience:  

Notable Coaching Achievements: 

Playing Experience: 

Favorite Player(s): 

Enjoy About Coaching: 

Enjoy Doing in Free Time: 

Any Other Notable or Fun Facts: 

Family: 

2011 (U12) Pre-ECNL
Phone: (209) 815-3211
DaveShaw@pleasantonrage.org

David Shaw

Years Coaching at RAGE: 12 years

Team(s) Coaching at RAGE: 2011 (U12) Pre-ECNL

Coaching Credentials: 
• USSF National ‘A’
• NSCAA National Diploma 

Coaching Experience: 21 years

Notable Coaching Achievements: 
• 2014 – 05 State Cup, 1st place, top division
• 2013 – 04 State Cup, 3rd place, top division
• 2012 – 03 State cup, 4th place, top division

Playing Experience: 
Peterborough United Boys (England)

Favorite Professional Soccer Player(s): 
Kelly Smith and Ryan Giggs

Enjoy About Coaching:
Seeing players develop and finding a love for the game that I have.

Enjoy Doing in Free Time: 
Spending time with family, playing soccer and golf.

Any Other Notable or Fun Facts: 
Lived in three different countries: Zambia, England and U.S.A.

Family: 
Wife Lesley, children Natalie and Alistair.

7v7 and 9v9 team Goalkeeper Director
2011 (U12) Premier
2005/2004 Select
Phone: (925) 784-5626
marissakalchik@pleasantonrage.org

Marissa Kalchik

Years Coaching at RAGE: 10 years

Team(s) Coaching at RAGE: 7v7 and 9v9 team Goalkeeper Director, 2011 (U12) Premier, 2005/2004 Select

Coaching Credentials: 
• NSCAA Advanced National
• USSF ‘D’

Coaching Experience: 16 years

Playing Experience: San Jose State, Goalkeeper 2005-2007

Favorite Professional Soccer Player(s): Briana Scurry

Enjoy About Coaching: 
I enjoy helping players set goals & reaching them. I love being able to connect with players and help them learn valuable skills (discipline, integrity, resilience, respect) that will help them in all areas of their lives. I also just love soccer – I love playing and watching; I love the creativity players have and the teamwork that they build.

Enjoy Doing in Free Time: 
I love to read, go hiking, going to the beach & of course playing soccer.

Any Other Notable or Fun Facts: 
I love to teach and have been tutoring since 8th grade. I have lived in 3 different states in the last 4 years. I have 5 brothers and sisters.

Family: 
My husband, Mike, also works in sports sales and operations at UOP. I have three kids Mikey (5.5), Matthew (4) & Emily (1).

2015-2013 (7v7) AGC
2010 (U13) ECNL
Sarah@pleasantonrage.org

Sarah Fawcett

11v11 Goalkeeper Director
2010 (U13) ECNL-RL
2009 (U14) ECNL-RL
jimmy@pleasantonrage.org

Jimmy Adranly

Years Coaching at RAGE: 

Team(s) Coaching at RAGE: 11v11 Goalkeeper Director, 2010 ECNL-RL, 2009 (U14) ECNL-RL

Coaching Credentials: 

Coaching Experience:  

Notable Coaching Achievements: 

Playing Experience: 

Favorite Player(s): 

Enjoy About Coaching: 

Enjoy Doing in Free Time: 

Any Other Notable or Fun Facts: 

Family: 

2010 (U13) Orange
Jack@pleasantonrage.org

Jack Rosenhan

Years Coaching at RAGE: 

Team(s) Coaching at RAGE: 2010 (U13) Orange

Coaching Credentials: 

Coaching Experience:  

Notable Coaching Achievements: 

Playing Experience: 

Favorite Player(s): 

Enjoy About Coaching: 

Enjoy Doing in Free Time: 

Any Other Notable or Fun Facts: 

Family: 

2010-2008 (11v11 Stage 1) AGC
2009 (U14) ECNL
alena@pleasantonrage.org

Alena Thom

TECHNICAL STAFF

Years Coaching at RAGE: 3 years

Team(s) Coaching at RAGE: 2009 (U14) ECNL

Coaching Credentials:
• USSF ‘C’
• USC Advanced National Diploma

Coaching Experience: 
• Youth Level 14 years
• College: 4 seasons: 2 seasons at NCAA  DI level and 2 season at Community College level
• Current NorCal Region 3/4 and State PDP Coach

Playing Experience: 
• Semi-Professionally and Professionally in the USA (Various WPSL and W-League teams across the States)
• Two different clubs in Swedish Norettan
• 1st Division Bundesliga in Germany
• Wake Forest University

Favorite Professional Soccer Player(s): Kristine Lilly, Tiffeny Milbrett, Philip Lamb

Enjoy About Coaching: 
I have always enjoyed being part of a team and as a coach, that is still an aspect I love! When you are working for something more than yourself, I believe you can become more than you thought possible and a team environment helps provide that. Contributing to development is also extremely rewarding. Most people don’t see the amount of work that goes into getting from point A to B. Being part of the day-to-day effort, overcoming obstacles, celebrating the successes, and ultimately helping guide players to their potential is another special part of coaching I enjoy.

Enjoy Doing in Free Time: 
Mountain biking and other outdoor adventures, seeking out new experiences and DIY projects.

Any Other Notable or Fun Facts: I tend to read magazines from back to front.

2009 (U14) Orange
2008 (U15) Orange
Aspen@pleasantonrage.org

Aspen Smith

Years Coaching at RAGE: 

Team(s) Coaching at RAGE: 2009 (U14) Orange, 2008 (U15) Orange

Coaching Credentials: 

Coaching Experience:  

Notable Coaching Achievements: 

Playing Experience: 

Favorite Player(s): 

Enjoy About Coaching: 

Enjoy Doing in Free Time: 

Any Other Notable or Fun Facts: 

Family: 

2012-2011 (9v9) AGC
2008 (U15) ECNL
grant@pleasantonrage.org

Grant Matsumoto

Years Coaching at RAGE: 6 years

Team(s) Coaching at RAGE: 2008 (U15) ECNL

Coaching Credentials: 
• NSCAA Advanced National
• NFHS Fundamentals of Coaching Diploma
• USSF Grassroots

Coaching Experience: 13 years

Notable Coaching Achievements: 
• Alhambra High School Varsity Men’s coach
• Amador Valley High School Varsity Women’s Assistant
• Dougherty Valley High School Varsity Women’s Assistant
• RAGE Excellence in Coaching Award

Playing Experience: 
• Sonoma State 
• Sonoma County Sol NPSL
• San Ramon FC NPSL
• Diablos Professional Futsal

Favorite Professional Soccer Player(s): Rose Lavelle and Xavi Hernandez

Enjoy About Coaching: 
What I enjoy most about coaching is the idea of creating a competitive learning environment so that players have the ability to become the best players they can. 

Enjoy Doing in Free Time: 
I am a teacher, so I love learning new things! I especially enjoy cooking and golfing!

Any Other Notable or Fun Facts: 
I hold a master’s degree in the arts of teaching from Saint Mary’s College and teach the 5th grade in Martinez.

Family: 
I grew up in San Ramon with parents Frank and Rene. I am the oldest of three children. I have a younger sister named Colby and a younger brother named Parker.

2007 (U16) ECNL-RL
2008 (U15) ECNL-RL
amy@pleasantonrage.org

Amy Bains

TECHNICAL STAFF

Years Coaching at RAGE: 

Team(s) Coaching at RAGE: 2007 (U16) ECNL-RL, 2008 (U15) ECNL-RL

• UEFA B License 30.11.2021
• Bachelor of Science Football Coaching, Development and Administration. Grade, First Class Honours. January 2019- November 2021.
• UEFA C Certificate
• USSF Introduction to Grassroots.
• CDC Concussion
• Sudden Cardiac Arrest Training
• Safe Sport
• Safeguarding Children and Emergency First Aid – FA and UEFA
• T2 Fitness Personal Trainer and Gym Instructor Advanced. September 2017.
• FA Level 2 Goalkeeping. 16.08.2018.
• FA Level 2 Futsal. 23.06.2018.
• FA Level 1 Coaching Disabled Footballers. 3.06.2018.
• FA Mentoring Adults. 13.06.2018.
• FA Primary Teachers Award. 23.05.2018.
• UEFA B modules English FA 2018.
• FA Level 1 CPD; Psychology, Behavioral Management, Coaching Goalkeepers, Playmaker, Concussion, Talent Identification, Respect for Coaches and Referees and Sudden Cardiac arrest.
• The FA Equality and Diversity.
• The FA Understanding Anti-Doping, CPD
• Introduction to Scouting within Chelsea FC Philosophy.
• Diploma in Nutrition. August 2017.
• The FA Technical Principles for Young Goalkeeper’s Development Masterclass. 18.05.2017.
• Chelsea FC Talent Identification & Scout
• The New FA Level 2 (Youth Modules included). 2.04.2017
• Level 3 Extended Diploma in Sport. Grade, D*D*D*. 2014-2016.
• The FA Level 1. 25.05.2014.

Coaching Philosophy: 
My aim is to enable all my players to achieve at whatever levels they play, if that means them moving on in their journey to succeed at a higher level surrounded by better players the need to have the opportunities available, if I support and respect them to allow them to leave, I believe they’ll understand and respect me for helping them to achieve at higher levels. That relationship is the one that I want with my players, for them to excel in football and to come back to me being thankful for my help in their development.

There is high importance on how I structure my practices, what content I use and why I am including this. Also, how I behave whilst with my players is vitally important, as my attitude will affect my players in both positive and negative ways and their performance. I have strong views on how my players should behave during training and matches, towards opponents, referees, and teammates. Therefore, I need to ensure that I always set the right example and am a respectable coach.

We pass the ball, to disorganize the opposition, if we see space we exploit it, that’s what we work off the ball to create, all players will be developed to be comfortable on the ball to result in creativity. Everyone in the squad is important, we may all have different qualities; therefore, it is important for us to the team’s advantage. Everyone wants to succeed and improve, as individuals, to achieve in football, you need a team.

Within coaching, it is essential to create a positive learning environment, by keep players interested and motivated by what they are doing and enjoying themselves. If this is not the way, then to help them to regain this an action plan can be in place “to create an environment that fosters pleasure, growth and mastery, coaches can use motivational techniques”. (Weinberg & Gould, 2003, p.124)

For me personally, I’ve always had good respective relationships with my coaches therefore from my experience, I believe that strong relationships are a positive, to keep with development. Having a respectful relationship with a coach makes it easier to allow and act on feedback, sometimes as a player you don’t need verbal feedback to know how well you’ve done or if you need to improve, you can understand from the coaches’ facial expressions or body language. When having verbal feedback when a coach is telling you an area to improve this can be a hard thing to listen to but having a good relationship can mean more personally resulting in a better performance. From a personal experience my worst start to game resulted in my best free kick in my career, my coach brought me to the side line seeing my frustration as my performance wasn’t on form, his words were ” others didn’t think you should have been picked for this squad but I did because I believe in you, so you’re a part of my team, you go out there and show them why you’re here “.  Having relationships allows emotion to be a part of the game. Individual relationships allow teams to progress and understand that to be a part of a team you; succeed together, lose together, improve together, develop together.

The key point that I want to get across to players is to focus on the long term development of themselves and not the most recent of this week’s match result or standing in the league table. Through training, the development of individuals will increase by a vast amount which may lead to a different but improved player who will be able to achieve at higher levels.

I am keen to let players know when they are doing well, as this is a positive in their game, it in effect should increase confidence and motivation. I will also provide constructive feedback when it is required, for their development they need to hear this side from their coaches otherwise they won’t know what areas of their game to improve on.

I have strong passion for the game and want to be able to pass this onto others in an effective way. My aim is to encourage them in the sport(s) they play to love the game for as long as possible and to develop to the levels they wish to succeed at. I will involve other invasion games in my sessions to allow differentiation and players to experience other sports which have similar tactics and skills included.

Tactical. Tactics need to come into my practices to allow players to understand how we defend/attack as units, learn when, where, how and why to focus on using these as a team.

In possession:

Wenger (2017) emphasized that the art of good teams’ progression is to play forward without losing possession.

• Have options in all 9 zones of the pitch to offer support and a number of outlets for the player in possession.
• Encourage creativity (allow mistakes). Pogba, (2016) aged 23 response to a defeat was “we don’t lose we learn”. This shows a maturity and an extensive thought process with a strong mindset towards the modern game.
• Use our pace to penetrate quickly and play through the thirds.

Out of possession:

Figo, (2010) expressed a confidence in Inter Milans’ team shape without the ball, this shows the level of individuals understanding of roles and responsibilities for the team to be comfortable out of possession. Findings from the (UEFA, 2010) champions league, shows that it is evident that Inters’ success was down to team shape, tactical discipline and the speed of transition into a defensive block.

• Compact in zones 2 & 5
• Press the ball in zones 1,3,4,5 & 6
• Instinct defending in zone 2 to protect the goal
• Drop off and delay in zones 7,8 & 9- look to cut off passing angles and options to zone 5 (danger zone for many scenarios).
• Defend as a team and press as units
• Identify triggers to press as early as possible as a team.

Out of possession (1-4-5-1)

When looking to regain possession, 7 & 11 drop back to support 2 & 3. 10 retreats to support 4 & 8. This allows for defending in numbers which supports (Pirlo, 2014) suggesting the defence is the most important part of a team.

Transition:
Quick transitions are key. Our aim is to regain possession in 6 seconds if possible, then settle into our defensive team shape. This is something that as a team we have struggled with this season. Either when reacting to the potential to penetrate wide areas and ensuring that we have width and depth to have options to attack or needing to become compact to prevent play through the middle.
“The quick transition is the most important aspect to quickly restructuring to defend or exploiting the opponent with speed when the ball is regained.” Mourinho cited in FIFA (2004).

College Advisory Committee
2007 (U16) ECNL
jonathan@pleasantonrage.org

Jonathan Decker

Years Coaching at RAGE: 3 years

Team(s) Coaching at RAGE: 2007 (U16) ECNL

Coaching Credentials: USSF ‘E’

Coaching Experience: 
• 5 years coaching youth soccer
• 4 Years at California Lutheran University (Division III)
• 1 year at Moorpark Junior College 

Notable Coaching Achievements: 
Club
• 2019 Semi-Finalists Cal South National Cup
• 2020 Quarter-Finalists Cal South National Cup
• 2019 Semi Finalists of Surf Cup
• 2019 Finalist Coast Soccer League Cup
• 3rd Place California Regional League South
College
• 2017 Southern California Intercollegiate Athletic Conference Coaching Staff of the Year
• 2017 SCIAC Conference Champion
• 2017 NCAA Sweet Sixteen
• 2017 Final Poll #19 in the Country
• 2018 #10 in the Country in Goals Against Average (Worked with Backline and Defensive Midfielders
• 4 Straight Conference Tournament Trips
• 19 All Conference Selections, 10 All-Region Selections,United Soccer Coaches All American, 1 United Soccer Coaches Scholar All-Region 1st Team, 1 United Soccer • Coaches Scholar All-Region 1st Team

Playing Experience: 
California State University, Monterey Bay

Favorite Professional Soccer Player(s): 
Abby Wambach, Steven Gerrard, Ronaldo Nazario 

Enjoy About Coaching: 
Sharing my passion, love and everything I learn about the game with youth players and all other soccer enthusiasts.

Enjoy Doing in Free Time: 
Hiking, Surfing, Camping

Any Other Notable or Fun Facts: 
Inducted Eric Wynalda into the National Soccer Hall of Fame when I was 13. Attended the 2006 World Cup in Germany

Family: 
Mother Irene, Father Scott, Brothers Taylor and Andrew

U16-U19 11v11 AGC
2006 (U17) ECNL
WalterPratte@pleasantonrage.org

Walter Pratte

TECHNICAL STAFF

Years Coaching at RAGE: 16 years

Team(s) Coaching at RAGE: 11v11 (U16-19) AGC, 2006 (U17) ECNL

Coaching Credentials: 
• USSF ‘A’
• USSF ‘Y’

Coaching Experience:
25 years, including Club, High School and WPSL

Notable Coaching Achievements: 
Assisting with placing our players into collegiate programs, including 23 players in our biggest class.

Playing Experience: 
• Real Colimas Colorado League, Team Captain; 2000 League Champions/1998-2001
• Puebla Denver Latin League, Team Captain 1995, 1996, 1997; League Champions/1
• Guadalajara Colorado Division 1/1993-1995
• Club Buenaventura Semi-Professional Team Paraguay, Striker 1990-1991; League Champions/1990-1991

Favorite Professional Soccer Player(s): 
Alex Morgan and Leo Messi

Enjoy About Coaching: 
I want kids to learn a sport that will not only make them a good athlete but will make them a good leader on and off the field. I believe soccer gives the opportunity to help build character, discipline, commitment, and the responsibility that an athlete can carry throughout their life. When working with the youth, it is about the ability we have as coaches and parents within a community to bring out the highest playing potential, and in doing so, they become one step closer to achieving their own dreams and aspirations. I love connecting with the needs of youth soccer players of today.

Enjoy Doing in Free Time: 
I believe every girl has a voice that can change the world, starting with her own. The most impactful way to create change and break the cycle of poverty within any community is to EMPOWER and EDUCATE girls, and that is what I have set out to do. One community, one girl at a time! My goals are centered around empowering the next generation of female student-athletes to rise up, make a difference, and become strong leaders in their own communities. I accomplish this through my work with Girls Soccer Worldwide.

Any Other Notable or Fun Facts: 
I was in the Argentina Army.

2006 (U17) ECNL-RL
2005/2004 (U19) ECNL-RL
2008 (U15) Select
Phone: (650) 255-3776
luis@pleasantonrage.org

Luis Siu

Years Coaching at RAGE: 12 years

Team(s) Coaching at RAGE: 2006 (U17) ECNL-RL, 2005/2004 (U19) ECNL-RL, 2008 (U15) Select

Coaching Credentials: 
• USC National Diploma
• USSF ‘E’

Coaching Experience: 
• 18 years – Coaching club soccer (U7-U18)
• 8 years – Coaching High School soccer at Dougherty Valley High School San Ramon, CA. (Varsity, JV, Frosh/Soph)
• 4 years – Head of the Women’s Soccer Program at Dougherty Valley High School (San Ramon, CA)

Notable Coaching Achievements: 
• (U14) Champions, 2019 Las Vegas Players College Showcase
• (U14) 2nd Place, 2018-2019 NorCal Premier League – NPL
• (U17) 2nd Place, 2016-17 NorCal State Cup
• (U14) 2nd Place, 2019 NorCal State Cup
• (U14) Champions, 2018 Pleasanton RAGE College Showcase
• (U18) 2nd Place, 2017 Pleasanton RAGE College Showcase 
• (U14) 2nd Place, 2017 Pleasanton RAGE College Showcase 
• 2012 Positive Coaching Alliance Award Recipient

Playing Experience: Saint Mary’s College of California (Club Soccer Team)

Favorite Professional Soccer Player(s): 
Marta, Abby Wambach, Alex Morgan, Megan Rapinoe, Rose Lavelle, Johan Cruyff, Ronaldinho, Juan Pablo Riquelme, Luis Figo, Xavi

Enjoy About Coaching: 
The ability to share the love and passion of the game I have with all players I coach because to me soccer is a passion. It is more than a game, it is a way of life!  Where my family comes from (El Salvador) soccer is life and soccer makes people happy. Since I began playing soccer, it has always been fun. I coach because I want to spread my love for this beautiful game, share my knowledge and wisdom of everything I have learned and experienced as a coach and player. Most importantly I coach because I want to instill that same joy of playing this game that I have whenever I coach or play to make sure that the players understand that if you play with heart and passion, it can only make you that much better of a person and player. I wish to inspire young children to take the lessons of hard work, struggle and perseverance learned on the pitch, out into the real world in order to become successful individuals.

Enjoy Doing in Free Time: 
If I am not on the pitch, you can find me either on the water fishing or with my family at a museum or Disneyland.

Any Other Notable or Fun Facts: 
As much as I obsess over soccer, I am equally if not even more obsessed with bass fishing, I have fished since I was 3 years old and have not looked back. I fish for fun and I fish in bass tournaments too. I LOVE IT!

Family: 
I have been married to my amazing wife Yamiletth for 10 years now and we have two amazing young boys-Adriel (6) and Danilo (4). We also have 3 four legged doggies in all sizes: Small- Duck, Medium- Bruster, Large- Duffy.

2005/2004 (U19) ECNL
Phone: (707) 332-8995
mike@pleasantonrage.org

Mike Herman

Years Coaching at RAGE: 3 years

Team(s) Coaching at RAGE: 2005/2004 (U19) ECNL

Coaching Credentials: 
• USSF ‘A’
• USC Premier Diploma
• USC Advanced National Goalkeeper Diploma

Coaching Experience: 
• 10 years as a College Assistant (9 NCAA Division I, 1 NCAA Division II). 3 years at University of San Francisco, 6 years at the University of Hawaii, 1 Year at San Francisco State University. 
• 3 Years of College Head Coaching at Holy Names University (NCAA Division II, PacWest Conference). 
• Head Coach at many various levels of club soccer, from U-13 through U23 levels.

Notable Coaching Achievements: 
Recognized by the 30 Under 30 Program in 2015 by the United Soccer Coaches (formerly NSCAA). Selected as one of the top 30 coaches under 30 in the nation (15 male / 15 Female). Won the 2015 Presidents Cup National Championship in the U15 age group with my Leahi 02 team.

Playing Experience: Saint Mary’s College and Holy Names University

Favorite Professional Soccer Player(s): Tobin Heath, Steven Gerrard, Virgil Van Dyke

Enjoy About Coaching: 
Working with players to reach levels of soccer that they didn’t realize they were able to get to. Helping them grow and accomplish their goals will always be my favorite part of the game. More personally, trying to solve the problems opponents present and out think the other team is one of my favorite aspects of the game. I love gameplanning.

Enjoy Doing in Free Time: 
Hanging out with my family! Love watching Liverpool games with my two girls (Avery and Elia) and otherwise finding fun outdoor activities for us to do as a family.

Any Other Notable or Fun Facts: 
I was a Goalkeeper but fancy myself as a playmaker 😉 I also speak Spanish (Spanish major in college).

Family: My wife Blair, and two daughters, Avery and Elia.

2005/2004 (U19) Orange
michaelGalvan@pleasantonrage.org

Michael Galvan

Years Coaching at RAGE: 

Team(s) Coaching at RAGE: 2005/2004 (U19) Orange

Coaching Credentials: 

Coaching Experience:  

Notable Coaching Achievements: 

Playing Experience: 

Favorite Player(s): 

Enjoy About Coaching: 

Enjoy Doing in Free Time: 

Any Other Notable or Fun Facts: 

Family: 

2014 (U9) Select
2013 (U10) Select II
2011 (U12) Select II

Josh Edwards

Years Coaching at RAGE: 

Team(s) Coaching at RAGE: 2014 (U9) Select, 2013 (U10) Select II, 2011 (U12) Select II

Coaching Credentials: 

Coaching Experience:  

Notable Coaching Achievements: 

Playing Experience: 

Favorite Player(s): 

Enjoy About Coaching: 

Enjoy Doing in Free Time: 

Any Other Notable or Fun Facts: 

Family: 

2013 (U10) Orange
2013 (U10) Select I
2011 (U12) Select III
carlos@pleasantonrage.org

Carlos Quintanilla

Years Coaching at RAGE: 

Team(s) Coaching at RAGE: 2013 (U10) Orange, 2013(U10) Select I, 2011 (U12) Select III

Coaching Credentials: 

Coaching Experience:  

Notable Coaching Achievements: 

Playing Experience: 

Favorite Player(s): 

Enjoy About Coaching: 

Enjoy Doing in Free Time: 

Any Other Notable or Fun Facts: 

Family: 

2012 (U11) Select

Taka Hoshi

Years Coaching at RAGE: 

Team(s) Coaching at RAGE: 2012 (U11) Select

Coaching Credentials: 

Coaching Experience:  

Notable Coaching Achievements: 

Playing Experience: 

Favorite Player(s): 

Enjoy About Coaching: 

Enjoy Doing in Free Time: 

Any Other Notable or Fun Facts: 

Family: 

Head Coach 2012 (U11) Grey
mmarent@pleasantorage.org

Michael Marent

Years Coaching at RAGE: 

Team(s) Coaching at RAGE: Head Coach 2012 (U11) Grey

Coaching Credentials: 

Coaching Experience:  

Notable Coaching Achievements: 

Playing Experience: 

Favorite Player(s): 

Enjoy About Coaching: 

Enjoy Doing in Free Time: 

Any Other Notable or Fun Facts: 

Family: 

2011 (U12) Select I
2010 (U13) Select
Phone:(925) 339-2265
paul@pleasantonrage.org

Paul Cardoso

Years Coaching at RAGE: 4 years

Team(s) Coaching at RAGE: 2011 (U12) Select I, 2010 (U13) Select

Coaching Credentials: USSF ‘D’

Coaching Experience: 8 years

Playing Experience: De Anza College 1992-1994

Favorite Player(s): Lieke Martens and Cristiano Ronaldo

Enjoy About Coaching: 
What I love most about coaching is spreading my joy and love for the “beautiful game” to children. I love seeing their passion for the game grow.

Enjoy Doing in Free Time: 
In my free time I enjoy spending time with my family – my wife and two daughters. I love watching sports (soccer, football, basketball, MMA). I love playing soccer, exercising, hiking, travel and participating in obstacle or mud runs.

Family: Wife Ann-Marie, Daughters: Maddie and Ella

2009 (U14) Select

Rachel Tabaracci

Years Coaching at RAGE: 

Team(s) Coaching at RAGE: 2009 (U14) Select

Coaching Credentials: 

Coaching Experience:  

Notable Coaching Achievements: 

Playing Experience: 

Favorite Player(s): 

Enjoy About Coaching: 

Enjoy Doing in Free Time: 

Any Other Notable or Fun Facts: 

Family: 

Head Coach 2009 (U14) Grey
Head Coach 2010 (U13) Grey
danielle@pleasantonrage.org

Danielle Deike

Years Coaching at RAGE: 

Team(s) Coaching at RAGE: Head Coach 2009 (U14) Grey; Head Coach 2010 (U13) Grey

Coaching Credentials: 

Coaching Experience:  

Notable Coaching Achievements: 

Playing Experience: 

Favorite Player(s): 

Enjoy About Coaching: 

Enjoy Doing in Free Time: 

Any Other Notable or Fun Facts: 

Family: 

2006 (U17) ECNL-RL
2005/2004 (U19) ECNL-RL
2008 (U15) Select
Phone: (650) 255-3776
luis@pleasantonrage.org

Luis Siu

Years Coaching at RAGE: 12 years

Team(s) Coaching at RAGE: 2006 (U17) ECNL-RL, 2005/2004 (U19) ECNL-RL, 2008 (U15) Select

Coaching Credentials: 
• USC National Diploma
• USSF ‘E’

Coaching Experience: 
• 18 years – Coaching club soccer (U7-U18)
• 8 years – Coaching High School soccer at Dougherty Valley High School San Ramon, CA. (Varsity, JV, Frosh/Soph)
• 4 years – Head of the Women’s Soccer Program at Dougherty Valley High School (San Ramon, CA)

Notable Coaching Achievements: 
• (U14) Champions, 2019 Las Vegas Players College Showcase
• (U14) 2nd Place, 2018-2019 NorCal Premier League – NPL
• (U17) 2nd Place, 2016-17 NorCal State Cup
• (U14) 2nd Place, 2019 NorCal State Cup
• (U14) Champions, 2018 Pleasanton RAGE College Showcase
• (U18) 2nd Place, 2017 Pleasanton RAGE College Showcase 
• (U14) 2nd Place, 2017 Pleasanton RAGE College Showcase 
• 2012 Positive Coaching Alliance Award Recipient

Playing Experience: Saint Mary’s College of California (Club Soccer Team)

Favorite Professional Soccer Player(s): 
Marta, Abby Wambach, Alex Morgan, Megan Rapinoe, Rose Lavelle, Johan Cruyff, Ronaldinho, Juan Pablo Riquelme, Luis Figo, Xavi

Enjoy About Coaching: 
The ability to share the love and passion of the game I have with all players I coach because to me soccer is a passion. It is more than a game, it is a way of life!  Where my family comes from (El Salvador) soccer is life and soccer makes people happy. Since I began playing soccer, it has always been fun. I coach because I want to spread my love for this beautiful game, share my knowledge and wisdom of everything I have learned and experienced as a coach and player. Most importantly I coach because I want to instill that same joy of playing this game that I have whenever I coach or play to make sure that the players understand that if you play with heart and passion, it can only make you that much better of a person and player. I wish to inspire young children to take the lessons of hard work, struggle and perseverance learned on the pitch, out into the real world in order to become successful individuals.

Enjoy Doing in Free Time: 
If I am not on the pitch, you can find me either on the water fishing or with my family at a museum or Disneyland.

Any Other Notable or Fun Facts: 
As much as I obsess over soccer, I am equally if not even more obsessed with bass fishing, I have fished since I was 3 years old and have not looked back. I fish for fun and I fish in bass tournaments too. I LOVE IT!

Family: 
I have been married to my amazing wife Yamiletth for 10 years now and we have two amazing young boys-Adriel (6) and Danilo (4). We also have 3 four legged doggies in all sizes: Small- Duck, Medium- Bruster, Large- Duffy.

7v7 and 9v9 team Goalkeeper Director
2011 (U12) Premier
2005/2004 Select
Phone: (925) 784-5626
marissakalchik@pleasantonrage.org

Marissa Kalchik

Years Coaching at RAGE: 10 years

Team(s) Coaching at RAGE: 7v7 and 9v9 team Goalkeeper Director, 2011 (U12) Premier, 2005/2004 Select

Coaching Credentials: 
• NSCAA Advanced National
• USSF ‘D’

Coaching Experience: 16 years

Playing Experience: San Jose State, Goalkeeper 2005-2007

Favorite Professional Soccer Player(s): Briana Scurry

Enjoy About Coaching: 
I enjoy helping players set goals & reaching them. I love being able to connect with players and help them learn valuable skills (discipline, integrity, resilience, respect) that will help them in all areas of their lives. I also just love soccer – I love playing and watching; I love the creativity players have and the teamwork that they build.

Enjoy Doing in Free Time: 
I love to read, go hiking, going to the beach & of course playing soccer.

Any Other Notable or Fun Facts: 
I love to teach and have been tutoring since 8th grade. I have lived in 3 different states in the last 4 years. I have 5 brothers and sisters.

Family: 
My husband, Mike, also works in sports sales and operations at UOP. I have three kids Mikey (5.5), Matthew (4) & Emily (1).

Director of Coaching
Phone: (970) 683-1121
ErinSharpe@pleasantonrage.org

Erin Sharpe

Years Coaching at RAGE: 2 years

Team(s) Coaching at RAGE: Director of Coaching

Coaching Credentials: 
• USSF ‘A’
• USC Advanced National Diploma
• Franz Hoek Director of Coaching Certificate

Coaching Experience: 
• Over 20 years in club soccer in Coaching and Director roles
• 6 years Head Coach at Colorado Mesa University
• Current NorCal PDP State Coach

Notable Coaching Achievements
Coached multiple ECNL Divisional Conference Championships, USYS National Championship team, various State Cup and other tournament Championships (Coach San Juan SC, 2004-2008; ECNL Director and Coach 2014-2019)
• Co-Founder, Girl’s Director of Coaching and Coach, Colorado West Select Soccer Club (2011-2014)
• NCAA Tournament Selection, 4 Conference Playoff selections and over 80 student-athlete award recipients for athletic and academic achievements at the conference, regional and national levels (Colorado Mesa University 2008-2013) 

Playing Experience:
• Santa Clara University: NCAA National Champions 2001; 2002 National Finalists; 1999 National Semi-Finalist; 2000 National Quarter-Finalist
• Semi-Professional in Switzerland  

Favorite Professional Soccer Player(s): Michelle Akers, Heather O’Reilly, Julie Ertz, Kelley O’Hara, Steven Gerrard, Mo Salah

Enjoy About Coaching: 
I love being a part of a player’s journey as they develop in every facet of the game and in life.  I also love helping players achieve their goals and dreams, whatever they may be.  For those who aspire to play in college or beyond, I am very passionate about assisting them in this process.

Enjoy Doing in Free Time: Playing Pickleball and spending quality time with my Weimalab, family and friends.

Any Other Notable or Fun Facts: 
I am the Chair of the NorCal Women’s Committee and am passionate about improving and promoting all aspects of girl’s and women’s soccer, including increasing and retaining the number of women in leadership positions within the game. 

College Advisory Committee
2007 (U16) ECNL
jonathan@pleasantonrage.org

Jonathan Decker

Years Coaching at RAGE: 3 years

Team(s) Coaching at RAGE: 2007 (U16) ECNL

Coaching Credentials: USSF ‘E’

Coaching Experience: 
• 5 years coaching youth soccer
• 4 Years at California Lutheran University (Division III)
• 1 year at Moorpark Junior College 

Notable Coaching Achievements: 
Club
• 2019 Semi-Finalists Cal South National Cup
• 2020 Quarter-Finalists Cal South National Cup
• 2019 Semi Finalists of Surf Cup
• 2019 Finalist Coast Soccer League Cup
• 3rd Place California Regional League South
College
• 2017 Southern California Intercollegiate Athletic Conference Coaching Staff of the Year
• 2017 SCIAC Conference Champion
• 2017 NCAA Sweet Sixteen
• 2017 Final Poll #19 in the Country
• 2018 #10 in the Country in Goals Against Average (Worked with Backline and Defensive Midfielders
• 4 Straight Conference Tournament Trips
• 19 All Conference Selections, 10 All-Region Selections,United Soccer Coaches All American, 1 United Soccer Coaches Scholar All-Region 1st Team, 1 United Soccer • Coaches Scholar All-Region 1st Team

Playing Experience: 
California State University, Monterey Bay

Favorite Professional Soccer Player(s): 
Abby Wambach, Steven Gerrard, Ronaldo Nazario 

Enjoy About Coaching: 
Sharing my passion, love and everything I learn about the game with youth players and all other soccer enthusiasts.

Enjoy Doing in Free Time: 
Hiking, Surfing, Camping

Any Other Notable or Fun Facts: 
Inducted Eric Wynalda into the National Soccer Hall of Fame when I was 13. Attended the 2006 World Cup in Germany

Family: 
Mother Irene, Father Scott, Brothers Taylor and Andrew

2005/2004 (U19) ECNL
Phone: (707) 332-8995
mike@pleasantonrage.org

Mike Herman

Years Coaching at RAGE: 3 years

Team(s) Coaching at RAGE: 2005/2004 (U19) ECNL

Coaching Credentials: 
• USSF ‘A’
• USC Premier Diploma
• USC Advanced National Goalkeeper Diploma

Coaching Experience: 
• 10 years as a College Assistant (9 NCAA Division I, 1 NCAA Division II). 3 years at University of San Francisco, 6 years at the University of Hawaii, 1 Year at San Francisco State University. 
• 3 Years of College Head Coaching at Holy Names University (NCAA Division II, PacWest Conference). 
• Head Coach at many various levels of club soccer, from U-13 through U23 levels.

Notable Coaching Achievements: 
Recognized by the 30 Under 30 Program in 2015 by the United Soccer Coaches (formerly NSCAA). Selected as one of the top 30 coaches under 30 in the nation (15 male / 15 Female). Won the 2015 Presidents Cup National Championship in the U15 age group with my Leahi 02 team.

Playing Experience: Saint Mary’s College and Holy Names University

Favorite Professional Soccer Player(s): Tobin Heath, Steven Gerrard, Virgil Van Dyke

Enjoy About Coaching: 
Working with players to reach levels of soccer that they didn’t realize they were able to get to. Helping them grow and accomplish their goals will always be my favorite part of the game. More personally, trying to solve the problems opponents present and out think the other team is one of my favorite aspects of the game. I love gameplanning.

Enjoy Doing in Free Time: 
Hanging out with my family! Love watching Liverpool games with my two girls (Avery and Elia) and otherwise finding fun outdoor activities for us to do as a family.

Any Other Notable or Fun Facts: 
I was a Goalkeeper but fancy myself as a playmaker 😉 I also speak Spanish (Spanish major in college).

Family: My wife Blair, and two daughters, Avery and Elia.

U16-U19 11v11 AGC
2006 (U17) ECNL
WalterPratte@pleasantonrage.org

Walter Pratte

TECHNICAL STAFF

Years Coaching at RAGE: 16 years

Team(s) Coaching at RAGE: 11v11 (U16-19) AGC, 2006 (U17) ECNL

Coaching Credentials: 
• USSF ‘A’
• USSF ‘Y’

Coaching Experience:
25 years, including Club, High School and WPSL

Notable Coaching Achievements: 
Assisting with placing our players into collegiate programs, including 23 players in our biggest class.

Playing Experience: 
• Real Colimas Colorado League, Team Captain; 2000 League Champions/1998-2001
• Puebla Denver Latin League, Team Captain 1995, 1996, 1997; League Champions/1
• Guadalajara Colorado Division 1/1993-1995
• Club Buenaventura Semi-Professional Team Paraguay, Striker 1990-1991; League Champions/1990-1991

Favorite Professional Soccer Player(s): 
Alex Morgan and Leo Messi

Enjoy About Coaching: 
I want kids to learn a sport that will not only make them a good athlete but will make them a good leader on and off the field. I believe soccer gives the opportunity to help build character, discipline, commitment, and the responsibility that an athlete can carry throughout their life. When working with the youth, it is about the ability we have as coaches and parents within a community to bring out the highest playing potential, and in doing so, they become one step closer to achieving their own dreams and aspirations. I love connecting with the needs of youth soccer players of today.

Enjoy Doing in Free Time: 
I believe every girl has a voice that can change the world, starting with her own. The most impactful way to create change and break the cycle of poverty within any community is to EMPOWER and EDUCATE girls, and that is what I have set out to do. One community, one girl at a time! My goals are centered around empowering the next generation of female student-athletes to rise up, make a difference, and become strong leaders in their own communities. I accomplish this through my work with Girls Soccer Worldwide.

Any Other Notable or Fun Facts: 
I was in the Argentina Army.

2010-2008 (11v11 Stage 1) AGC
2009 (U14) ECNL
alena@pleasantonrage.org

Alena Thom

TECHNICAL STAFF

Years Coaching at RAGE: 3 years

Team(s) Coaching at RAGE: 2009 (U14) ECNL

Coaching Credentials:
• USSF ‘C’
• USC Advanced National Diploma

Coaching Experience: 
• Youth Level 14 years
• College: 4 seasons: 2 seasons at NCAA  DI level and 2 season at Community College level
• Current NorCal Region 3/4 and State PDP Coach

Playing Experience: 
• Semi-Professionally and Professionally in the USA (Various WPSL and W-League teams across the States)
• Two different clubs in Swedish Norettan
• 1st Division Bundesliga in Germany
• Wake Forest University

Favorite Professional Soccer Player(s): Kristine Lilly, Tiffeny Milbrett, Philip Lamb

Enjoy About Coaching: 
I have always enjoyed being part of a team and as a coach, that is still an aspect I love! When you are working for something more than yourself, I believe you can become more than you thought possible and a team environment helps provide that. Contributing to development is also extremely rewarding. Most people don’t see the amount of work that goes into getting from point A to B. Being part of the day-to-day effort, overcoming obstacles, celebrating the successes, and ultimately helping guide players to their potential is another special part of coaching I enjoy.

Enjoy Doing in Free Time: 
Mountain biking and other outdoor adventures, seeking out new experiences and DIY projects.

Any Other Notable or Fun Facts: I tend to read magazines from back to front.