excel soccer academy COACHES

With 25 years of coaching experience in Phoenix, Coach Stryker Aguilar has become a leading figure in Arizona’s soccer community. His coaching journey began after a successful playing career in which he represented top local teams including Cisco Kickers, Paradise Valley Shamrocks, Santos FC 76, and Cisco Xcel.

He continued his playing career at the collegiate level with Phoenix College and later professionally with the Arizona Saguaros in the USISL.

Coaching Career & Philosophy:
Coach Stryker started his coaching career as a head coach and trainer at Santos FC, under the guidance of Coach Luis Dabo, where he spent five years developing his coaching philosophy and skill set. In 2012, he founded Excel Soccer Academy, where he has since built a reputation for developing top-tier talent across both boys’ and girls’ programs.

Player Development & Success:
Over the years, Coach Stryker has coached state championship teams and developed numerous male and female players who have gone on to play at high levels, including NCAA Division 1, 2, and 3, NAIA, and NJCAA programs. Two of his female players are currently part of the Mexico U17 National Team, showcasing his ability to develop top international talent.

He has played a key role in providing professional soccer opportunities in South America for Arizona players, becoming a gateway for those looking to take their careers to the next level in international leagues.

Coaching Philosophy & Approach:
Coach Stryker combines rigorous technical training with a focus on leadership, discipline, and mental toughness. His coaching not only aims to develop soccer skills but also emphasizes personal growth, teamwork, and resilience, ensuring that players are well-prepared for success in all aspects of life.

Key Achievements:
Coached state championship teams and mentored athletes who have reached collegiate and professional levels.

Pioneered pathways for Arizona players to enter professional clubs in South America, opening doors to global soccer opportunities.
Built a legacy of excellence and mentorship, with former players continuing to excel at national and international levels.

Coach Stryker continues to shape the future of Arizona soccer by empowering players to reach their full potential both on the field and in life.

Coach Corbett Hess brings a wealth of experience to his role as the Boys Technical Director at Excel Soccer Academy. With a coaching career spanning over two decades, he has successfully guided teams to state and regional championships and developed numerous players who have gone on to compete at all levels of college soccer and in professional leagues.

Starting his coaching journey under the mentorship of Luis Dabo, Coach Corbett spent nine years working alongside one of Arizona’s most respected soccer figures, learning invaluable lessons in player development and team building.

His focus at Excel Soccer Academy is on nurturing individual skills, encouraging creativity, and emphasizing character development—while building a strong team-oriented environment designed for success.

Coach Corbett has an extensive international network and has led Excel teams to Barcelona, offering players unique opportunities to train and compete at a world-class level. His global connections continue to open doors for players, providing exposure and pathways to opportunities in Europe and beyond.

In addition to his coaching expertise, Coach Corbett holds a Bachelor of Arts in Psychology from Arizona State University and a Master of Business Administration (MBA) from the University of Phoenix, blending his academic background with a deep passion for soccer and player development.

As the Youth Director of Excel Soccer Academy, Coach Randy Watkins is passionate about fostering the growth of Excel Soccer Academy’s vibrant soccer community in Central Phoenix. Over the past decade, he has been privileged to witness the unwavering commitment of ESA’s players, coaches, and parents, all contributing to the academy’s success and development.

Coach Randy brings extensive coaching experience at both the club and high school levels, with a career marked by multiple state championships in high school, club, and middle school competitions. These accomplishments have been made possible by the exceptional players he’s had the honor to coach and mentor.

In addition to Coach Randy’s soccer career, he has more than 30 years of experience as an educator and school administrator. These roles have provided him with invaluable leadership skills, which he now applies on the soccer field to inspire and guide young athletes.

Currently, Coach Randy serves as the Head Coach at Verrado High School, is an Adjunct Instructor at Grand Canyon University, and an EOS Auditor.

His journey in soccer began as a player, where he was fortunate to compete alongside some remarkable teammates at the club and high school levels. These formative experiences earned Coach Randy the opportunity to play collegiate soccer at Grand Canyon University, further deepening his passion for the game.

He is excited to continue building a strong foundation for the next generation of players and contributing to the ongoing success of Excel Soccer Academy.

Coach Manuel Cardenas is entering his second year with Excel Soccer Academy, bringing energy, experience, and a deep commitment to player development. A proud Cortez High School alumnus, he began his coaching journey at his alma mater after a brief playing career, quickly realizing his true calling was on the sideline.

Over the past seven years at Cortez, Coach Manuel has played an instrumental role in the program’s success, helping guide the team to four regional championships while mentoring student-athletes to excel both on and off the field.

At Excel Soccer Academy, he continues to share his passion for teaching the game, focusing on helping young players develop their technical skills, tactical understanding, and confidence.

Coach Manuel’s goal is to build well-rounded athletes who approach every challenge with discipline, teamwork, and a love for the game.

Coach Max Pasillas is a dedicated coach with a passion for player development. A Phoenix native, he began his soccer journey at the age of 11 and quickly advanced through the competitive ranks.

Coach Max played varsity soccer at Maryvale High School before continuing his playing career at South Mountain Community College.

With more than 14 years of coaching experience alongside Coach Stryker, Coach Max has worked in various settings, including team coaching, small group sessions, and personalized training. This has helped him hone a coaching philosophy that focuses on technical growth, tactical awareness, and individual development within a team-oriented environment.

Coach Max is also a proud father of two children, both of whom played at Excel Soccer Academy, further deepening his commitment to fostering a positive soccer culture both on and off the field.

Coach Carmen Esnal is a highly accomplished goalkeeper coach and educator with over a decade of experience developing athletes across the collegiate, high school, and youth levels. Known for her detail-oriented coaching style and holistic approach to player development, she has helped produce championship-caliber programs throughout Arizona. 

Collegiate Coaching Career:
Since 2018, Coach Carmen has served as the Goalkeeper Coach at Phoenix College, contributing to one of the most successful eras in the program’s history. During her tenure, Phoenix College has achieved:
• 2 ACCAC Championships (2019, 2025)
• 4 NJCAA Region Championships (2021, 2022, 2023, 2025)
• 4 NJCAA District Championships (2021, 2022, 2023, 2025)
• 6 NJCAA National Tournament Appearances
• 2023 NJCAA Men’s Soccer Division II National Runner-Up
• 2025 NJCAA Men’s Soccer Division II National Champion

Her leadership and goalkeeper development have been central to the program’s sustained competitive success.

High School Coaching Career:
At the high school level, Coach Carmen has been part of Millennium High School’s coaching staff since 2018.
• 2018–2022: Assistant Coach & Goalkeeper Coach, Girls Varsity – including a 2019 5A Conference State Runner-Up finish.
• 2022–2025: Head Coach, Boys Varsity – guiding competitive, disciplined teams and advancing overall program development.

Olympic Development Program & Youth Coaching:
Since 2018, Coach Carmen has served as a Goalkeeper Coach for the Arizona Soccer Association Olympic Development Program, contributing to:
• 6 Far West Regional Championship appearances
• Recognition as the 2023 ASA Competitive Female Coach of the Year

At the youth club level, she has coached goalkeepers since 2012, developing players who have gone on to win:
• 2 State Championships
• 2 Regional Appearances

Education & Credentials:
Coach Carmen is also a dedicated educator, earning a Bachelor of Science in Education (2013) and a Master of Business Administration (2015). Her excellence in teaching was recognized when she was named Teacher of the Year in 2022.

She holds a U.S. Soccer D License (2024) and integrates modern training methodologies, leadership development, and a holistic approach to athlete growth into every program she leads.

With a proven track record of competitive success, goalkeeper development, and player mentorship, Coach Carmen continues to shape the next generation of confident, resilient, and high-performing goalkeepers and players at Excel Soccer Academy.

Coach Ron Sherron grew up playing multiple sports competitively in the north Phoenix area. He played club soccer with the Paradise Valley Shamrocks and the Sereno Golden Eagles.

Coach Ron was also a four-sport athlete at North Canyon High School in north Phoenix. He went on to play college football on scholarship.

Since then Coach Ron has mentored and coached several Valley high school athletes in soccer to obtain college scholarships. He currently has a son playing for ESA.

BIO COMING SOON

Coach Cory Nelson grew up in Phoenix and within the Phoenix soccer community in the Paradise Valley Soccer Club. He met ESA’s Director, Stryker Aguilar, and played together with him in high school. 
 
Coach Cory started coaching in 2015 at the youngest age levels, and has worked since then at the 4v4, 7v7, and 9v9 age groups.

He enjoys the development of young players and working hard to focus on technical skill and confidence with the ball while building a love for the game in a fun and competitive atmosphere. Coach Cory has been a part of the ESA staff since 2021.

Coach Diego Aguilar is the only coach on staff who has gone through Excel Soccer Academy’s system from beginning to end.

He has played at the highest level of club soccer for 14 years. Coach Diego began playing at the age of 4 with Santos FC all the way until the age of 9 when Excel Soccer Academy launched.

He has experience in the top leagues across Arizona, as well as playing in regional leagues. 

Before taking on the head coaching role for the 2013/2014 Boys teams, Coach Diego was an assistant coach for ESA’s U16 Boys. He has also been doing personal training for players alongside Coach Stryker. 

Phoenix native Coach Marco Aguilar discovered his passion for soccer at a young age and has been dedicated to the sport ever since. His journey began as a player with Santos F.C. and continued at Excel Soccer Academy, where his love for the game deepened and shaped his coaching philosophy.

As a coach, Marco brings a unique perspective, having experienced the system firsthand as both a player and mentor. He is passionate about fostering a positive and supportive environment where players can thrive both on and off the field.

Known for his ability to connect with players and inspire a love for the game, Coach Marco is a valued member of the Excel Soccer Academy coaching staff.

Committed to continuous learning, Coach Marco is currently pursuing his coaching licenses to stay at the forefront of modern soccer development. He takes pride in being part of a program that emphasizes community, culture, and player growth, and he strives to inspire the next generation of athletes to reach their full potential.

Now entering his third year with Excel Soccer Academy, Coach Sergio Campos leads the 2012B and 2013B NL P1 teams with passion, purpose, and a clear focus on player development. Known for his energetic and positive coaching style, he strives to create a competitive environment where players are challenged to grow every day, both on and off the field.

Coaching Career & Philosophy:
Coach Sergio is currently pursuing his U.S. Soccer C License as he continues to expand his coaching knowledge and leadership skills. His philosophy emphasizes developing complete players that are technically sharp, tactically intelligent, and mentally resilient, while also building character, accountability, and teamwork. He believes in shaping not just great soccer players, but great people, and inspires his athletes to embrace the process of improvement with discipline and passion.

Playing Career:
Before beginning his coaching journey, Coach Sergio enjoyed a successful playing career in Arizona. He competed locally for Cisco Soccer Club and Phoenix Tuzos, earning recognition as a two-time State Cup finalist and one-time semifinalist. At the collegiate level, he played for Phoenix College during the 2012–2013 season.

Following his college career, Coach Sergio continued playing at the semi-professional level. He spent one season with Digitlog FC in the Professional Arena Soccer League (PASL), where his team captured the 2017 National Championship. He also competed with the Phoenix Falcons in the Major League Futsal (MLF), helping them win the U.S. Open Futsal Championship.

Coach Sergio remains deeply committed to player development and to Excel Soccer Academy’s mission of building strong, confident athletes prepared to succeed in soccer and in life.

BIO COMING SOON

Coach Justin Summers began his soccer journey at the age of 5 in his home state of Texas.

Over the next 14 years, he played at a high level with prominent travel clubs in Las Cruces and Phoenix, and competed for Deer Valley High School, earning four years of varsity experience.

Coach Justin attended Arizona State University, continuing his competitive soccer involvement in local leagues. It was during this time that he discovered his passion for coaching, taking on coach/player duties and quickly recognizing the rewarding challenges of developing players.

Coach Justin has worked with players of all ages and skill levels, in both team and private training settings. He is the Head Coach of the U19 and U15 ESA Girls teams, Head Coach of the Cactus High School Boys Varsity program and led the Alhambra High School Girls Soccer program where he successfully graduated 25 seniors over five years, with 20 players receiving collegiate offers. He is also currently an Assistant Coach and Recruiter for Cochise College.

Coach Jeremy began his soccer journey at the age of 7 with Santos FC under the guidance of Coach Luis Dabo. He spent eight years developing his skills at Santos before joining Sereno Soccer Club, where he achieved remarkable success. During his time at Sereno, Coach Jeremy won two state championships, a regional championship, and helped his team achieve a #2 national ranking.

Originally born in Idaho, Coach Jeremy grew up in Tolleson, Arizona, where he excelled as a varsity soccer player at Tolleson Union High School for all four years. He was recognized as one of the top players in Arizona for both high school and club soccer, earning First Team All-State honors each year of his high school career.

Coach Jeremy joined Excel Soccer Academy in 2023 with a passion for sharing his extensive knowledge and experience with young athletes. His goal is to help players reach their collegiate aspirations and compete at the highest levels of the sport.

 

BIO COMING SOON

Coach Alexis Murrieta is a proud product of the Arizona soccer community. Born and raised in Phoenix, he has been immersed in the state’s soccer culture for over 20 years. As a player, he competed at the highest levels with Sereno Soccer Club, earning an impressive list of accomplishments that includes six Arizona State Championships, a Region IV Championship, two Regional League titles, and a USYS National Finalist appearance in 2009.

Playing & Educational Background:
Coach Alexis was identified through the Sueño Alianza program, where he was scouted by professional coaches from Mexico. In high school, he was a four-year varsity standout at Trevor Browne High School, later becoming a two-year starter at Glendale Community College. He continued his education at Arizona State University, earning a bachelor’s degree in education.

Coaching Career & Philosophy:
In addition to his coaching role with Excel Soccer Academy, Coach Alexis serves as a Physical Education teacher at an elementary school in West Phoenix reflecting his deep commitment to youth development both in the classroom and on the field. Before joining Excel, he worked extensively with both boys’ and girls’ programs, focusing on technical development and tactical awareness. His dedication has led to notable success, including guiding his school team to a junior high championship and his Excel 2008 team to a state title.

Coach Alexis’s mission is to build champions not only in soccer, but in life. He is passionate about helping players reach their full potential on the field, in the classroom, and beyond while creating opportunities that pave the way to college and future success.

Coach Noe Ancira has been immersed in competitive soccer since the age of six, showcasing his talent and dedication throughout his youth career. 

He played for prominent clubs such as Cisco, Tuzos, and Sereno, before continuing his soccer journey at the collegiate level with Phoenix College.

In addition to his playing experience, Coach Noe is now shaping the next generation of players as a coach at Verrado High School. His passion for the game and commitment to player development make him a valued member of the Excel Soccer Academy team.

BIO COMING SOON

Coach Gio Ocampo brings over a decade of specialized goalkeeper coaching experience to Excel Soccer Academy. A lifelong student of the game, his passion for the position took shape during his time at Tempe High School, where he quickly distinguished himself as one of the program’s top keepers. As a senior in 2007, he recorded eight shutouts and posted an impressive 14-1-2 overall record, establishing a school record for shutouts and earning regional recognition.

After high school, Coach Gio continued his playing career at South Mountain Community College (2008–2010) before transferring to Lindenwood University (2010–2012). Competing at the collegiate level helped him refine his technical understanding of the position and deepen his passion for coaching. His coaching career began in 2010 through individual and small-group goalkeeper training laying the foundation for what is now more than ten years of coaching experience.

Coaching Career & Philosophy:
Coach Gio is dedicated to developing confident, technically disciplined, and mentally resilient goalkeepers. He emphasizes repetition, detail, decision-making, and leadership qualities that define successful keepers at the highest levels. His mission is to build goalkeepers who command their box, understand the game, and perform with consistency under pressure.

Professional Coaching Experience:
• Assistant Coach, AZGK Performance (2018–Present)
• Assistant Coach, Phoenix College (2021–Present)
• Assistant Coach, Excel Soccer Academy (2021–Present)
• Assistant Coach, Paris Saint-Germain Academy (2022–Present)
• Head Goalkeeper Coach, Roadrunners (2018–2020)

Playing Achievements:
• Alliance Invitational Tournament Champion (2007)
• High School Player of the Week
• Second Team All-Region
• Two-time NAIA Player of the Week

Coach Gio continues to elevate the next generation of goalkeepers through technical excellence, high standards, and a genuine passion for helping players develop on and off the field.