MLS Next Coaches
Meet the MLS Next Academy Coaching Staff!
Welcome to the Chargers Soccer Club MLS Next Academy staff page! Our coaching team is at the heart of what makes this program one of the best in the nation. With a deep passion for the game and years of experience at the highest levels, our staff is dedicated to developing elite players who are ready to succeed on the collegiate, professional, and international stages.
Each coach brings a unique perspective, proven expertise, and a player-first philosophy that sets our academy apart. From technical skill-building to tactical understanding, and from mental preparation to leadership development, our staff works tirelessly to guide every player on their journey.
We are proud to have an exceptional group of coaches who are committed to fostering a positive and challenging environment that helps players unlock their full potential. Get to know the talented individuals who are shaping the next generation of soccer stars right here at Chargers Soccer Club!
Eddie Loewen - Club Sporting Director
Eddie Loewen is the club’s Sporting Director for the MLS NEXT program, marking an exciting step forward in the club’s commitment to elite player development and national competitiveness. In this role, Loewen will oversee all sporting aspects of the Chargers MLS NEXT program and lead the continued growth of one of the region’s premier youth development platforms.
Originally from Germany, Loewen brings a wealth of international experience as a professional player, coach, and talent developer. During his playing career, he competed professionally for DSC Arminia Bielefeld and FC Remscheid in Germany and represented the German Beach Soccer National Team, appearing in the Beach Soccer World Cups in 2001 and 2004. In the United States, he played professionally for the Cincinnati Riverhounds in the A-League (now the USL Championship).
Loewen began his coaching career at the University of Akron (NCAA Division I) as an assistant coach before becoming Head Coach of the German Beach Soccer National Team and later serving as a FIFA and CONCACAF coaching instructor, helping educate coaches across multiple countries.
He holds UEFA A License and USSF B License and remains deeply committed to coach education, guided by his philosophy that better coaches create better players.
As Director of Coaching at Dunedin Stirling Soccer Club, Loewen developed players who advanced to top collegiate programs including Devon Armstrong (Wake Forest, NJIT) and Daniel Lugo (UNC, High Point).
In the professional player pathway space, Loewen is widely recognized for his ability to identify elite talent. As Co-Founder of Global Soccer Development and International Soccer Academy, he has helped American players access professional opportunities abroad. Since 2020, he has helped 270 players secure trials with professional clubs, resulting in 65 professional contracts.
Loewen maintains strong relationships with MLS organizations such as Philadelphia Union and D.C. United, helping players transition from MLS NEXT environments into professional academies, including Gabriel Vasquez (D.C. United & U15 U.S. National Team) and Neo Heyral (Philadelphia Union U18).
Robert Castilho Da Silva
MLS Next Technical Director
Roberto is a highly accomplished soccer coach with a strong foundation in elite youth development and international coaching. Born and raised in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil, where he developed as a player with America FC, he has built a distinguished coaching career across the United States and abroad, combining high-level coaching expertise with a proven track record of player development.
He serves as Assistant Coach for the U.S. Soccer Men’s Deaf National Team, where he helped lead the team to a bronze medal at the 2024 Pan American Deaf Games in Brazil and a fourth-place finish at the 2025 Deaflympics in Tokyo. He previously served as Assistant Coach for the U.S. Virgin Islands Men’s National Team, gaining valuable experience in CONCACAF competition.
Roberto has held key roles at top-tier academies including IMG Academy, D.C. United MLS Academy, and Columbus Crew MLS Academy, where he played a central role in developing elite talent. Over the course of his career, he has developed over 20 players who have gone on to sign with professional clubs and represent national teams.
Known for his sharp eye for talent, Roberto has also worked as a South American scout for Brad Friedel’s Premier Soccer Residential Academies and World Soccer ID, identifying and evaluating high-potential players at the international level.
In addition to his coaching roles, Roberto has contributed to global coach development as Director of the “Coach the Coaches” Program for Future Champions, delivering lectures and workshops at international coaching seminars in South Africa and Brazil. His expertise is further supported by top-level certifications, including a U.S. Soccer Federation (USSF) A Coaching License, a Brazilian Soccer Coaches Association (ABTF) Professional Coaching License, and a Brazilian Football Confederation (CBF) Futsal License.
With a deep understanding of both youth and professional player pathways, Roberto brings a global perspective, technical excellence, and a relentless passion for the game to every environment he serves.
Zac MacMath
GK Director
Zac MacMath is an American former professional goalkeeper whose 15‑year career in Major League Soccer was defined by consistency, leadership, and elite shot‑stopping ability. Born on August 7, 1991, in St. Petersburg, Florida, MacMath rose from a nationally recognized youth prospect to one of MLS’s most respected and enduring goalkeepers. He officially announced his retirement on November 7, 2025.
MacMath’s early years were shaped by both athletic and cultural roots. Raised in a Jewish‑Catholic household, he embraced Judaism and celebrated his Bar Mitzvah at Temple Beth El in his hometown. He attended St. Petersburg High School before moving to the IMG Soccer Academy, where he became a two‑time Parade All‑American and one of the top goalkeeping recruits in the country.
He went on to star at the University of Maryland, serving as the Terrapins’ first‑choice goalkeeper for three seasons. During his collegiate career, he won a national championship, earned multiple individual honors, and completed training stints with English Premier League club Everton. He was twice named to the Jewish Sports Review All‑America Team.
MacMath entered MLS as the No. 5 overall pick in the 2011 MLS SuperDraft, selected by the Philadelphia Union. He made his professional debut later that year and became the club’s starter in 2012. Over the next decade, he built a reputation as a reliable, technically sound, and composed presence between the posts.
His MLS journey included key roles with several clubs:
Philadelphia Union (2011–2015) – Broke into the league as a young starter and completed multiple training stints with Everton.
Colorado Rapids (2015–2018) – Initially joined on loan before being acquired permanently, contributing to one of the league’s strongest defensive units.
Vancouver Whitecaps FC (2019) – Provided veteran depth and leadership.
Real Salt Lake (2020–2025) – Closed his career as a steady, experienced goalkeeper and respected locker‑room presence.
Internationally, MacMath represented the United States at multiple youth levels. He helped lead the U.S. U‑20 National Team to the 2010 Milk Cup title, finishing the tournament unbeaten, and participated in U‑20 World Cup qualifying as well as U‑23 Olympic preparation camps. He also competed in the 2009 Maccabiah Games in Israel.
Across his career, MacMath was known for his professionalism, calm demeanor, and commitment to the craft of goalkeeping. His longevity in MLS and impact on every club he represented reflect a career built on resilience, discipline, and a deep love for the game.
Ryan Seidl
MLS Next Academy – U16 & U19 Coach
With over a decade of coaching experience, Ryan Seidl is a passionate and accomplished soccer coach dedicated to player development, team success, and operational excellence. He currently serves as the Director of Operations and Head Coach at Clearwater Chargers Soccer Club.
Ryan has also made a significant impact at the high school level, currently coaching at Calvary Christian High School, where he has guided the team to two state tournament appearances, a regional championship appearance, and a district title in just three seasons. His previous roles include Assistant Coach at Clearwater Central Catholic High School and Head Coach at Clearwater High School, showcasing his ability to build and sustain competitive programs.
His expertise extends to the professional level, having served as an Assistant Coach for Rowdies 2, the reserve team of the Tampa Bay Rowdies. Additionally, he honed his skills in team operations, scouting, and recruiting during his tenure as a Volunteer Assistant Coach at Penn State University.
Ryan’s playing career spans over a decade, including time with Clearwater Chargers Soccer Club and Clearwater Central Catholic High School, where he was a two-year
captain, All-County selection, and team MVP. His deep understanding of the game is reinforced by his US Soccer National “B” Coaching License.
Beyond coaching, Ryan is committed to community service and global outreach, leading soccer camps and tournaments in El Salvador and Uganda to spread the game’s impact worldwide.
A graduate of the University of Florida (B.S. in Business Administration) and the University of Tampa (M.B.A.), Ryan combines strategic leadership with soccer expertise, making him an invaluable asset to any team or organization. His dedication, tactical knowledge, and ability to inspire players set him apart as a leader in soccer coaching and operations.
Travis Ward
U17 & U14 Coach
Travis Ward is an American soccer coach and former professional defender whose playing career spanned USL League One and the National Independent Soccer Association. Born on May 9, 1996, Ward grew up in the New Egypt community of Plumsted Township, New Jersey, where he developed a deep connection to the game. He starred at New Egypt High School before continuing his career at Rowan University, establishing himself as a versatile, intelligent, and hard‑working player.
Ward began his professional journey in 2019 after earning a contract with Greenville Triumph SC through an open tryout ahead of the club’s inaugural USL League One season. He made his professional debut in the league’s first-ever match and quickly became known for his competitiveness and composure. Ward scored his first professional goal on May 11, 2019, securing a 1–1 draw against Lansing Ignite.
In 2020, Ward joined Michigan Stars FC for the club’s first season in NISA, where he made history by scoring the organization’s first professional goal. He continued his career in 2021 with Stumptown AC, bringing leadership, consistency, and a strong defensive presence to the squad.
As a coach, Ward draws on the resilience, adaptability, and tactical understanding he developed throughout his playing career. His coaching philosophy emphasizes technical excellence, intelligent decision‑making, and a team‑first mentality. Ward is committed to developing players who compete with confidence, understand the game at a high level, and carry themselves with professionalism on and off the field.
Olle Brorsson
U15 Head Coach
Olle is a distinguished defender who combines a high-level European playing background with an elite collegiate career in the United States. His defensive expertise and leadership on the field have earned him recognition as one of the top defensive prospects in collegiate soccer.
Coaching Experience
Olle has been actively involved in developing young talent through his work in the New Jersey soccer community:
SST Academy (New Jersey): Served as a coach at this premier training academy, focusing on technical development and professional-level training for youth players.
Education: Olle is committed to his professional advancement as a coach and is currently on track to obtain his USSF C License this summer.
Collegiate Playing Career
Olle’s collegiate career is marked by consistent excellence and leadership across two top-tier programs:
Monmouth University (3 Years): A cornerstone of the Hawks’ defense, Olle started every match in his final seasons and was a key member of a unit that recorded eight shutouts in 2024.
Coastal Carolina University (1 Year): Began his U.S. career as a freshman, appearing in 12 matches as a midfielder before transitioning to a primary defensive role at Monmouth.
Professional & International Background
Before coming to the United States, Olle developed his game in the elite youth systems of Sweden:
Örebro SK: Competed at the highest tier of Swedish soccer within the club’s prestigious youth academy.
Future Cup Champion: Won the Future Cup while playing for the Örebro SK U19 squad.
Awards & Honors
Olle has been frequently recognized as one of the standout defenders in NCAA Division I soccer:
First Team All-CAA (2024)
USC Top Defenders / “Players to Watch” List (2024)
United Soccer Coaches (USC) All-Atlantic Region Honors (2023)
Third Team All-CAA (2023)
Aiden Jensen
U13 Coach
Aiden brings a wealth of international experience and a high-level playing background to our coaching staff. Having coached and played across Germany, Spain, Portugal, and the United States, he offers a unique, global perspective on player development and tactical discipline.
Coaching Experience
Aiden has spent the last three years honing his craft as an assistant coach, working with a diverse range of age groups and competitive levels:
FSV Ochtrup (Germany): U17 Assistant Coach
FL Celtic: U12 Pre-ECNL RL and U17 Boys Assistant Coach
Global Soccer Development: Assistant Coach for U12, U16, and U19 programs during international tours in Spain and Germany.
Playing Background
His coaching philosophy is deeply informed by his time as a player in elite youth environments. Aiden’s journey through the youth divisions in the U.S. and Portugal led to high-stakes opportunities, including:
SC Farense (Portugal): Played for the U19 Academy in the Portuguese First Division.
Trials & Academies: Invited to trial with FC Kaiserslautern (U16 Youth Bundesliga) and the Colorado Rapids (MLS Youth Academy).
Education & Licensing
Aiden is committed to continuous professional growth and currently holds several prestigious international coaching credentials:
UEFA C License
USSF D License
In Progress: UEFA B and USSF C (Expected 2026)
Oscar Pisano
MLS Pre Academy Director & U12 Head Coach
Albert is a highly decorated soccer professional with over 30 years of experience as both an elite player and a championship-winning coach. Holding the prestigious USSF A License, he is recognized for his defensive expertise, tactical leadership, and a proven ability to develop talent across high school, collegiate, and professional levels.
Coaching Experience and Titles
Albert’s coaching career is defined by a consistent history of championship success in both professional and youth development environments:
Major League Soccer (MLS): Served as an Assistant Coach for the Columbus Crew (winning the US Open Cup) and the Dallas Burn, consistently leading teams into the playoffs.
IMG Academy: Spent a decade as Head Coach, notably leading the Super 20 team to a league championship and securing the first US State Championship in the academy’s history.
Youth & Premier Clubs: Recently served as Head Coach for FC Sarasota, winning the WPFL Premier Championship, and previously led ASG Football Club in Dallas.
Professional Playing Background
Before transitioning to coaching, Albert enjoyed an extensive professional playing career as a premier defender in both indoor and outdoor leagues:
International: Represented the Argentina Indoor National Team, notably playing alongside Diego Maradonain the 1994 and 1995 Indoor World Cups.
Indoor Career: A multi-time All-Star and Champion with teams such as the Canton Invaders, Las Vegas Dustdevils, Buffalo Stallions, and Cleveland Force.
Outdoor Career: Played in the NASL and ASL for clubs including the Memphis Rogues, Cleveland Cobras, Rochester Flash, and Toronto Italia (Canadian League Champion).
Awards & Honors
Throughout his career, Albert has been frequently recognized for his individual excellence on the field:
Defender of the Year: Multiple honors from the Buffalo Stallions, Canton Invaders, and the American Indoor Soccer Association.
All-Star Selection: Named an American Indoor Soccer Association All-Star from 1988–1990.
Dalibor (Dado) Ignjatic
U11 & U12 Pre MLS Next Head Coach
Dado began his coaching career in 2016 with the Clearwater Chargers Soccer Club, where he served as an assistant coach. Since then, he has gained extensive experience working with a wide range of age groups, from U11 through U19. He currently applies his expertise to coaching our U13 and U14 teams within the elite MLS NEXT program.
Education & Certification
Dado holds a strong academic and professional foundation in the sport, having completed a two-year higher education program in sports coaching with a specific specialization in soccer. This comprehensive training included both rigorous academic coursework and professional certification.
Professional Playing Career
His coaching is deeply informed by a nine-year professional playing career that began at the age of 17:
- FK Sarajevo: Signed his first professional contract with one of the top clubs in Bosnia and Herzegovina.
- European Leagues: Competed in the Yugoslav and Serbian leagues for prestigious clubs, including FK Sarajevo, FK Beograd, FK Jagodina, and FK Obilić.
- U.S. Professional Experience: Played indoor soccer for the Baltimore Spirit and trained with the Tampa Bay Mutiny (MLS), where he was offered a pre-contract before the club ceased operations.
International & Youth Development
Dado was developed in one of the region’s leading youth systems, progressing from U8 through U17 in the FK Sarajevoacademy. His standout talent led to him representing the Bosnia and Herzegovina National Teams at the U15, U16, and U17 levels.
Franky De Jesus Marinez
U9 & U10 Academy Head Coch
Franky Martinez is a former professional soccer player with experience at both the collegiate and professional levels. A native of New York City, he played collegiately at UMass Lowell, where he developed a strong foundation within the U.S. soccer development system. Martinez now brings that high-level playing experience into his coaching, with a focus on player development, competitive environments, and long-term athlete growth.
Coaching Experience
Martinez recently served as an Assistant Coach with Kean University’s men’s soccer program, where he played a key role in match analysis, training sessions, and recruiting efforts. He has also worked extensively at the youth level with Clover Elite FC, coaching U9 and U10 boys teams and helping build foundational technical skills and game understanding.
Coaching Education
He holds a U.S. Soccer Grassroots License and is committed to continuing his coaching education through the U.S. Soccer pathway, consistently seeking opportunities to grow and refine his approach.
Playing Career
In 2019, Martinez was selected in the third round (69th overall) of the MLS SuperDraft by Sporting Kansas City. He went on to play professionally with clubs including Chattanooga FC and Lexington SC, gaining valuable experience in high-performance environments that now informs his coaching philosophy.
Jarred Gabbidon
Athletic Performance Coach
Bio coming soon…
Marc Zimmermann
Head of Athletic Performance
Marc Zimmermann is a former professional soccer player and experienced coach with over 20 years in the game. Born and raised in Germany, Marc developed through the youth academy system of Eintracht Frankfurt before signing his first professional contract with Mainz 05. He later played for Darmstadt 98 and continued competing at a high level before transitioning into coaching.
Marc holds a Bachelor’s degree in Exercise Science and Business, combining academic knowledge with real-world experience to develop high-performing athletes.
His coaching background includes a wide range of levels, from youth to collegiate and semi-professional. From 2015 to 2016, Marc coached the men’s soccer team at Hawaii Pacific University. From 2018 to 2020, he coached LA10 FC, a UPSL team in Los Angeles owned by World Cup champion Alessandro Del Piero.
Marc is currently the Head Coach of the varsity boys’ soccer team at Bradenton Christian School and works with athletes of all levels to improve their performance on and off the field.
While Marc’s formal certifications are in performance training, including his NASM Performance Enhancement Specialist (PES) certification, his coaching philosophy is heavily influenced by the German soccer development system, combining technical excellence, tactical awareness, and high-level fitness.
Marc’s professional playing background and extensive coaching experience allow him to bring a unique, high-performance approach to every athlete he works with.