✅Background Check

✅US Club Soccer Safe Sport Certification Meet Coach Matt, a dedicated member of the Gala FC coaching staff who helps support some of our youngest players as they begin their soccer journey. Known on the field as Matt or Coach Matt, he assists Coach Jeff with the 2017–2018 team and helps run the Gala FC Micro Program for our youngest players born in 2019 and later. His focus is on creating a fun and encouraging environment where players can learn the fundamentals of the game and develop a love for soccer from the very beginning.

Coach Matt joined Gala FC in the spring of 2025 and quickly became an enthusiastic supporter of the club’s youth development. A loyal fan of the Seattle Sounders, he admires Sounders goalkeeper Stefan Frei among active players and legendary goalkeeper Gianluigi Buffon as one of his all-time favorites. His favorite jersey number is 42.

One of Coach Matt’s proudest coaching memories dates back to 2010, when he coached a U12 team alongside his dad. After starting the season 0–5, the team rallied together and finished the season 5–5—an experience that taught him the importance of perseverance, teamwork, and continuous improvement.

If he could witness any match live, Coach Matt would choose the legendary Superclásico between Boca Juniors and River Plate at La Bombonera, one of the most passionate environments in world soccer.

For Coach Matt, soccer is his favorite escape from the demands of everyday life—whether he is watching, playing, coaching, or refereeing. The game gives him the opportunity to stay connected to the sport he loves while helping others discover it.

When training days are cold and rainy, Coach Matt reminds himself that those conditions often bring out the most dedicated players. Anyone willing to train in tough weather is showing their commitment to learning and improving.

According to Coach Matt, the key traits of a successful soccer player include attention to detail, being proactive on the field, and strong communication with teammates. At Gala FC, he is excited to help young players build these habits while developing confidence and a lifelong love for the game.