Coaches | Juventus Academy LA

Our Staff

At Juventus Academy Los Angeles, our programs are facilitated by licensed coaches with years of experience on the field. Our coaches aim to help our players improve their technical skills, game sense, and physical abilities. By developing foundational skills, our youth can transfer their success on the pitch into other aspects of their lives.

Matteo Masucci

Academy Director

Matteo holds a Bachelor’s in Sport and Exercise Science and a Master’s in Kinesiology from the University of Roma, he also attended the University of Waterloo PhD in Kinesiology Neuroscience. UEFA A & B licensed coach with FIFA Coaching Diploma, he is the CEO of Edge Americas Sports Inc., Juventus Academy Los Angeles, LA Youth (MLS Next), and ZONE360, an AI-powered coaching software platform.

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West Los Angeles

Manu Appelius

Head of Operations & West LA Director

Manu Appelius holds a USSF B License; the second highest in the United States. He joins us after 12 years as Director at Santa Monica United, and 3 as Director at Real So Cal-SCV. Manu also has a 20-year experience as varsity head coach at the high school level. His focus on development makes him one of the most renowned coaches in the Los Angeles area!

Salvador Filho

Head Coach

Originally from Brazil, he is a seasoned soccer coach with over 20 years of experience in Brazil and California. Holding both USSF A and CBF A licenses, he combines expertise from two rich soccer cultures to develop players' technical skills, tactical understanding, and love for the game. Now based in Los Angeles, Salvador is committed to fostering player growth on and off the field. His coaching style emphasizes teamwork, discipline, and creativity, creating an environment where athletes thrive and reach their full potential.

Ricardo Maxwell- Ordainones

Head Coach

Originally from Costa Rica, Ricardo Maxwell-Ordain has over 20 years of experience working with children as a teacher and soccer coach. His career spans roles at schools such as Brooklyn Friends, Berkeley Carroll, and The Windward School, as well as coaching for clubs including the Long Island Rough Riders, New York Red Bulls, New York Cosmos, and Juventus Academy LA. As a player, Ricardo contributed to Limon FC in Costa Rica and helped the Charlotte Eagles win the 2005 USL Pro National Championship. He holds a Master’s Degree in Exercise Physiology, an “A” Pro International License (ATFA-Argentina/FIFA), and an NSCAA National Youth Diploma.

Santi Bartolome

Head Coach

Born in General Pico, La Pampa, Argentina, Santi is a skilled center midfielder with a rich soccer journey. He began his youth career at Club Sportivo Independiente, General Pico, and United Football Academy before making a mark at Illinois Tech. While earning a business degree, Santi led his college team to the USCAA national championship. His talent and dedication also shone at FC United, competing in the USL. With exceptional ball control, sharp decision-making, and a relentless work ethic, Santi is committed to pushing boundaries on and off the field.

Joey Polizzi

Head Coach

Joey is a passionate soccer coach with over a decade of experience in youth education, coaching, and development. Currently the Head Soccer Coach at Juventus Academy Los Angeles, he leads boys' and girls' teams, focusing on advanced tactics, age-appropriate growth, and fostering a love for the game. With nearly ten years of teaching and coaching at Los Angeles independent schools, Joey excels at creating supportive environments for personal and athletic growth. Certified with a US Soccer D License and Early Childhood Education credentials, he emphasizes confidence, leadership, and teamwork in every player. A Southern California club soccer alumnus, Joey is proud to now guide young athletes in the same system that shaped his own love for the game.

Ati Kalyoncu
Head Coach

Attila Gökay Kalyoncu is a UEFA Grassroots C and US National D licensed coach, former top-level youth player in Germany, and experienced youth director. He has coached U14–U18 teams, managed 300+ players at CFC Hertha 06 Berlin, and excels in tactical training, recruitment, and player development. Fluent in German, Turkish, and English, Attila combines coaching expertise with strong leadership and administrative skills

Alessio Altomare
Head Coach

Originally from Italy, Alessio Altomare brings more than 20 years of experience in soccer and the global sports industry across Europe and the United States. Having played competitive soccer in Italy from youth through the semi-professional level, he combines firsthand playing experience with his background at Nike and other leading sports brands. Alessio is a USSF National C-Licensed coach and has completed coaching education through Barça Innovation Hub and USSF Grassroots programs. He holds a Master’s Degree in Economics and Statistics from La Sapienza University of Rome, adding a strong analytical perspective to his coaching approach. His philosophy focuses on player development, decision-making, creativity, tactical understanding, confidence, and a genuine love for the game. Now based in Los Angeles, Alessio is committed to helping young players reach their full potential on and off the field.