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
Technical Director
Matteo earned his Bachelor's Degree in Sport and Exercise Science and then attended the University of Roma where he received his Masters Degree in Kinesiology. He holds the UEFA B and UEFA A licenses. He is also a Technical Director and Senior Management Consultant for soccer organizations. Matteo is currently counseling the Juventus Academy of Los Angeles, the Juventus Academy of Toronto and the Fitlight Research Lab.
MANU APPELIUS
Head of Operations - Head Coach
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
Salvador, originally from Brazil, 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- Ordain
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.
DEVIN VAN METER
Head Coach
Devin is a dedicated soccer coach with a strong background in physical education, kinesiology, and youth development. With experience coaching at club and international levels, he is committed to fostering technical growth, player autonomy, and a deep understanding of the game. Devin has worked with Southern California Seahorse, Casa Deportiva Cumbre Alta in Ecuador, and various youth programs across multiple countries. His expertise in athlete development, team dynamics, and performance analysis is complemented by a strong academic foundation, including a Bachelor of Science in Kinesiology and a Master of Arts in Teaching. Recognized for his leadership and contributions to physical education, Devin creates engaging and inclusive training environments that help players excel both on and off the field.
MARIO MOLINA
Head Coach
Football has shaped my life both as a player and a coach. I played at the UPSL level before transitioning to coaching in 2015, working with boys’ and girls’ teams across various age groups. I’m currently the JV head coach and varsity assistant at Brentwood School, focusing on player development and a high-tempo, competitive style of play.
My coaching philosophy emphasizes possession with purpose, quick decision-making, and intelligent movement. I strive to create an environment where players grow on and off the field, developing discipline, teamwork, and resilience. I’m excited to work with this team and help each player reach their potential.
FLAVIO RIBERIO
Head Coach
Flavio Ribeiro is a highly qualified and experienced soccer coach with a Master’s Degree in Soccer from the Federal University of Rio de Janeiro, the highest professional coaching qualification in Brazil. He holds a US Soccer Federation B License and an Advanced National Coaching License (NSCAA). Coach Flavio has worked extensively in youth development, coaching at Geffen Academy at UCLA and Marlborough School in Los Angeles. Fluent in English, Portuguese, and Spanish, he is deeply committed to developing young players both technically and mentally, fostering excellence on and off the field.
JOEL HANKE
Head Coach
Joel Hanke is a highly skilled and experienced soccer coach specializing in youth development, technical training, and talent identification. Serving as a youth development and foundations coach, Joel has worked with Upland High School’s varsity program and LA Galaxy’s youth academy. He possesses extensive expertise in ball mastery, first-touch development, positional awareness, and game-like scenario training. Holding a U.S. Soccer Federation National D License and multiple scouting certifications from the Professional Football Scouts Association (PFSA), Joel integrates talent identification and advanced coaching methodologies to elevate player performance. His ability to design structured training programs, implement professional coaching curricula, and foster a competitive yet supportive environment has made him a key figure in player development.
CHRIS BONAWANDT
Head Coach
Chris holds the USSF C license and the United Soccer Coaches Premier Diploma, in addition to a Masters degree in Sports Management from St. Johns University. A New York native, Chris worked for the New York Red Bulls Academy for 10 years. While in NY Chris was also the Assistant Coach at NCAA Div II Queens College.
During his time in Brasil, Chris also coached at Academy SC International. Here in Los Angeles, Chris coached for 4 years with Real So Cal and Eagles SC, in addition to his role as Varsity Boys Coach at Sierra Canyon HS.
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 highly skilled and experienced soccer coach with a UEFA Grassroots C License from the German Football Association and a US National D Coaching License. A former player in Germany's highest youth league, Attila has a proven track record in coaching U14, U16, and U18 teams, excelling in tactical, technical, and physical training. As Youth Director at CFC Hertha 06 Berlin, he managed over 300 youth players, implemented annual training plans, led acquisitions and transfers, and organized financial support for disadvantaged children. With expertise in team building, recruitment, and performance analysis, Attila brings exceptional communication skills and a holistic approach to player development. Fluent in German, Turkish, and English, he combines his passion for soccer with extensive administrative and coaching experience to foster growth, motivation, and success in the sport.
NICK HYDE
Head Coach
Nick Hyde is a dedicated soccer coach and mentor with nearly a decade of experience developing youth players through engaging, game-like activities. Passionate about making a positive impact, he emphasizes fun, structured play to enhance skill development, motivation, and teamwork. Currently coaching at German Soccer Academy, Nick has also worked as a private trainer and referee, gaining valuable experience in player management, individualized skill training, and game flow control. Holding a U.S. Soccer Federation National D License, along with CPR and First Aid certifications, he combines strong leadership, communication, and technical coaching expertise to create a dynamic and supportive learning environment for aspiring athletes.
THEO LANNOM
Assistant Coach
Coming soon
