Our COACHES
* Coaching PhilosophyAt San Juan Football Club, our coaching philosophy is rooted in long term player development, respect for the game, and a deep commitment to our island community.
We believe soccer is a powerful tool for teaching life skills. Our goal is not only to develop strong players, but confident, resilient young people who understand teamwork, accountability, and pride in representing their club and community.
❋ Player Development FirstWe prioritize development over short term results. Training sessions are designed to build strong technical foundations, game understanding, and decision making. Players are encouraged to take risks, learn from mistakes, and grow at their own pace within a supportive team environment.
Winning matters, but learning matters more.
❋ Positive and Respectful EnvironmentWe are committed to creating a positive environment where players feel supported and challenged. Coaches model respect for teammates, opponents, referees, and the game itself. We expect players to show good sportsmanship and take responsibility for their actions on and off the field.
❋ Age Appropriate CoachingOur coaching approach is tailored to the age and stage of each player. Younger athletes focus on skill development, coordination, and joy in the game. As players progress, training becomes more structured and competitive, emphasizing tactical awareness, fitness, and responsibility to the team.
❋ Community and CollaborationAs an island based club, community matters. We value collaboration with families, other island programs, and our affiliation with Orcas Island FC. Together, we work to expand opportunities for island athletes while maintaining a strong San Juan identity.
❋ Commitment and AccountabilityClub soccer requires commitment. We ask players to show up prepared, focused, and ready to work. In return, coaches provide consistent training, clear communication, and a thoughtful approach to player growth.
❋ Love of the GameAbove all, we want players to enjoy soccer. A love of the game fuels motivation, improvement, and lifelong participation in sport. Our coaches strive to keep training engaging, challenging, and fun.
CHAD MCGEE
Coach Chad brings a strong background in competitive soccer and leadership to the San Juan United U12 Boys Select Team. A four-year varsity player at Snohomish High School a 4A team. 4A State champions in 2000, 2002, 2004. 2nd place 2003. Chad played for Snohomish United where he helped lead his team to multiple championships from 1995-2004. H went on to compete at the national level with the Olympic Development Program (ODP). He continued his career at Northwest University (2005). Now living in Friday Harbor, Chad is passionate about developing young players—emphasizing skill, teamwork, and a lifelong love for the game.
U12 HEAD COACH
Ray Hill
Coach Ray has been coaching soccer for 19 years. His experiences ranges from setting up pick-up leagues in the community to coaching a female Olympic Development Program (ODP) Team to a second place finish in a global tournament, losing to Brazil in penalty kicks. He has played soccer for over 30 years specializing in defensive strategy. He still plays the game today and his number one intention for any competitive level is to ensure that players fall in love with the lifelong sport and community that is soccer.
U12 ASSISTANT COACH
Coach Mark brings nearly four decades of soccer experience and leadership to the San Juan United U10 Boys Select Team. A four-year varsity player and two-year captain at Salpointe Catholic High School in Tucson, Arizona (’94–’98), he led his team to the 1996 state championship and was inducted into the Sports Hall of Fame ('08), and competed at the national level with the Olympic Development Program (ODP). Mark continued his career at the University of Arizona (’98–’02) as a four-year varsity player and two-year captain. Now residing in Friday Harbor, he is dedicated to developing young players with a focus on skill, teamwork, and a lifelong love for the game.
U10 HEAD COACHMark Heckele
Coach Nathan is excited to continue creating more options for youth soccer on the Islands. He played soccer locally for Friday Harbor High School for four years. Played as a United States Sports Ambassador in Australia and New Zealand, competing against teams from all around the world. Briefly played for Evergreen State College. Nathan has coached for five years, with U6, U8, U10 and U12 squads. He is now excited to help grow San Juan FC and continue to sponsor the development of youth sports and the opportunities they can bring.
U10 ASSISTANT COACH