Born and raised in Melbourne, Florida, Coach Doug has dedicated much of his life to the game of soccer—as a player, coach, and mentor. His journey through the sport reflects a passion for player development and a commitment to fostering both athletic and personal growth in young athletes.

Doug began playing soccer at the age of 5, competing for local clubs before moving on to competitive club and high school soccer. As a player, he joined West Shore Jr./Sr. High School’s Junior Varsity boys’ soccer team in 7th grade and Varsity in 10th grade. During Doug’s senior year, West Shore won its first state championship in soccer history—and in any sport.

After high school, Doug dedicated his focus to academics, graduating from the University of Florida with a degree in Applied Physiology and Kinesiology, specializing in Exercise Science. He later pursued a Doctorate in Physical Therapy at Emory University (a top 3 physical therapy program at the time). As a physical therapist and strength and conditioning coach, Doug has worked in a variety of roles in a range of organizations and environments, including the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, FC Cincinnati, Los Angeles Football Club (LAFC), and P3. He has worked with high school athletes, collegiate athletes, professional athletes, Olympic athletes, Paralympic athletes and celebrities.

Transitioning into coaching soccer, Doug’s passion shifted from playing to teaching. He began coaching recreational and academy players at Space Coast United Soccer Club in Melbourne, Florida, focusing on creating a positive and challenging environment for players to thrive. Since then, he has coached at various levels, including academy players at Atlanta Fire United (GA) and high school soccer at Decatur High School (GA), helping athletes develop technical skills, tactical understanding, and mental toughness.

Currently, Coach Doug serves as Head Coach at LA Bulls, working with the 2011 Boys MLS Next 2 team. His coaching philosophy centers on player-first development—emphasizing discipline, organization, creativity and teamwork both on and off the field.

In addition to his club responsibilities, Coach Doug holds a USSF “C” License and plans to complete his USSF “B” License by the end of 2025. He has also completed specialized training and is an NSCA Certified Strength and Conditioning Specialist (CSCS) and a Board-Certified Sports Clinical Specialist (SCS) in Physical Therapy. He continually seeks to grow as a coach.

Beyond coaching, Doug believes deeply in soccer’s power to build character, teach resilience, and unite communities. His goal is to help every player reach their potential, love the game, and grow as both athletes and individuals.

Current Coaching Positions:

• Head Coach of 2011 Boys MLS Next 2 team

Former Coaching Experience:

• Head Coach of 2010 (U12) Academy Team - Atlanta Fire United (2021-2022)
• Boys' Volunteer Varsity Coach - Decatur High School (2019-2021)
• Academy Soccer Trainer and Head Coach - Space Coast United (2017-2018)
• Head Coach for U7-U8, and U9-U10 Recreational Program
• Soccer Trainer for U5-U12 Recreational Program
• Academy Assistant Coach for U10 Academy team

Former Playing Experience:

• West Shore Jr./Sr. High School Boys' Soccer Team
• FHSAA Boys Soccer State Champions - 2012 (2A)
• Space Coast United Soccer Club

Education & Licenses:

• B.S. in Applied Physiology and Kinesiology - Exercise Science at the University of Florida
• Doctor of Physical Therapy (DPT) at Emory University
• USSF "B" License (pending completion - 2025)
• NSCA's Certified Strength and Conditioning Specialist (CSCS)
• Board-Certified Sports Clinical Specialist (SCS)