Avalanche Coaching Staff

At Avalanche Soccer Club, coaching is about more than teaching soccer. Our coaches are educators, mentors, and role models who are committed to helping every player grow both on and off the field.


Our staff brings experience from youth, collegiate, professional, and international soccer, while sharing a common commitment to player-centered development. Guided by the Avalanche coaching philosophy, our coaches create positive learning environments that challenge players, encourage creativity, and foster confidence.


Whether a player is taking their first steps in competitive soccer or preparing for high school and beyond, our coaching staff is dedicated to helping each athlete reach their potential while developing a lifelong love of the game.


A Collaborative Coaching Approach

Player development at Avalanche is supported by a collaborative coaching structure designed to provide every athlete with the resources, guidance, and support they need to succeed.

Club Leadership & Technical Staff oversee player development pathways, coach education, curriculum implementation, and the overall soccer experience throughout the club.

Lead Coaches provide leadership within their age groups, mentor fellow coaches, and help ensure a consistent developmental experience aligned with the Avalanche philosophy.

Team Coaches and Assistant Coaches work directly with players throughout the season, leading training sessions, supporting match-day development, and building positive relationships with players and families.

Goalkeeper Coaches provide specialized training and mentorship that helps goalkeepers develop confidence, technical skills, decision-making, and leadership.


More Than Soccer

While our coaches bring a wealth of soccer experience and qualifications, they also bring unique backgrounds, careers, and life experiences that shape the way they connect with players. From engineers and educators to architects, artists, business professionals, and former collegiate and professional athletes, our staff shares a common belief that soccer is a powerful tool for teaching life skills.

Whether a player dreams of competing at the highest levels or simply wants to enjoy the game with friends, our coaches are dedicated to creating an environment where every athlete feels valued, challenged, supported, and inspired to reach their potential.

Fall 2026 Avalanche Academy Teams

 U9 & U10 Boys and Girls

U9 & U10 Girls Lead Coach

Levi Rossi

Levi is a Colorado native with a passion for helping young athletes build confidence, leadership, self-awareness, and life skills through the game of soccer.

His coaching experience includes serving as Director of Coaching for Avalanche Soccer Club, nine years on the coaching staff of the University of Denver Men's and Women's Soccer programs, Head Coach of USL2 club Flatirons FC, and coaching at Ole Football Academy in New Zealand. Levi has worked with players at every level of the game, from youth soccer to collegiate and professional athletes.

As a player, Levi captained the University of New Mexico men's soccer team and was a two-time Academic All-American.


"I believe soccer is one of the best vehicles for teaching confidence, leadership, resilience, and teamwork. My goal is to create an environment where players feel supported, challenged, and empowered to grow both as athletes and as people. Success is not only measured by wins and losses, but by the character, habits, and relationships players develop along the way."

U9 & U10 Boys Lead Coach

Mike Catalano

U9B Blue & U10B Black Team Coach

Mike Catalano has been a dedicated coach with Avalanche Soccer Club for more than 15 years, helping develop generations of players within the club. In addition to his coaching experience, Mike is a school teacher, bringing his passion for education, mentorship, and youth development into every training session and match.

Mike holds a U.S. Soccer Federation C License and has spent years creating positive learning environments where players can grow both on and off the field. His experience in the classroom and on the soccer field allows him to connect with players, foster confidence, and support each athlete's individual development.


"As both a teacher and a coach, I believe learning happens best when players feel supported, encouraged, and challenged. My goal is to create an environment where players can develop their skills, build confidence, and learn valuable lessons about teamwork, effort, and sportsmanship."


Lindsay Massengale

U9G Black Team Coach

Lindsay Massengale is a former professional soccer player and experienced collegiate coach with a passion for developing athletes both on and off the field. She joined Avalanche Soccer Club in 2025 and brings a wealth of knowledge from some of the country's top collegiate soccer programs.


Lindsay's coaching experience includes roles at the University of North Carolina, Clemson University, Idaho State University, the University of San Francisco, the University of Denver, and Northeastern University. Her extensive collegiate coaching background provides young players with a strong foundation in technical development, game understanding, and personal growth. As a player, Lindsay competed at Clemson University before continuing her career professionally with the Boston Breakers and San Jose Pride.

Emily Green

U10 B Black Team Coach

Emily Green has been a valued member of the Avalanche Soccer Club coaching staff for five years, helping create positive and engaging experiences for young players as they develop their skills and confidence.


A lifelong athlete, Emily played competitive soccer through high school and continued her athletic career as a multi-event track and field athlete in college. Her diverse sports background gives her a unique perspective on athletic development, teamwork, and personal growth. Outside of soccer, Emily works as an engineering project manager in the renewable energy industry and volunteers with Special Olympics Colorado. Her passion for supporting others and creating inclusive environments carries into her coaching philosophy and interactions with players.

David Hornik

U10B Blue Team Coach

David Hornik joined Avalanche Soccer Club in 2025 and brings a lifelong passion for soccer and youth development to the club. His coaching experience includes working with Soccer Shots, where he helped introduce young players to the game while building confidence, coordination, and a love for soccer.


David's soccer journey began in Florida before spending four formative years in England, where he played in a competitive youth league and developed a deep appreciation for the sport and its culture. After returning to the United States, he continued his playing career with Ellicott City Soccer Club and Thunder Soccer Club, competing at a high level and gaining experience in multiple positions on the field. Currently pursuing a degree in Architecture and Planning at CU Denver, David brings creativity, energy, and a player-centered approach to every training session.

Fall 2026 Avalanche Competitive Teams

 U11 & U17 Boys and Girls

U11, U12 Girls Lead Coach

Bonnie Young

Bonnie Young brings an exceptional level of coaching experience to Avalanche Soccer Club, with a career spanning youth, collegiate, professional, and national team environments. She currently serves as a U.S. Soccer Girls Youth National Team Talent ID Scout and Head Coach for the USYS West Region, helping identify and develop some of the top young players in the country.

Throughout her coaching career, Bonnie has served as Head Coach for Colorado Select ODP, Elevation FC, and Real Colorado, while also holding leadership positions as Girls Director of Coaching and Director of College Pathways. At the collegiate level, she spent over a decade coaching at Metro State University and other programs, and she gained professional experience as an Assistant Coach and Sports Performance Coach with the Chicago Red Stars of the National Women's Soccer League.

As a player, Bonnie competed at Penn State University before continuing her professional career with the NY Power, NJ Sky Blue/NJ Wildcats, and Chicago Red Stars.

U13, U14/U15 Girls Lead Coach

Kari Spicer

U14/15G Select Team Coach

Kari Spicer is a Colorado native, former Avalanche Academy Director, and current Goalkeeper Coach. Kari is a full-time coach and brings extensive experience in player development, coach education, while building positive learning environments for athletes of all ages.

Her coaching experience includes leadership roles with Avalanche Soccer Club, Flatirons Rush (USL), Indios Denver FC (WPSL), Skyline Soccer Association, FC Denver (CPL), TOCA Denver, and Colorado Select. As a specialized goalkeeper coach and mentor, she has worked with players ranging from youth soccer to collegiate and semi-professional levels.

As a player, Kari competed for Boulder County United and Indios Denver FC in the WPSL, FC Denver in the Colorado Premier League, and was a collegiate student-athlete at Dominican College and Colorado State University.

Kari holds a USSF D License, United Soccer Coaches Level 2 & 3 Goalkeeping Diplomas, and certifications as a Wildland Firefighter, EMT, and CPR provider. Her diverse experiences have strengthened her commitment to leadership, service, and helping others reach their potential.

U11 Boys Lead Coach

Adam Ewig

U11B Select Team Coach

Adam Ewig brings a wealth of experience in player development and talent identification to Avalanche Soccer Club. In addition to coaching with Avalanche, Adam has served as a Head Coach within the Colorado Select ODP and Young Olympians programs, helping identify and develop some of Colorado's most promising young players.

Holding the a U.S. Soccer Federation A License, the highest coaching license offered by U.S. Soccer, Adam combines advanced technical knowledge with a player-centered approach to development. His coaching philosophy focuses on creating an environment where players are encouraged to think, make decisions, and develop confidence through the game.

Adam's experience working with players across multiple age groups and competitive levels allows him to help athletes build strong technical foundations while fostering a lifelong love for soccer.

U12 Boys & U16/17 Girls & Boys Lead Coach

Levi Rossi

U12B Select Team Coach, U16/17G Select Team Coach

Levi is a Colorado native with a passion for helping young athletes build confidence, leadership, self-awareness, and life skills through the game of soccer.

His coaching experience includes serving as Director of Coaching for Avalanche Soccer Club, nine years on the coaching staff of the University of Denver Men's and Women's Soccer programs, Head Coach of USL2 club Flatirons FC, and coaching at Ole Football Academy in New Zealand. Levi has worked with players at every level of the game, from youth soccer to collegiate and professional athletes.

As a player, Levi captained the University of New Mexico men's soccer team and was a two-time Academic All-American.


"I believe soccer is one of the best vehicles for teaching confidence, leadership, resilience, and teamwork. My goal is to create an environment where players feel supported, challenged, and empowered to grow both as athletes and as people. Success is not only measured by wins and losses, but by the character, habits, and relationships players develop along the way."

U13 Boys Head Coach

Hernan Sosa

U13B Select Team Coach

Hernan Sosa has been a dedicated coach with Avalanche Soccer Club for five years and is passionate about creating opportunities for young players to learn, grow, and enjoy the game. In addition to his work with Avalanche, Hernan has been actively involved with FirstKick, a free after-school outreach program that introduces soccer to children and helps make the sport accessible to more families in the community.

Professionally, Hernan works as a graphic designer, bringing creativity, communication, and problem-solving skills into both his career and coaching. His ability to connect with people and think creatively helps him create engaging learning environments where players feel comfortable expressing themselves and developing confidence.

Hernan's commitment to youth development extends beyond coaching. As the father of two daughters who played for Avalanche Soccer Club, he has experienced the club from both a coach's and parent's perspective. This unique perspective helps him understand the importance of creating a positive environment where players can develop confidence, build friendships, and reach their potential.

As a Lead Coach, Hernan is committed to supporting both players and fellow coaches while helping ensure a consistent developmental experience across the age group.

U14/U15 Boys Lead Coach

Michael Jimenez

U14/15B Select Team Coach

Michael Jimenez has been a valued member of the Avalanche Soccer Club coaching staff for three years and is known throughout the club for the strong relationships he builds with players and families. His positive energy, approachable personality, and genuine investment in his players have made him one of the club's most respected and well-liked coaches.

As a former collegiate player at Regis University, Michael understands the commitment, discipline, and growth that soccer can provide. He uses those experiences to help players navigate their own development while fostering a supportive and competitive team environment.

As a Lead Coach, Michael is committed to helping players improve technically and tactically while building confidence, accountability, and a love for the game. He believes that strong relationships and trust are the foundation for meaningful player development.

Sara Tafoya

U11G Black Team Coach

Sara joined the Avalanche Soccer Club coaching staff in 2025 and brings a unique blend of creativity, leadership, and passion for youth development to her role as a coach. In addition to coaching, Sara serves as Avalanche's Social Media and Marketing Lead, helping tell the club's story, celebrate player achievements, and strengthen connections throughout the Avalanche community.


A lifelong soccer player, Sara believes the game provides valuable opportunities for young athletes to develop confidence, teamwork, resilience, and leadership. Her coaching approach focuses on creating a positive environment where players can challenge themselves, learn from mistakes, and most importantly, enjoy the game.

Outside of soccer, Sara works as a graphic and web designer and photographer. Her creative background allows her to bring energy, enthusiasm, and a unique perspective to both her coaching and club leadership roles. She is also a proud mom of two young children, Grady and Lena, who continue to inspire her love of learning, creativity, and play.

Kirsten Bassett 

U12G Black Team Coach

Kirsten is entering her third season as a coach with Avalanche Soccer Club and brings a passion for player development, problem-solving, and lifelong learning to the field. A former competitive player for more than 12 years, Kirsten understands the positive impact youth sports can have on confidence, teamwork, and personal growth.


Kirsten holds a U.S. Soccer Federation D License and is committed to creating a learning environment where players are encouraged to think, make decisions, and develop both technically and tactically. She believes soccer provides valuable opportunities for young athletes to challenge themselves, build resilience, and develop skills that extend far beyond the game. Outside of soccer, Kirsten works as a Product Development Engineer in the sports medicine industry, designing orthopedic devices that help athletes recover from injury and return to the activities they love. Her professional background reinforces her passion for helping people grow, improve, and reach their potential.

Rachael Ruff

U12G Assistant Coach

Rachael Ruff has been coaching with Avalanche Soccer Club for four years and is passionate about helping young athletes develop confidence, skills, and a love for the game. Throughout her time with the club, she has worked with players across multiple age groups as both a head and assistant coach, creating positive experiences that support both individual growth and team success.

Joey Sorich

U13B Black Team Coach

Joey joined the Avalanche Soccer Club coaching staff in 2025 and brings a lifelong passion for soccer, teamwork, and personal growth to his coaching role. Originally from the Chicago area, Joey played soccer from a young age through his college years and has remained actively involved in the game through recreational leagues and coaching.


Joey embraces the Brazilian soccer philosophy of Joga Bonito—"Play Beautiful." For him, soccer is about creativity, joy, teamwork, and self-expression. He loves helping players discover their unique strengths while building confidence and a genuine love for the game. As a coach, he hopes to create positive experiences and lasting memories that players will carry with them long after the season ends. Outside of soccer, Joey works for the United States Postal Service as a mail carrier in Denver. He enjoys staying active through sports, reading, listening to podcasts, and continually learning new things.

Leah Athoff

U13G Select Team Coach

Leah joined the Avalanche Soccer Club coaching staff in 2025 and brings a lifelong love of soccer and youth development to her coaching role. Growing up in Minnesota, Leah played competitive soccer throughout her childhood and high school years, developing a strong appreciation for the lessons the game teaches about teamwork, perseverance, and personal growth.


As a coach, Leah is passionate about creating a positive environment where players feel supported, challenged, and encouraged to be themselves. She believes that confidence and enjoyment are key ingredients in player development and strives to help every athlete build both their skills and self-belief. Outside of soccer, Leah works as an Air Quality Permitting Engineer and enjoys many of Colorado's outdoor activities, including skiing, hiking, volleyball, and yoga. She also performs stand-up comedy, bringing energy, humor, and positivity to everything she does.

Walter Bryant

U14/15B Black Team Coach

Walter Bryant has been coaching with Avalanche Soccer Club for two years and is passionate about helping young athletes develop confidence, discipline, and a strong work ethic through sports. 

Walter's background in Exercise Science, Human Performance, Strength and Conditioning, and Coaching provides him with a well-rounded understanding of athletic development. He is a NSCA Certified Personal Trainer and holds CPR and First Aid certifications, helping him support players' physical development in a safe and age-appropriate manner.


Having played soccer since the age of four and coached athletes across multiple sports and levels, Walter understands the importance of creating an environment where players can grow both as athletes and as people. Walter is known for the strong relationships he builds with players and families and for creating a positive team culture where athletes feel supported and motivated to improve. He enjoys helping players gain confidence in themselves, embrace challenges, and discover what they are capable of accomplishing through hard work and perseverance. For Walter, some of the most rewarding moments in coaching come from seeing players grow as teammates, leaders, and young adults.

Joey Oslund

U14/15 Boys Asst. Coach

Joey joined the Avalanche Soccer Club coaching staff in 2025 and brings a lifelong love of soccer, learning, and teamwork to his role as an Assistant Coach. Originally from Minneapolis, Minnesota, Joey played goalkeeper throughout his youth and college career, including for the club soccer team at Marquette University.


As an active player in local recreational leagues, Joey continues to stay connected to the game and enjoys sharing his enthusiasm for soccer with the next generation of players. His experience as a goalkeeper has helped shape his understanding of leadership, communication, and supporting teammates both on and off the field. As an Assistant Coach, Joey is committed to creating a positive environment where players feel encouraged to learn, compete, and enjoy the game while building confidence and strong team relationships.

Mike Farquhar

Mike Farquhar joined the Avalanche Soccer Club coaching staff in 2025 and brings a unique international perspective and deep appreciation for the game of soccer. Originally from Stirling, Scotland, Mike grew up immersed in football culture and played for his school, town, and university while studying Fine Art.


Throughout his life, Mike has been involved in community-based soccer programs and helped establish a socially inclusive football club in South Manchester. He believes strongly in the power of sport to bring people together, build character, and positively impact individuals and communities. Mike's coaching philosophy has been shaped by a lifetime spent around the game, drawing inspiration from the traditions of Scottish football as well as the principles of Johan Cruyff's "Total Football." He values creativity, teamwork, decision-making, and helping players develop a deeper understanding of the game.


Outside of soccer, Mike has worked as an artist, educator, restaurateur, farmer, and antiques dealer, bringing a wealth of life experience and perspective to his coaching.

Avalon Sweany

U16-U17 Girls Asst. Coach

Avalon  joined the Avalanche Soccer Club coaching staff in 2025 and brings a lifelong passion for soccer and player development to her role as an Assistant Coach. Originally from Southern California, Avalon has been involved in the game since the age of four and has played for more than two decades through recreational, club, and collegiate soccer programs.


In addition to her playing experience, Avalon has spent time providing private soccer lessons, helping players build technical skills, confidence, and a deeper understanding of the game. Outside of soccer, Avalon works as a Sales and Marketing Manager and enjoys reading, cooking, and spending time with her two cats, Sir Lancelot and Sir Percival.