Our Staff
More than Coaches—Mentors Who’ve Lived It
Our staff have competed at the highest levels and know the journey firsthand. We build identity, fuel inspiration, and demand initiative—because the best leadership comes from those who have lived it.
James McGhee
Founder + Head Trainer
Coach James is a former professional player and the founder of McGhee Soccer Academy. A four-year starter and captain at Colorado Mesa University, he earned All-American and Academic All-American honors, was named to the CMU All-Decade Team, and made four NCAA Tournament appearances, capturing a conference championship and earning multiple All-Conference selections.
During his collegiate career, he also competed in the PDL with FC Tucson, finishing in the top eight nationally, before signing a professional contract and playing three seasons with Cal United Strikers in the NISA League.
As a coach, he is driven by a passion to build players who are confident, intelligent, and courageous—on and off the field. His philosophy blends technical mastery, tactical understanding and mental development to support players in maximizing their potential while cultivating a deep, lasting love for the game.
True development starts with who you are, grows through what you believe is possible, and comes alive when you take ownership of the journey.
Danny Baca
Coach Danny is an elite attacking talent known for his goal-scoring ability, earning accolades such as Gatorade Player of the Year, All-American honors, multiple state and conference titles, and the 2025 UPSL Golden Boot.
As a high-level striker, he brings deep insight into finishing, creativity in the final third, and the mentality required to produce under pressure.
He is passionate about building confident, technically skilled and highly intelligent players. Above all, he is committed to creating an environment that cultivates a deep love for the game.
We don’t just develop athletes—we build identity, inspire vision, and ignite the initiative to chase greatness.
Jake Harvey
Coach Jake is a high-level defender with experience in both the U.S. and England, earning all-conference honors, Hampshire Schools FA and step 4 as well as winning multiple championships throughout his career.
He brings deep insight into positioning, defensive IQ, and the mentality required to excel at the highest level. In addition to on-field development, he also provides players with guidance through the college recruiting process from his experience as a collegiate graduate assistant.
He is passionate about developing confident, intelligent players and preparing them to excel at the next level.
