Founder | Head of Football Operations

Edgar founded Socal Ballerz FA with a clear mission: to expand access to structured soccer development, mentorship, and educational pathways for youth and young adults, particularly those from underserved communities.

Through community-centered programs, global training methodology, and a strong emphasis on discipline, character, and lifeskill, SoCal Ballerz FA works to support players both on and off the field. The organization focuses on long-term personal growth, academic guidance, and informed pathways to collegiate and professional opportunities—without barriers to access.

“Elite performance is the standard. Opportunity is the mission.”

Meet Our Coaches

Edgar “Chato” Gonzalez

Coach | Player Development

Former collegiate standout with experience at CSU Fresno and CSU Long Beach, followed by competitive play at the semi- professional level with United City FC.

Liz brings a player-centered approach to development, with an emphasis on technical consistency, speed of play, and confidence in match situations. She is passionate about mentoring young athletes and supporting their growth both on and off the field.

Through her work Socal Ballerz FA, Liz focuses on helping youth build strong foundations in discipline, self-belief, and game understanding while supporting long-term athletic, academic, and personal development.

“Control the controllable.”

  • Professional & Competitive Experience

    • Mexico: Pachuca (2007-2008)

    • USA: Mt. SAC—State Champions /National Champion (2009-2011)

    • Guatemala: Deportivo Coatepeque — League Champions

    • Armenia: FC Pyunik --League Champions/ Europa League Qualification

    • USA: Ventura County Fusion—Playoff Finalist (2015)

    • Guatemala: Super Gallos Zacapa (2015-2016)

    • Germany: Darmstadt FCA (2018-2019)

    • Germany: TSV Vatanspor Bad Homburg (2020-2021)

Liz Lyons

  • ·      Santa Monica High School — 3- year letterwinner; 3x All-Ocean League selection & Rookie of the Year (2009)

    ·      Beach FC — 2009-2011

    ·      Long Beach State — Big West All- Freshman Team (2009)

    ·      Long Beach State — 2012-2015

    ·      United City FC — 2017-2023

Ryan Couso

Coach | Defensive Development

Former collegiate defender with experience at LACC and elite youth academies including Fullerton Rangers, Strikers, and CDA Slammers. Ryan specializes in developing defenders with a strong emphasis on positioning, decision-making, and playing out of the back.

“Defense wins championships. Effort and discipline set the standard.”

  • Fullerton Rangers- State Cup Champions(2012-2014)

    CDA Slammers- Texas Cup Champions, National Cup Champions, Manchester City Cup (2014-2016)

    Strikers Irvine Academy (2016-2018)

    Currently playing at Mt. SAC

Who We Are

SoCal Ballerz FA is a community- based soccer organization dedicated to developing confident, disciplined, and well- rounded young athletes. Through soccer, we create an environment where players can grow as athletes and as individuals, regardless of their background or circumstances.

Our “Why”

Our visions to create an inclusive soccer community where every young person — regardless of income, background, or ability—has the opportunity to learn, grow, and thrive through the game of soccer.

We are committed to removing Barries and creating opportunities that build confidence, leadership, and a lifelong love for the sport.

Core Values

◎Education first- We value learning and personal growth alongside athletic development.

◎Access & Inclusion- We believe soccer should be accessible to every player, regardless of financial or social barriers.

◎Character & Integrity- We teach respect, accountability, discipline and sportsmanship.

◎Community Impact- We use soccer to positively impact athletes, families, and the communities we serve.

◎Player- Centered Development- We prioritize long-term growth, confidence, and development over short-term results.