With U.S. Open Cup preparations underway and the 2024 USL League Two season approaching, Head Coach James Riley is hard at work preparing the team for competition alongside the rest of the technical and medical staff. We’re excited to introduce the new technical supporting staff and welcome back our medical staff!
Mutanda Kwesele – First Assistant Coach
Mutanda joins Ballard FC with extensive coaching experience including time with the Columbus Crew Academy. He is currently the Director of Coaching for Washington Youth Soccer EPD and is the founder of The Rising Point.
Josh Chasan – Assistant Coach
Josh is currently on the coaching staff at Eastside FC and previously has coached in California, Oregon, South Africa, Brazil, and Spain. Josh hold his UEFA B License and is trilingual, speaking English, Spanish and Portuguese.
Ben Dragavon – Head of Goalkeeping
Ben played for the Seattle Sounders between 2006-2009 and then had an extensive coaching career including roles with Seattle University and Seattle Reign FC among others. Ben currently owns and operates Athlete Complete.
Sean Rash – Assistant Goalkeeper Coach
Sean recently graduated from University of San Diego and currently coaches at Eastside FC. He is a passionate coach and will join the staff to assist with goalkeeper training and development.
Bo Pearson – Head of Strength and Conditioning
Bo has an extensive background in sport performance. He earned his BS in Exercise Science and Sport Psychology at PLU, where he also played baseball. He is the owner of Bronson Performance, where he works with athletes and military personnel.
Dr. Christian Peterson – Team Doctor
Dr. Peterson returns for his third season as the Team Doctor for Ballard FC. He currently serves as an Orthopedic Surgeon at UW Medicine and has extensive experience in sports medicine.
Tiffany Mallick – Athletic Trainer
Tiffany returns for her second season as Athletic Trainer. She has been an Athletic Trainer for Seattle University since 2017 and also has experience with the Sounders Women in 2016.
Jimmy Jadlos – Athletic Trainer
Jimmy returns for his third season at Ballard FC and has previous experience as an Athletic Trainer for Seattle University.
Head Coach James Riley on the technical staff:
“Mutanda brings exceptional value to our coaching team. A former college player with a deep understanding of the game, his expertise and holistic approach to player development and culture building will significantly benefit our team. His deep knowledge of the game makes him an integral part of our coaching staff.”
“Josh’s passion for coaching and the game of soccer is evident in his desire to continuously improve his knowledge and leadership skills. Having had various experiences worldwide, he brings a unique perspective to our coaching staff, enhancing our overall approach”
“Ben excels at developing collegiate and professional goalkeepers while prioritizing their well-being. He knows that a player’s health and happiness are crucial for success, on and off the field. Ben brings immense value to our coaching team with his holistic approach, and we eagerly anticipate his contributions.”
“Sean, an aspiring goalkeeper coach, exudes a passion for learning and a strong desire to contribute. His competitive spirit and meticulous approach make him valuable to our coaching team. His understanding of the game is unparalleled, and he constantly strives to improve his skills and techniques.
“Bo’s expertise in Strength and Conditioning will be a game-changer for our team. With a focus on player strength, durability, and balance, he will play a vital role in optimizing our training sessions and games. Bo’s athlete-centered approach brings a unique perspective to physical development, ensuring our players’ best interests are always the top priority.”
