Coach Kuko’s Dedication and Passion: How Coach Juarez Led La Academia FC to Success

Coach Juarez from Refugio Juarez has been recognized as the Arizona Sports Coach of the Month for April for his outstanding work in coaching the soccer players of La Academia FC in Mesa. Known as Coach Kuko to his players, Juarez has shown dedication and passion in his role as a coach, always putting the needs and development of his players first.

Juarez coaches the 2013 boys soccer team for La Academia in Mesa, a club that practices three nights a week from 6-8 p.m. Despite working a landscaping job during the day, Juarez never misses a practice session and is always there to support and guide his players. He is known for his positive attitude, patience, and welcoming demeanor towards all the kids on the team, treating them as if they were his own. Juarez has a strong focus on team unity and improvement, pushing his players to excel both on and off the field.

Under Juarez’s coaching, the team has achieved great success in the past season, winning both the 2023 Arizona Soccer Club Heritage Cup and the 2024 East Valley Spring Invitational. Despite facing tough competition in these tournaments, Juarez ensured that every player on the team received regular playing time, emphasizing the importance of teamwork and personal growth. His coaching style, characterized by encouragement and support, has led to the team winning numerous close games and coming together as a cohesive unit.

One parent shared her daughter’s experience with Coach Kuko, noting that her daughter’s skills and confidence on the field have improved significantly since joining the team. Juarez saw potential in her during tryouts and practices, and his guidance