
Meet The Team

Tyler Zarranz
Coach Tyler brings over 10 years of coaching experience at the youth, high school, and semi-professional levels. Currently serving as the Head Coach of the JV team and Assistant Coach for the Varsity team at Christopher Columbus High School, Tyler has been instrumental in developing one of South Florida’s strongest soccer programs. At the club level, he coaches competitive teams with Pinecrest Premier, where his leadership and commitment to player development earned him the 2024 EDP Coach of the Year award.
Tyler has guided teams to major successes, including winning the NSL Championship, and his passion for the game is fueled by his own playing career, which includes semi-professional experience with the Houston Dutch Lions. Tyler is dedicated to creating a positive, challenging environment that helps players sharpen their technical skills, grow tactically, and build the confidence needed to excel both on and off the field.

Eduardo Diaz
Coach Eddy brings over 20 years of experience both as a player and a coach. Coach Eddy coached at Pinecrest, Gulliver, and Christopher Columbus high school. Born and raised in Miami Dade County, he led Christopher Columbus to its first ever state championship before going on to play at the United States Air Force Academy. Coach Eddy is passionate about being a positive role model for young athletes guiding them to develop confidence and awareness in themselves.

Daniel Del Rio
Coach Danny is a dedicated soccer coach with over 10 years of experience developing players across all ages and skill levels. As the captain of Christopher Columbus High School's soccer team, he led the Explorers to their first and only FHSAA state championship in 2014—a landmark achievement in the school's history. He continued his playing career as a Division 1 athlete at Florida Atlantic University and later contributed to top-ranked junior college and semi-professional teams. Danny's coaching philosophy emphasizes technical excellence, tactical awareness, and personal growth, empowering each player to reach their full potential both on and off the field.

Thomas Perez
Coach Thomas brings over 18 years of experience as a player and coach. Throughout his career, he has worked in highly qualified soccer environments, gaining a wide range of expertise and insight into the game. Coach Thomas is passionate about helping young athletes avoid burnout and continue to enjoy the sport they love. He focuses on instilling confidence, developing a positive mindset, and fostering a lifelong passion for soccer.

Mathew Antolinez
Coach Matthew brings quality experience from competing at some of the highest youth and collegiate levels in the U.S. He developed his skills over five years in MLS Next/Development Academy with Miami Rush Kendall before moving on to play semi-professionally with the Miami Dutch Lions in the NPSL. Matthew continued his playing career at Marymount University, where he helped the program win their conference, and later played at Florida Memorial University in the NAIA. He has also competed in the USL Academy with Miami FC and was a finalist at prestigious tournaments like the Dallas Cup and Danone Cup. Coach Matthew is passionate about fostering a love for the game while helping young players reach their full potential on and off the field through patience and hard work.

Jose Rodriguez
Coach Jose brings over 15 years of experience as a player and a coach. He played at Christopher Columbus and at Strikers Miami FC. Born and raised in Miami Dade County, he helped Christopher Columbus win a district title and Strikers Miami FC win a State Championship and qualify for nationals. Coach Jose’s love for the game helps the youth learn and be able to grow there skills and confidence.

Mark
Coach Mark combines elite playing experience with a deep passion for player development. As the captain of a top ranked soccer team in the country, he knows what it takes to compete — and win — at the highest levels. Growing up in South Florida, he has made it his mission to inspire and prepare young athletes for success on and off the field. Coach Mark is committed to helping players master their skills, build confidence, and unlock their full potential through a culture of excellence and positivity.

Santiago Garces-Gutierrez
Coach Santi began coaching several years ago starting as a head coach at John A. Ferguson High School for two years where he developed a strong team and culture focused on growth. After he spent two years as an assistant coach at Bay lions FSC, collaborating with staff to enhance players’ development across various levels. Coach Santi is passionate about emphasizing leadership, strategy, and creating a supportive environment for athletes to thrive.

Valentian Salvatierra
Coach Valentina brings over 15 years of experience as both a player and a coach. She represented Venezuela at the U15 National Team level and competed in the 2018 Copa Libertadores Futsal tournament (Paraguay). Valentina played Division 1 professional soccer in Venezuela, has four years of collegiate playing experience (NAIA), and is currently a USLW semi-pro player (2022–2025). In addition to coaching at South Miami United for the past six years, she is also a certified strength and conditioning coach. Valentina is passionate about helping young athletes build confidence, develop elite athleticism, and reach their highest potential on and off the field.