The Town, CA — April 21, 2025 | The Town FC is proud to announce the addition of Santiago Lopez to its Academy coaching staff. A respected figure in Bay Area soccer and one of the most accomplished coaches in the region, Lopez brings a rare combination of playing experience, elite coaching credentials, and a proven record of success at the national level.
A former professional player in Mexico with stints at Universidad Autónoma de Guadalajara and Necaxa (2nd Division) as well as Gallos De Aguascalientes (3rd Division), Lopez transitioned into coaching and has served as Head Coach and Club Manager of El Farolito since 2010.
Under his leadership, El Farolito has become one of the most competitive amateur sides in the country. In the past year alone, Lopez led the club to the 2024 NPSL National Championship and orchestrated major upsets over Timbers 2, Central Valley Fuego, Real Monarchs, and Monterey Bay FC in U.S. Open Cup competition.
Lopez holds a UEFA A License, a U.S. Soccer B License, and advanced certifications in Performance Analysis from the Scottish FA and Psychology in High Performance Sports from Barcelona Universitas. His well-rounded, detail-driven approach makes him an ideal fit for The Town FC Academy’s player-first development model.
“Santiago is a leader who has proven he can develop talent, win big games, and build a winning culture,” said Benno Nagel, President of The Town Group. “He brings a high-performance standard and deep commitment to his players—values that align perfectly with our Academy vision.”
At The Town FC Academy, Lopez will help oversee training and development across MLS NEXT age groups, working closely with players and staff to push the standard of youth soccer in the East Bay.
About The Town FC Academy
The Town FC Academy is an elite youth soccer platform built to serve players and coaches across the Bay Area. Launched in 2025, the Academy represents a new era of community collaboration, development, and opportunity. Through its participation in MLS NEXT and strategic partnerships with local clubs, The Town FC Academy provides a clear pathway to the professional game.