“I am so honored to have the opportunity to create and implement a unique and proven scouting system under the Player Development Program,” said Cris Gilmore. “The importance of taking on this responsibility in the hotbed of our country’s talent pool is not something I will take lightly. I look forward to working with all of our directors to ensure the best players in our region are represented and showcased at higher national and international levels.”

Prior to joining SoCal, Gilmore served as NorCal Premier Soccer’s Director of Adult Soccer, on the Technical Committee and as a Coaching Educator, where he organized and instructed U.S. Soccer Grassroots and D courses to hundreds of coaches.

Gilmore also served as a PDP Head Coach, Regional Director and State Team Coach while at NorCal Premier. 

“After a national search that produced many worthy candidates, we believe that Cris provides the necessary experience to build our PDP and coaching education platforms so that our players and coaches can continue to excel both on and off the field,” said Teddy Chronopolous, SoCal Technical Committee member. “With Cris’ vast experience and knowledge working within the NorCal PDP and coaching education programs, as well as his history as a player and his commitment to elevating his own level of education in the game, it was evident that his goals and vision align with ours. The SoCal goal is to be leaders in both Player Development and Coaching Development and provide opportunities for all.“

Gilmore holds several coaching licenses including the U.S. Soccer Grassroots Instructor License, U.S. Soccer A License, U.S. Youth Soccer Youth National License Coaching Diploma and an NSCAA Advanced National Diploma. He also holds two licenses from the Netherlands: the Trainers Course II, Professional Level and Trainers Course III.

“We are very excited to welcome Cris Gilmore as SoCal’s Director of Special Programming,” said Leo Garcia, US Club Soccer VP of Competitions & NPL General Manager. “The experience and passion he brings to SoCal is fantastic and we look forward to seeing where he leads the program in the near future.”