The proving Ground
OUR COACHES
Behind every great player is a coach who pushed them, believed in them, and refused to let them settle. Meet the trainers building the next generation of competitors at The Proving Ground.
Angel ZAVALA
HEAD COACH & MANAGING PARTNER
Angel Zavala is the managing partner of The Proving Ground and a proven coach committed to developing high-level athletes through discipline, accountability, and growth. As Head Varsity Coach at Long Beach Poly, he led the program to its first Moore League Championship in nearly a decade and a historic CIF Finals run in 2025, earning Coach of the Year and recognition from the City of Long Beach. Angel's mission is to develop complete players who can compete at the highest levels while becoming confident, disciplined leaders in life.
COACHING STAFF
Coach tony TSMT
Bio coming soon
COACH ISAAC AYALA
Bio coming soon.
Coach Joe Gonzalez
Coach Joe Gonzalez brings more than 30 years of combined experience in high-level soccer development, coaching, and player mentorship to The Proving Ground.
Throughout his career, Coach Joe has built a proven track record of developing competitive players and teams, including three D1 high school league championships, two State Cup championships, one State Cup finalist appearance, and multiple club tournament championships and elite titles.
His coaching philosophy is built around the N.S.O.L. — “No Sheep, Only Lions” — a mindset centered on discipline, passion, patience, and long-term player development. Coach Joe believes that true development goes beyond technical ability. His training focuses on developing the technical, tactical, physical, and mental aspects of the game while challenging players to become confident, disciplined, and fearless competitors.
Coach Joe is passionate about helping athletes reach their individual goals, whether they are aspiring to compete at the academy, high school, club, or collegiate level. Through private and small-group training, he creates a demanding but positive environment where players are pushed to maximize their potential.
At The Proving Ground, Coach Joe is committed to developing not only better soccer players, but better competitors.
COACH Danny ramirez
Coach Danny brings a strong playing and coaching background. A four-year NCAA Division III student-athlete at Whittier College and now he is currently entering his third season as an assistant coach at Whittier College, where he continues to mentor and develop collegiate student-athletes.
Before joining California high school as the head coach, Coach Danny gained valuable high school coaching experience at Paramount High School and Sunny Hills High School, while also serving as a club coach with AC Brea.
Coach Nano
25 years with the game, and the journey is far from over. From 4 years of Division 1 soccer to playing professionally in Europe and stepping onto the Champions League stage, competing in professional indoor, reaching back-to-back TST semi-finals, and being in the US Women’s Futsal & Mini football National Team pools, this sport has given me everything. Now, as a technical developer, I’m ready to pour all that experience, relentless detail, and passion into investing in the next generation. Time to help the youth level up.
ALEX Valente
Hi! My name is Alex Valente! I am a Division 1 soccer player at CSUN and an upcoming sophomore. I play center back but I have spent time at outside back, so I have experience with defensive positions. This past freshman season I was honored All Big West Freshman Team. While in school I coach younger athletes on the weekends, helping them develop their skills and confidence on the field. I understand what it takes to balance athletics, academics, and my mental health. I am passionate about helping the next generation grow not just as players but as people.
Sydney santos
Hi! I’m Sydney and I play soccer at San Jose State. I play mostly in the wide channel positions including fullback, winger, and wingback. I’m passionate about sharing my perception of the game to help players become smarter and stronger on and off the field. I’m excited to work with you all!
MAKAYLA quesada
Hello, I’m Makayla, an upcoming sophomore and collegiate soccer player at Chico State. I’ve been playing soccer for 15 years and have experience in multiple positions, primarily in attacking roles. I’ve competed at the collegiate level and have a strong understanding of both the technical and mental sides of the game. I’m committed to continuing my own development while helping other athletes grow both on and off the field!