Coaches
Our Coaching Philosophy
Fostering Excellence
Every Cupertino FC coach is professionally licensed and trained directly by our technical director, ensuring consistent, high-quality instruction across all age groups. Our coaching approach is built on our three foundational pillars, and implemented through a lens of professional expertise and scientific methodology.
Community-driven coaching means our licensed professionals understand Cupertino families and create genuine relationships with every player — mentoring not just instructing.
Individual development translates to personalized training regimens designed by certified coaches who track each player’s progress and adapt techniques to their learning style.
Science-based training means our technical director Bob Joyce trains every coach in kinesiology principles, injury prevention, and age-appropriate development methods.
We believe every child — from the natural athlete to the late bloomer — deserves expert coaching and the opportunity to excel. Our low player-to-coach ratios ensure that no player sits on the sidelines of their own development. Through professional instruction rooted in sports science, we don’t just improve technical skills; we build the mental fortitude, strategic thinking, and leadership qualities that create confident young people ready for any challenge life presents.
Meet our Coaches
Leadership
Lauv Aeron
Director
A passionate advocate for Cupertino youth soccer, Aeron founded Cupertino FC nearly a decade ago and remains deeply committed to our community. His local leadership includes serving as AYSO R35 director and a Rotary Club member, while his background, with a masters from Carnegie Mellon and career in tech, ensures efficient operations. With his son Neer coaching in the program and formerly captaining Monta Vista’s team, Lauv’s dedication to developing young players is both professional and personal.
Bob Joyce
Technical Director
A Santa Clara University soccer alum, Bob brings over 50 years of coaching experience to the club, and a deep expertise in kinesiology and holistic player development. Widely recognized as one of the Bay Area’s top coaches, Bob has guided boys and girls teams to numerous State titles and podiums. His players have reached national and international levels, including U.S. Women’s National Team star Naomi Girma.
Pancho Tzankov
Director of Coaching
With his USSF C License and over 15 years of coaching experience, Pancho brings expertise combined with genuine enthusiasm. As Monta Vista High School’s varsity coach for seven years, his analytical approach (backed by a PhD in Physics) and genuine passion for youth development have produced remarkable results – including his own sons, one now playing college soccer and the other starring on Monta Vista’s varsity team.
Other Coaches
Neer Aeron
Head Coach
Former MVHS Varsity Captain
Brandon Gessner
Head Coach
MVHS Varsity and JV Coach
Rick Gallo
Head Coach
MVHS Girl’s Varsity Coach
Sergio Valladarez
Assistant Coach
West Valley Soccer Alum
Diego Pacheco
Assistant Coach
SJ State Soccer Alum
Chivas Ledezma
Assistant Coach
SJ Earthquakes Academy Alum
Interested in Coaching with Us?
We’re always looking for passionate, positive leaders to join our coaching team. If you’re excited about helping young athletes grow, we’d love to hear from you. Soccer experience is a plus, but a commitment to learning and developing players is most important.