Rapids Central

Stephen Reed brings a wealth of coaching experience and knowledge to Rapids Central. Stephen has a USSF B-License and a degree in Psychology and Philosophy from Regis University (Denver, CO). His driving force in coaching is supporting and providing others with an unwavering belief in their capabilities. When not out on the pitch coaching, or playing, Stephen enjoys outdoor activities like hiking and rock climbing with his wife and dog.

My name is Makaila Gibson. I'm a Colorado Native with an extensive background in youth sports. I have a passion for helping people, and I cannot wait to learn and expand in my position here at Rapids. I have a 5-year-old daughter in the club and have been married to my husband for just over a year. I look forward to working with you all and getting to know you and your families better!

Lexi comes to Colorado from Baltimore, MD. Lexi was the starting goalkeeper at Goucher College (2012-16). In 2018, she became the head coach at Notre Dame of Maryland University and led them to their first playoff appearance in program history. She was the Technical Director of Goalkeeping for the Towson United Soccer Club. She holds a Master's degree in Athletic Program Leadership and Administration, USSF D License, Sports Performance diploma, and GK 3 diploma from United Soccer Coaches. She will earn her USSF C license in December 2023.

Etzael Gonzalez a Dallas, Texas native enters his second year with the Colorado Rapids Youth Soccer Club serving as part of the coaching staff at NCAA Division 1 Men’s soccer program at the University of South Florida. During Coach Gonzalez's tenure at the University of South Florida (USF), the Bulls achieved a notable record of 9-7-4. Notably, the team experienced a remarkable resurgence in the latter half of the season, amassing an impressive 6-3-1 record. This surge culminated in their appearance in the American Athletic Conference Championship Final, marking their return to this stage for the first time since 2016. Furthermore, the Bulls secured an At-Large Bid to the 2022 NCAA Championship Tournament, marking their first participation since 2019. In a thrilling First Round match against Hofstra, they emerged victorious with a 4-2 scoreline, marking their first NCAA tournament win since 2011. South Florida's achievement of scoring four goals in this match equaled the school's record for the most goals scored in an NCAA Tournament match, a feat previously accomplished in a 4-4 draw against Virginia in 2005. Gonzalez joined the Bulls after three seasons as the Performance Analyst for the NCAA Division 1 Women’s soccer program, the University of Oklahoma Women's soccer program. Following his playing collegiate career at Hardin-Simmons University, Gonzalez went on to open his coaching career with MLS Club member FC Dallas Youth. At the Academy and youth side, he mentored US youth national team players of the FC Dallas’ Academy, working side-by-side with Academy and North Texas SC coaches. Gonzalez would go on to join OU’s Strength and Conditioning Department in the Summer of 2019, where he reported to the Olympic Sports Director. Shortly thereafter, Gonzalez expanded his role at OU to the soccer pitch, joining the women’s soccer staff. Gonzalez earned a bachelor’s degree in Exercise Science in 2019 at Hardin-Simmons University and a master's degree in Intercollegiate Athletic Administration at the University of Oklahoma in 2023, where he was previously funded as an academic graduate assistant for student-athletes in various sports. Gonzalez was awarded the United Soccer Coaches 30 Under 30 for the 24-25 year designed to support up-and-coming members of the coaching profession who are 30 years of age or younger. Gonzalez holds a USSF “B” and UEFA “C” through the Scottish FA. He is currently pursuing his “A” license through US Soccer and UEFA B License through the Scottish FA.