Vail Soccer Club

★★★★★Anthony Lievanos

In my experience of playing soccer for 30 years playing for the Air force, Leagues in Cuba and the US then the Bundesliga in Germany and serving in the military for 14 years I base my opinion around the coaches and programs I've seen. This program is tough but fair, for example the child's actions dictate how well practice will go, so if the kids don't want to listen and talk over the coach or not do what's being asked of them, their actions cause corrective courses. Parents want competitive programs like these to allow growth and for the love of the game but if one or more kids are disrupting it for everyone, consequences are warranted. Maybe some actions seem harsh on the surface but the overall mentality of this club is to turn children into young adults which I feel is sometimes lost through the parents eyes. I want to specifically thank my sons coach (Mateo) for being the mentor and role model to my son by showing him what real strength, mental fortitude, integrity, and overall giving him the environment for his self-confidence to sore. Lastly, I love this program because it builds children to become good people and the coaches work to accomplish not just good soccer players but good people as well. Throughout my years in the soccer world I haven't come across many clubs that has been able to balance being tough and fair but all the coaches I've had first hand experience with (Coach Mateo) in the Vail Soccer Club have been able to harness this massive feat. If anyone has any questions or concerns about this program I welcome all and any.

★★★★★Sarah St.Cyr

We have had a great experience with Vail Soccer. We have done both the developmental and competitive parts of the club and really appreciate the growth that both my children have shown. Coach Mateo has been instrumental in my son's experience and we appreciate all the work that he has done in not only making him the best player he can be but also sets a good example for my son to follow. We have had such a good experience with the club that my daughter has joined and is looking forward to working with Coach Mikayla. Thank you for having coaches that really care about the kids and set a good example for them.

★★★★★Jessica Santana

We’ve had an overall great experience with Vail Soccer Club for both of our kids. The program is well-run, supportive, and truly focused on player development. We’ve especially been happy with Coach Mateo as our oldest son’s coach—he’s been a fantastic influence both on and off the field. He brings out the best in his players with a great balance of discipline, encouragement, and passion for the game. It’s clear he cares about the kids and wants to see them grow not just as athletes, but as individuals. We’re grateful to have him coaching our son and excited for what’s ahead!

★John Hatzidakis

As a parent who has dedicated over 20 years to coaching youth sports and as a proud member of the military, I approach every challenge with discipline, structure, and a firm belief in fostering growth and camaraderie. Our experience with Coach Mateo at Vail Soccer Club, however, was a profound disappointment—one that contradicted everything I’ve spent my life teaching young athletes. From the very first practice, it was evident that Coach Mateo’s methods were far from constructive. His excessive yelling and harsh criticism created a climate of fear rather than encouragement. Having coached for decades, I recognize the importance of pushing athletes to achieve their potential, but there is a stark difference between constructive feedback and outright bullying. Unfortunately, Coach Mateo repeatedly crossed that line, publicly humiliating players and undermining their confidence. The disorganization within the team only compounded the issue. Practices were haphazard, schedules were inconsistently communicated, and there appeared to be no cohesive strategy for the team’s development. For someone like me, who values structure and preparation, this level of chaos was unacceptable. Worse still was the coach’s dismissive attitude—offering half-hearted apologies to the players while continuing the same hurtful behaviors. It became clear that his words were empty, and his actions spoke volumes about his inability to lead effectively. The culture under Coach Mateo’s guidance became one of fear and intimidation (even heard one parent say I am scare of Mateo and Mark). Players were too scared to take risks or make mistakes, not because they wanted to excel, but because they dreaded the beratement that would follow. This toxic environment is the antithesis of what youth sports should represent. As a coach, I’ve always strived to instill values of teamwork, resilience, and character-building. What we witnessed instead was a demoralizing experience that tore down the very principles these young athletes need to thrive specifically my son who was once over joyed to play in practice or games. He now dreads stepping on the field. Despite raising our concerns with the club multiple times, we were met with indifference and a complete lack of accountability and complete DISMISSIVENESS . The focus seemed to be on perfection in drills and favoritism towards select players, rather than the holistic well-being of the entire team. As both a parent and an experienced coach, I find this deeply troubling. Youth competitive sports should prioritize the development of every child, emphasizing inclusivity, confidence, and a love for the game. This experience has left a forever lasting negative impression, not only on my family but also on our faith in the club’s leadership. I strongly urge Vail Soccer Club to revisit its coaching standards and enforce accountability measures to ensure no child endures such harmful treatment in the future. Youth sports are about building character, not breaking spirits. It is time for a change—because no family should have to endure the disappointment and distress that we’ve faced. Enough is enough. VSC has a covered the market due to no competition in Vail to make them even compete to be better, you’ll just get the same old apology after apology with no change (because they don’t have to, and your opinion docent matter), so I Strongly advise if you don’t mind driving, go else where. Vail Soccer Club advertises core values of integrity, hard work, teamwork, self-respect, and leadership…. However they are far from it.

★★★★★Christine Connor

I have had nothing but an amazing experience with Vail Soccer Club and their coaches for both of my boys. Mark Biagi is passionate, smart and invested in his club and the coaches that work with him. The amount of skill my kids have obtained since being with VSC is incredible. The club fees are worth the experience my children get- and for those who only want to play recreationally the in-house program is fun and well organized. We came from another local club and couldn’t be happier with our decision, not only for our children but for us as parents. The families are all kind and welcoming.