Director of Coaching

College: 1995-1999
Professional: 2000-2002

Coach Roufs has established himself as a distinguished figure in the world of soccer, leaving an indelible mark on the field and finding his true calling in coaching. With an illustrious career as a player, including holding the record for most career goals and career points at Azusa Pacific University for over 20+ years, he garnered attention from semi-professional teams and ultimately secured a spot on a professional team as a walk-on. However, it was in the realm of coaching that Coach Roufs discovered his true passion.

At the age of 19, Coach Roufs embarked on his coaching journey, leading a Junior Varsity team to their first-ever championship victory, etching his name in the school's history books. This accomplishment catapulted him into the limelight as a highly sought-after coach in Southern California, North Carolina, and currently in Nashville. His unwavering dedication lies in ensuring that players not only thrive and reach their full potential on the field but also flourish in their personal lives. 

Coach Roufs places great emphasis on education alongside athletic performance, believing in the power of holistic development. He strives to mold players who can excel under pressure, adapt to challenging situations, and thrive amidst stress. With over 22 years of coaching experience, his expertise extends far beyond borders. Coach Roufs has ventured to Kenya, Uganda, Mexico, Guatemala, and El Salvador, where he has trained and established successful youth programs.

Under his guidance, numerous players have achieved remarkable milestones, earning accolades such as MVPs, top goal scorers, tournament champions, and All-Conference players. Coach Roufs possesses a profound understanding of the game and recognizes the paramount importance of proper player development. He champions a holistic approach that focuses on the integration of mind, body, and technique, enabling players to harness the full potential of both the left and right sides of their bodies.

As a passionate mentor and holistic developer, Coach Roufs continues to inspire and guide aspiring soccer stars. His commitment to fostering personal growth and nurturing well-rounded individuals both on and off the field makes him an exceptional coach and mentor. With an unwavering dedication to his craft and an innate understanding of the game, Coach Roufs strives to leave a lasting impact on the lives of his players, shaping them into not only exceptional athletes but also remarkable individuals.

Technical Director

Ryan Roberts, former MLB “Fan Favorite,” who most notably played for the Arizona Diamondbacks and helped lead them from “worst to first,” now invests in the next generation. In addition to being our Director of Advancement, Ryan assists our coaching staff after acquiring his coaching license, specializing in strength and conditioning at training sessions. He is involved in several sports, working individually with the kids to help them develop their skills and, more importantly—something Ryan knows a great deal about—a great mental attitude that will help them overcome the many obstacles life has to offer. Ryan’s capacity to empower young people with his vast experience in the study of teamwork is invaluable. He is passionate about building character and confidence in the individuals and teams that he works with so that, on or off the field, they have the endurance and heart to offer the world in front of them.

Head of Girls Academy Development

Growing up in Honolulu, HI, Elizabeth Kagay (Kalama) found a passion for athletics  that translated into developing as a multi-sport athlete throughout her youth. Surfing, volleyball, basketball, softball, track and field, you name it, Elizabeth loved it. She ultimately found her athleticism flourish best on the soccer pitch, and developed a love for the game that has surpassed her playing career, and now finds herself at NFC as our Girl’s Program Lead Coach. Elizabeth’s passion is the accessibility for young girls and their development in youth soccer. Her coaching philosophy revolves around nurturing exceptional technical skills, tactical intelligence, and a profound understanding of the game while prioritizing inclusivity and creating a supportive environment for continuous growth. With over 30 years of playing and coaching experience, Elizabeth’s gifts in fostering player development and their holistic growth  is a vital asset to our coaching staff here at NFC. 

Club Administrator 

As a Southern California native, Stephanie Bartlett (Cates) is no stranger to the world of competitive youth soccer. Her playing career included multiple high level youth clubs, including Arsenal FC (now Sporting Cali Club), and 4 years at the collegiate level, playing for Point Loma Nazarene University at the NAIA level. She held the all time single season scoring and assist records at San Dimas High School (2003), where she later returned to coach and give back to their girls soccer program. Stephanie transplanted to Nashville, TN in 2008, and continued coaching for local schools, clubs, and soccer programs throughout the Nashville area. While coaching, she worked for over a decade as a manager and administrator for one of Nashville’s leading event companies. Currently, Stephanie is one of NFC’s lead club administrators, using her experience in nonprofit and for profit administration. Her passion is to provide an accessible, healthy, and enjoyable experience for young athletes (and their families!) to holistically develop through the game of soccer. 

Academy Director

Heather Maute is a dedicated and accomplished coach, hailing from Springfield, OH, and now based here in Nashville, TN. With experience coaching youth soccer since 2014, Heather's coaching style emphasizes a player-centric approach, focusing on the development of technical skills, interpersonal skills, awareness of the field, and the overall holistic development of young athletes. Heather spent her college career with Trevecca Nazarene University, and her youth club career with Ohio Galaxies FC. She currently head coaches in our Academy Program, and assists our 2011 Boys. Her dedication to shaping young athletes both on and off the field has made her a remarkable mentor in the soccer community.

Director of Operations

Andrew Bartlett has been with NFC since day one, playing a key role in shaping the club’s mission and day-to-day operations. As the director of operations, he oversees logistics, club programming, and long-term planning to ensure every player and family has a top-tier experience.

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Andrew brings over 15 years of experience in business administration and has spent more than a decade in youth, middle school, high school, and college sports. His passion for community and player development is backed by a master’s degree in community development and a deep commitment to building inclusive, high-performing environments.