Directors

Katie Ritchie- Director of Soccer

Katie Ritchie brings extensive experience across the professional and youth soccer landscape. A former professional player, Katie has worked at the highest levels of the women’s game, including serving as an NWSL Scout and holding roles with San Diego Wave FC, where she contributed to player identification, evaluation, and development within a high-performance environment.

With a strong background in talent identification and program building, Katie combines firsthand professional playing experience with a deep understanding of the modern player pathway. She is passionate about raising standards, creating clear development environments, and helping players reach their full potential at every stage of the game.

Fun Fact—The unicorn is the national animal of Scotland 

Mike Whiitaker - girls ECNL DIRECTOR/girls college director

Mike Whittaker is a USSF “A” Licensed coach with over 20 years of experience developing top-level teams and players. His coaching achievements include leading the 2019 GU13 squad to a USYS National Championship and mentoring numerous athletes who have gone on to play at top Division 1 programs. As the Director of Soccer, Mike is committed to fostering a culture of growth, competitiveness, and love for the game, ensuring players at every level receive the guidance needed to excel. Beyond soccer, he loves supporting his kids’ performances in theatre and sports.

Fun fact—did you know sea otters hold hands while sleeping to keep from drifting apart? It’s called rafting!

Davor Gazivoda - Director of Recreational/Boys socal director

Davor has been an integral part of Legends FC San Diego for eight years, leading the Recreational program for the past four. Originally from Serbia, he played at top youth clubs before earning a soccer scholarship to Southern Nazarene University in Oklahoma, where he graduated in 2005 with a degree in Kinesiology and Sports Management. Holding a USSF “B” National License, Davor is passionate about creating an environment where young players can develop a love for the game through structured development and the right level of challenge.

Fun Fact—Davor was offered senior discount way ahead of time.

Sean Willaims - Girls socal Director

Sean brings a wealth of playing and coaching experience to Legends FC San Diego. A former player for San Diego Zest (USL League 2) and Point Loma Nazarene University (NCAA D2), he has transitioned into coaching at both the collegiate and club levels. Currently pursuing his USSF “B” License, Sean serves as the Goalkeeper Coach at San Diego State University and previously held the same role at the University of San Diego. Since 2018, he has been a key figure in player development as a head coach with DMCV Sharks and Legends FCSD. Passionate about shaping athletes on and off the field, Sean is committed to fostering both skill and character in his players.

Fun fact— Sean is a proud Canadian citizen!

Rowan Adams - Boys ECNL-RL Director

With nearly 30 years of experience in coaching and sports leadership, Rowan has dedicated his career to developing young athletes and shaping soccer programs. He has served as a head coach for schoolboy teams at King’s College and U12-U17 teams at Three Kings United FC (now Auckland United), as well as working with tournament teams for Auckland Football and regional talent centers with New Zealand Football. Holding a NZ Football National Academy Coaching Licence and English FA Youth Award Modules 1 and 2, he is passionate about guiding players to reach their full potential, both on and off the field. Rowan has coached players who have gone on to play professionally, represent their countries, and compete in World Cups. His love for the game continues to grow as he inspires athletes, builds relationships, and embraces new challenges every day.

Fun Fact—Originally from New Zealand, he once raced go-karts but now navigates American freeways.