There will be a new face leading the Academica Women’s Soccer Club of Turlock come 2024 as Trisha Gonzales was announced as their new head coach on Monday. Her hire comes after the organization’s Board of Directors decided to part ways with coach James Burns following a 2-9-1 finish in their inaugural season in the USL W League’s NorCal division.

“We’re excited to have Trisha as part of the club moving forward,” said General Manager Michael Rocha. “It’s tough to find someone with so many accolades such as the ones she has. We’re confident that her experience can translate well on the field." 

Gonzales was part of the inaugural women's soccer recruiting class at Pepperdine University, where she started for all four years. She played semi-professionally with the Cal Storm and the Silicon Valley Red Devils.

Following her playing career, Gonzales became the very first female to ever hold a Director of Coaching license from U.S. Soccer. Additionally, she holds a U.S. Soccer A License. She currently serves as the director of coaching for the Manteca Rangers youth club.

“The USL W League is an amazing opportunity for the women in the Valley that was never afforded to me as a player in the Central Valley. I believe my experience as a player and as a coach will help give these women an opportunity to not only develop and grow in their game, but to shine on the national stage in the USL W League,” Gonzales said.

Gonzales’ full coaching staff will be announced in the coming weeks.

“My players can expect a competitive training environment where I expect drive, hard work ethic, and motivation to improve their game to the next level. The players can expect open communication from the coaching staff and high level training sessions,” Gonzales said. “I came from the era where players play with a never give up attitude, have a strong work ethic, play with heart and are mentally tough. The Academica fans can expect the same mentality from this team in 2024.”