-
Wake Forest University (NC)
-
25 years
-
Qualified Private Coach
Passed Coach Course

James R.
JR7SOCCER.COM
Soccer
Background Check Verified
Learn MoreThis coach has passed an identification, basic background, and sex offender check.
Elite soccer coach and mentor committed to helping players raise their standards and take their game to the next level. View all coaching experience
This coach is unavailable to take clients at this time.
Training Locations
My training location only
-
Kids, Teenagers
-
Midfield, Forward, Defense
-
Goal Kicks, Throw-Ins, Shooting, Penalty Kicks, Passing, One-on-Ones, One-Touch, Heading, Free Kicks, First Touch, Dribbling, Crossing, Corner Kicks, Agility
Credentials
-
Wake Forest University (NC)
-
25 years
-
Qualified Private Coach
Passed Coach Course
Services
-
Kids, Teenagers
-
Midfield, Forward, Defense
-
Goal Kicks, Throw-Ins, Shooting, Penalty Kicks, Passing, One-on-Ones, One-Touch, Heading, Free Kicks, First Touch, Dribbling, Crossing, Corner Kicks, Agility
More About Coach James
With 11 years as a professional soccer player, a standout collegiate career, and a decade of elite coaching experience, I bring a unique perspective to developing the next generation of athletes. As a D1 college soccer player and MLS standout, I’ve gained the expertise to guide players to success, backed by coaching credentials that ensure actionable strategies for growth.
•USL League Two Head Coach: Preparing athletes for collegiate and professional success.
•ECNL Coach: Guiding top youth players in one of the nation’s most competitive leagues.
•EPD Coach: Mentoring regional standouts on their path to elite opportunities.
•US Soccer Director of Coaching License: Expert in building programs that drive player development.
•US Soccer B License: Elevating technical and tactical skills with advanced methods.
•United Soccer Coaches Director of Coaching Diploma: Specializing in tailored development plans for competitive youth players.
I combine my collegiate and professional playing experience with proven coaching expertise. I help your athlete sharpen technical skills and build high-performance habits to elevate their game. Together, we’ll unlock their full potential on and off the field.
As a former MLS pro and collegiate standout, I’ve achieved success at every level of soccer, fueled by dedication, preparation, and the right mindset.
•11-Year MLS Career: Played for top clubs, winning 6 championships and earning a reputation for excellence on and off the field.
•Wake Forest Soccer Captain: Led the team to the #1 NCAA Division I ranking and graduated with honors in just 3.5 years.
•2005 MLS SuperDraft: Selected 21st overall, demonstrating a commitment to competing at the highest level.
•Proven Leader: Served as a player union representative, advocating for teammates and driving performance standards.
•Sounders Legend: Recognized for contributions to Seattle Sounders FC, cementing a legacy of success.
My mission is to help aspiring players achieve their goals with proven strategies and a passion for excellence. Let’s take your athlete’s game to the next level!
ELITE SOCCER TRAINING & MENTORSHIP
For competitive players (Ages 10+) ready to accelerate their skills and gain a competitive edge.
PROGRAM HIGHLIGHTS:
•Technical Skills: Master ball control, first touch, and precision with TOCA Training and targeted drills.
•Speed of Play & Decision-Making: Train to think and act faster under pressure.
•Tactical Awareness: Improve positioning, strategy, and anticipation.
•Defensive Principles: Gain confidence in 1v1 defending, recovery, and positioning.
•SAQs (Speed, Agility, Quickness): Enhance explosive power and reaction time.
•Game Scenarios: Sharpen competitiveness and confidence with small-sided and 1v1 games.
ADDITIONAL FOCUS AREAS:
•The Training App: 24/7 access to elite development tools, training programs, and a supportive soccer community.
•Nutrition: Strategies to fuel peak performance and enhance recovery.
•Mental Training: Develop focus, resilience, and confidence on and off the field.
Equip your player with the tools to stand out and elevate their game. Let’s make it happen!
Action Photos
Client Reviews
Ariya (CoachUp client)
It was good and helpful for me.
Karla (CoachUp client)
Coach James has an excellent training program both on the field and nutritionwise. It's a great package.
James (CoachUp client)
Coach James is great coach, experienced professional.my son very happy with him training.
Helena (CoachUp client)
(no details provided)
Jennifer (CoachUp client)
(no details provided)
Xingchi (CoachUp client)
Great coach with good strategy in coaching soccer. James is very dedicated in helping kids success. Love how he is willing to customize based on kids’ progress.
Jon (CoachUp client)
(no details provided)
Thomas (CoachUp client)
My daughter had a great time.
Sabrina (CoachUp client)
Great training session! The boys really enjoyed it.
Richard (CoachUp client)
Coach James is great! Kids learned a lot from him.
Eric (CoachUp client)
(no details provided)
Joe (CoachUp client)
Training with Coach James was a fantastic experience for my two daughters. He was upbeat, encouraging, and fun. He focused on the fundamentals, including footwork and kicking technique, in a motivational way. He even played great music during the session. Highly recommended.
Brian (CoachUp client)
We are receiving world-class training by James. I'm extremely impressed with the attention to detail and high quality of training, information, and motivation my daughter is receiving from James. I highly recommend James as a trainer for beginner, intermediate, and expert soccer players.
Min (CoachUp client)
Coach James was great. Patient, instructive, and what can I say - the man knows how to play soccer! He was a pro for over a decade. PS - he didn't pay me to write this message. He's a good guy.
Peter (CoachUp client)
Coach James was excellent with my son. He was friendly and professional and a great motivator. Focus was on technical skills and my son got a lot out of the session. Will book again.
Troy (CoachUp client)
Coach James is in a league of his own. Without reservation one of the best trainers we've had the pleasure of working with.
Nuala (CoachUp client)
(no details provided)
Charles (CoachUp client)
Coach James was perfect for our son. He trained with James in a number of different settings. Some private and some in groups. James h pled him with his skills and with his mental game. he connects well with us he kids and shares his passion and positivity.
Bill (CoachUp client)
Coach James was great my son enjoyed the training session I highly recommend his training and his positive approach to coaching.
Sheila (CoachUp client)
Coach James is a great coach. From a parents point of view, so easy to deal with, quick with responses and very thorough. My son had a great experience and really enjoyed the training.
Paul (CoachUp client)
(no details provided)
Candace (CoachUp client)
(no details provided)
Robert (CoachUp client)
Coach James was fantastic with my 9 year old son. He can't wait for his next session. If you're looking for the best you've found him!
Rich (CoachUp client)
Awesome session. The boys loved it!!!
Kara (CoachUp client)
I think the fact that my son fell sleep clutching the autographed picture of James that he gave my kids, says it all! The kids love him. He is fun, supportive, and obviously knowledgeable and passionate about soccer.
Mimi (CoachUp client)
My son and his friends had an excellent first session with Coach James. He is very skilled in what he does. His practice is very well thought out. Can't wait for the next session. I would definitely recommend Coach James to anyone.
Josh (CoachUp client)
Would highly recommend James. He brings great enthusiasm, knowledge, skill and personality to his coaching sessions. It is unusual to have the opportunity to work one on one with someone of his experience and caliber. My son recently had his first session with James - he thoroughly enjoyed it, learned a lot - and looks forward to working with James consistently.
Jenny D. / JR7 SOCCER Parent (Testimonial)
Outstanding program. James has a winning mindset that translates to his teams and JR7 athletes. Truly an inspirational leader!
Carrie M. / JR7 SOCCER Parent (Testimonial)
James’ program develops the player mentally and physically. Players utilizing his proven formula will see great growth and improvement on their game!
Shea A. / JR7 SOCCER Player (Testimonial)
James is not only a great coach but also a fantastic human being who really cares about your growth as a player and person. Working with James is unique because he focuses on other things, like getting your mindset right to reach top performance. I would strongly recommend James Riley if you are looking to play at the next level.
Cristian C. / JR7 SOCCER Player (Testimonial)
One thing that makes JR7 Soccer a unique experience is that you learn so much and that even the simplest detail matter so much, especially in the long run. I would 100% recommend JR7 Soccer to any aspiring college player who wants to reach they're full potential and play at next level. JR7 Soccer isn't only soccer training, your are taught how to be the best version of yourself on and off the field. Building good habits and routines that will only set you up for success. I've benefitted so much from JR7 Soccer and it's helped me get to where I am today.
Troy S. / JR7 SOCCER Parent (Testimonial)
JR7 is the best of the best!
Josh L. / JR7 SOCCER Player (Testimonial)
It was an absolute privilege to work with coach James Riley. Even at the age of 20 when I started with him, my development skyrocketed, and I improved so much going into each of my collegiate seasons. He cares so much about the development of his players, but also as young men. He helped build habits and routines that benefited my soccer ability but also my life outside of soccer. In addition, his knowledge and networking in college recruiting is so impactful in helping his players find a school that is the right fit for them. Professional all around, and I am so thankful to have been able to work with him.
Andrew M. / JR7 SOCCER Player (Testimonial)
James Riley goes above and beyond the expectations of a typical soccer coach through his attention to detail and holistic approach to the game. He facilitates a player's technical, tactical, physical, and mental development through his one-on-one and small group training sessions. Everything from the warmup to cool down is done with the utmost intention and diligence. His coaching style brings the best out of you on the field while pushing you to reach your potential.
Michael D. / JR7 SOCCER Parent (Testimonial)
Fantastic experience. The quality and intensity of the training helped our son perform well during his ID camps and equipped him with the ability to meet the high demands, both athletic and academic, as a collegiate soccer player. James was instrumental throughout the entire process. We look forward to working with him again.
Tracy H. / JR7 SOCCER Parent (Testimonial)
James is such an outstanding mentor for our son! Not just soccer but overall a great role model. We started a few months back and we can already see a difference in our son’s performance both on and off the pitch! His trainings and mentorship have made such a positive impact!
Dan & Erin Redwine / Founders of Redwine Soccer (Testimonial)
What JR7 Soccer represents goes far beyond technical and tactical training; James Riley has the experience, passion, and detailed approach to coaching that we wish we would have had growing up as players and what we hope for as parents with kids playing soccer. The knowledge that James has to offer in terms of nutrition, mental toughness, focus, and self-motivation will allow players to build a foundation that will last a lifetime. The Seattle soccer community is getting a huge boost. We’re proud to supporters of JR7 Soccer.
Steve Zakuani / #1 Draft in the 2009 MLS Super Draft and Former Teammate with the Seattle Sounders (Testimonial)
The main thing I learned from being James’ team mate for 3 years was how to be a professional and how to pay attention to detail. Getting to the top of a profession is hard, but staying there is even harder. Watching James up close on a daily basis showed me the dedication, energy, and focus it took to remain at the top.
Peter Fewing / Seattle University Head Men's Soccer Coach (Testimonial)
I am a huge James Riley fan, his playing career was terrific, long and successful, but for me it is his off the field involvement, and example of character, professionalism, dedication and kindness that impressed me the most. I can’t say enough great things about James, and I am excited for the impact his future holds in our community and beyond.
Bobby Muuss / Wake Forest University Head Men's Soccer Coach (Testimonial)
The Wake Forest University Men's Soccer Family is rooted in the belief that: Winning People Make Winning Players And Winning Players Make Winning Teams. In my opinion, James is the true definition of a WINNER on and off the field.
Bruce Arena/U.S. Men's National Team Head Coach (Testimonial)
We are pleased to add James Riley to our roster, said LA Galaxy Head Coach and General Manager Bruce Arena. “James is an experienced player who adds versatility and depth to our defensive core. I was hesitant about putting him in that early in the game,” Galaxy head coach Bruce Arena said. “The thinking was he probably would have to come out in the second half at some point, but he hung in there. That’s terrific. He’s worked real hard to come back from that surgery and that injury. To be able to give us 75 minutes or so on a night when we needed it was big. That’s all part of the story with your team. You’ve got to call on everyone on this squad and James stepped up and did his job today.
Share This Coach
CoachUp's Got Your Back
- Runs Sex Offender screening on every coach
- Ensures high quality coaches with verified reviews
- 100% money back guarantee
- Offers 24/7 support and helpful Athlete Advisors
- Easy payments via credit card, no need for cash
- Provides convenient scheduling with calendar integration
- Enables automated reminders before training sessions
- Captures post-session feedback directly from your coach