Jata Soccer

Coach Jata was born and raised in Port Richey, Florida. Since he was 5 years old, he dreamed about becoming a professional soccer player. As a child, Coach Jata would work on his soccer skills and physical abilities hours upon hours each day. He practiced eating healthy, formed a strong mental mindset, and was always determined to progress to the next level.

Coach Jata excelled at soccer in high school and was able to attend college at Campbell University on a full soccer scholarship. During his time at Campbell, he continued to shine and thus received many accolades because of his success on the field. His most precious honor was his selection as an All-American, which meant that he was one of the best Division 1 college soccer players in the country at that time. In 2009, Coach Jata was drafted by the Chicago Fire (MLS), and then he later played a season with the Wilmington Hammerheads (USL) in 2011.

Coach Jata decided to hang up his boots in 2012 and was led into his current career as a Health & Physical Education Teacher. He works at Rose Hill-Magnolia Elementary School where he is passionate about teaching children and young adults how to live healthy and physically active lifestyles. Coach Jata also enjoys sharing his love and knowledge of soccer with others. He offers clinics and private/team soccer lessons throughout the year. This summer he launched his company, “Jata Soccer”, which is getting ready for their first annual summer soccer camp in August.

Coach Jata lives in Beulaville with his wife, Laura Ashley, and their daughters, Shelby Victoria and Sandy Grace. He is a devoted member of Grace Covenent Church and is a leader in their Celebrate Recovery Program. He also works with the East Duplin Soccer Club and the East Duplin High School Soccer Team.