By USF Soccer Strengthens Local Roots Through New Coaching Staff and Florida Premier Partnership
New Coaches Bring Winning Pedigree to Tampa
The University of South Florida men’s soccer program enters the 2026 season with fresh momentum, both on the field and in the community.
Head Coach George Kiefer has finalized his coaching staff with the additions of Associate Head Coach Daniel De Oliveira and Assistant Coach AJ Madero. Both arrive from Grand Canyon University, where they helped lead the Lopes to a Western Athletic Conference championship and an NCAA Sweet 16 appearance in 2025. Their success earned the coaching staff the United Soccer Coaches Far West Region Staff of the Year honor.
A Tampa Native Returns Home
For Madero, the move to USF is more than a career opportunity – it’s a homecoming.
A Tampa native, Madero returns to the area after nearly 20 years away, bringing experience from Grand Canyon, NC State, UT Rio Grande Valley, the U.S. Virgin Islands National Team, and the RGV Toros Academy. Throughout his coaching career, he has helped develop dozens of professional players while guiding teams to multiple NCAA Tournament appearances and conference championship matches.
Building Soccer in the Community
The connection between USF and the local soccer community was on full display last week when Madero led the USF Youth Soccer Camp at Wiregrass Ranch in Wesley Chapel. The fields are home to Florida Premier FC, which partnered with USF earlier this year to expand youth soccer opportunities in the Tampa Bay region.
Following the camp, Madero spoke with families about player development in Florida, the significance of adapting to the state’s demanding climate, and the opportunities available for junior athletes who aspire to play at the collegiate level. He also encouraged players and parents to support the Bulls throughout the upcoming season and experience college soccer firsthand.
Looking Ahead
USF opens its regular season on Thursday, Aug. 20, hosting Winthrop at Corbett Stadium.
Beyond preparing for another competitive campaign, the Bulls are investing in relationships throughout the Tampa Bay soccer community. Through partnerships like Florida Premier and youth outreach events, USF is creating more opportunities for young players to connect with collegiate coaches, student-athletes, and one of the state’s top soccer programs.
