GORDON NAMED MARAUDER MEN'S SOCCER HEAD COACH

Antelope Valley College has named Charles Gordon Jr. as the new Men's Soccer Head Coach. Gordon has served as the head coach for Marauder Women's Soccer for the past four seasons, and will now lead both programs. "With great work ethic and professionalism, I look forward to embracing the role of head coach for both the Antelope Antelope College men's and women's soccer programs," said Gordon.

The Marauders finished last season with a 7-5-8 record. "Both programs will mirror each other's efforts with character and integrity as the student/athletes pursue their goals while upholding the mission and vision of the college," added coach Gordon.

Coach Gordon graduated with an AA degree from Antelope Valley College, a Bachelor's degree in Kinesiology from California State University Northridge, a Professional Teaching Credential from California State University Bakersfield, and a Master's Degree in Coaching and Athletic Administration from Concordia University Irvine. During his years as a student-athlete, he captained the Division 1 California State University Matador Soccer Team, where he also earned repeating Most Valuable Player and All-Tournament Team accolades. He earned All-Conference honors as a football player at Antelope Valley College. Gordon stood out as a prominent athlete at Chatsworth High School, where he accumulated recognition as team captain, Most Valuable Player, and All-League honors.

Coach Gordon's goal of guiding the Marauder Soccer Program with positive growth that ultimately focuses on the advancement of each individual involved was quickly recognized. With a continued emphasis on character, professionalism, and adhering to the program mission, vision, philosophy and core values, the Marauder's Women's Soccer Program secured its first Western State East Conference Championship in program history in the 2018 season. That success was achieved through a foundation that saw Coach Gordon's first season of leadership focused on building upon the established culture and environment. With structured and organized expectations, the results were tremendous and led to the team enjoying a successful 2017 season where the Women Marauders won their first playoff game in program history. Throughout Coach Gordon's tenure as the Head Coach of the Women's Marauder Soccer Program, the team has been highly active in building positive community relationships. The team helps in feeding the less fortunate, spends time with the elderly, supports Veteran's Awareness, Breast Cancer Awareness, Leukemia Awareness, and Suicide Awareness. They are involved with local youth soccer organizations, conduct free youth camps, promote tournaments, and have established a strong Jr. Marauders Program, etc.

Additionally, Coach Gordon's extensive coaching background includes being honored with the CCCAA Western State East Coach of the Year Award. He founded and has directed the California Elite Soccer Club of the Antelope Valley since 2006, where his focus is on developing the valley's youth. He has guided numerous teams to championship titles, including some of the more prominent successes such as earning the prestigious Coast Soccer League Cup Championship, a State Cup Championship, a Regional Championship, a National Championship and an Excellence in Coaching Award presented by Nike and the Cal South Youth Soccer Organization. He has served as head coach for the Quartz Hill High School Girls Soccer Program, where he's developed players who have moved on to all levels of the game while accumulating nine Golden League championships. As well, he has been selected as a High Desert All-Star Coach perennially and has been nominated multiple times to represent the Southern Section as a CIF All-Star Coach.
Coach Gordon's dedication and commitment to success are apparent, and the Women's Marauder Soccer Program and Student/Athletes have thrived under his leadership. He focuses his efforts on providing an educational and athletic experience that benefits the "Whole Player." Thus, players will better develop the understanding of true success, as-well-as enjoy a positive, fun-filled collegiate experience.
Coach Charles Gordon and his family reside in the Antelope Valley.

Both soccer program will begin in Fall 2020. " I am excited to be a positive role model who helps these young men and women learn valuable lessons and achieve their goals in life... I look forward to guiding these talented athletes throughout the year as we will work diligently to represent Antelope Valley College, Marauder Athletics, and our community to the best of our ability," stated coach Gordon.