Danny BillsSporting Director

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Biography
A Colorado native, Danny grew up playing for Northglenn Thunder, Colorado Rush, and Horizon High School before continuing his soccer career at the University of New Mexico and Metro State University. There, he played collegiate soccer and earned a bachelor’s degree in Human Performance and Sport with a minor in Marketing. With over 20 years…
A Colorado native, Danny grew up playing for Northglenn Thunder, Colorado Rush, and Horizon High School before continuing his soccer career at the University of New Mexico and Metro State University. There, he played collegiate soccer and earned a bachelor’s degree in Human Performance and Sport with a minor in Marketing.
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With over 20 years of coaching and technical director experience, Danny has shaped the development of both boys’ and girls’ teams at the ECNL, MLS Next, and collegiate levels. A USSF “A” License holder, he has played a key role in youth soccer leadership, serving as the MLS Next Conference Chairman and a member of both the MLS Next and USLW Executive Committees. His dedication to the game continues to drive its growth at the highest levels of youth soccer.
Outside of soccer, Danny enjoys spending time with his family, attending sporting events, and exploring the outdoors. He, his wife Jenni, and their three children—Brian, Megan, and Brianna—are excited to be part of the CRYS family and look forward to making a positive impact in the community.
Sean BaumannHead Coach

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Biography
Originally from Illinois, Sean played Division I soccer at Southern Illinois University Edwardsville (SIUE) before continuing his career at the professional level. His passion for the game led him to Sweden, where he spent two years playing professionally before making Colorado his home in 2018. With a USSF A License and a USSF C License…
Originally from Illinois, Sean played Division I soccer at Southern Illinois University Edwardsville (SIUE) before continuing his career at the professional level. His passion for the game led him to Sweden, where he spent two years playing professionally before making Colorado his home in 2018.
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With a USSF A License and a USSF C License Coach Educator certification, Sean brings a wealth of knowledge and experience to the field. Beyond his credentials, he is known for fostering strong, lasting relationships with players, staff, and the broader soccer community.
Throughout his career, Sean has worn many hats—including coach, director of coaches, director of soccer operations, and most recently, USL general manager. Now, he’s excited to bring his expertise and energy to Colorado Storm, helping to develop the next generation of players and positively impact the communities they represent.
Tom PooleHead Coach

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Biography
Tom brings a wealth of experience to his role as Head Coach of our USLW National Finalists, having guided ECNL girls to back-to-back National Final Fours, including a National Runner-Up finish in 2022. An experienced Director of Coaching and Manager of High Performance, he has coached extensively at the elite level on both the boys’…
Tom brings a wealth of experience to his role as Head Coach of our USLW National Finalists, having guided ECNL girls to back-to-back National Final Fours, including a National Runner-Up finish in 2022. An experienced Director of Coaching and Manager of High Performance, he has coached extensively at the elite level on both the boys’ and girls’ sides.
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Tom earned his master’s degree from Regis University, where he also contributed to the men’s soccer program as an assistant coach. His coaching journey has taken him to the NCAA Division I and Regional ODP levels, and he currently holds a UEFA ‘A’ License, along with multiple prestigious certifications, including the United Soccer Coaches Advanced National, Premier, Director of Coaching, and Sport Performance Diplomas.
In 2019, Tom was recognized as one of the top young coaches in North America when he was selected for the United Soccer Coaches 30-Under-30 program. Now, he is excited to bring his expertise and passion to Colorado Storm, continuing to develop top talent and elevate the game.
Danny BillsHead Coach

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Biography
A Colorado native, Danny grew up playing for Northglenn Thunder, Colorado Rush, and Horizon High School before continuing his soccer career at the University of New Mexico and Metro State University. There, he played collegiate soccer and earned a bachelor’s degree in Human Performance and Sport with a minor in Marketing. With over 20 years…
A Colorado native, Danny grew up playing for Northglenn Thunder, Colorado Rush, and Horizon High School before continuing his soccer career at the University of New Mexico and Metro State University. There, he played collegiate soccer and earned a bachelor’s degree in Human Performance and Sport with a minor in Marketing.
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With over 20 years of coaching and technical director experience, Danny has worked with both boys’ and girls’ teams at the ECNL, MLS Next, and collegiate levels. He holds a USSF “A” License and has recently served as the MLS Next Conference Chairman and as a member of the MLS Next Executive Committee, contributing to the growth and development of the game at the highest youth levels.
Outside of soccer, Danny enjoys spending time with his family, attending sporting events, and exploring the outdoors. He, his wife Jenni, and their three children—Brian, Megan, and Brianna—are excited to be part of the CRYS family and look forward to making a positive impact in the community.
Jeff OleckOperating Officer

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Biography
Jeff Oleck has been a dedicated member of the Colorado youth soccer community for almost ten years after spending a decade in the college game. Originally from Indianapolis, Indiana, his coaching journey began on the collegiate side, with experience at Northwestern University, Valparaiso University, and Wabash College. Alongside his collegiate roles, Jeff also made a…
Jeff Oleck has been a dedicated member of the Colorado youth soccer community for almost ten years after spending a decade in the college game. Originally from Indianapolis, Indiana, his coaching journey began on the collegiate side, with experience at Northwestern University, Valparaiso University, and Wabash College. Alongside his collegiate roles, Jeff also made a lasting impact in youth development, serving as a coaching and goalkeeping director for programs such as Team Evanston, NWI United, Dynamo FC, and Indiana ODP.
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Jeff’s passion for coaching stems from a desire to help each player discover their potential – both on and off the field – using soccer as a tool for personal growth and life-enriching experiences. To that end, he also oversees the Colorado Rapids Youth Soccer Club International Program which aims to foster holistic player and personal development by immersing young players in the “beautiful game” around the world.
A Valparaiso University graduate, Jeff earned a B.A. in Biology with a Business Administration minor in 2006, followed by an M.S. in Sports Administration in 2011. He holds the USSF National “A” License, UEFA “C” License, and USC Advanced National Goalkeeper Diploma, further showcasing his commitment to coaching excellence.
Sean BaumannAssistant Coach

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Biography
Originally from Illinois, Sean played Division I soccer at Southern Illinois University Edwardsville (SIUE) before continuing his career at the professional level. His passion for the game led him to Sweden, where he spent two years playing professionally before making Colorado his home in 2018. With a USSF A License and a USSF C License…
Originally from Illinois, Sean played Division I soccer at Southern Illinois University Edwardsville (SIUE) before continuing his career at the professional level. His passion for the game led him to Sweden, where he spent two years playing professionally before making Colorado his home in 2018.
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With a USSF A License and a USSF C License Coach Educator certification, Sean brings a wealth of knowledge and experience to the field. Beyond his credentials, he is known for fostering strong, lasting relationships with players, staff, and the broader soccer community.
Throughout his career, Sean has worn many hats—including coach, director of coaches, director of soccer operations, and most recently, USL general manager. Now, he’s excited to bring his expertise and energy to Colorado Storm, helping to develop the next generation of players and positively impact the communities they represent.
Daniel AgnewAssistant Coach

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Biography
Originally from Northern Ireland, Daniel began his playing career with Ballymena United Football Club in the Northern Ireland Football League’s (NIFL) professional development phase before continuing at Ashford University, a nationally ranked men’s soccer program in Iowa. With coaching experience spanning grassroots to elite youth levels—including work within Major League Soccer (MLS) Academy—Daniel plays a…
Originally from Northern Ireland, Daniel began his playing career with Ballymena United Football Club in the Northern Ireland Football League’s (NIFL) professional development phase before continuing at Ashford University, a nationally ranked men’s soccer program in Iowa.
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With coaching experience spanning grassroots to elite youth levels—including work within Major League Soccer (MLS) Academy—Daniel plays a key role in identifying and developing top young talent in Colorado. His focus is on ensuring a seamless transition for players to compete at the next level, both regionally and nationally.
A lifelong student of the game, Daniel’s dedication to education extends beyond the field. Holding a master’s degree, he continues his professional development through multiple governing bodies, including UEFA and USSF. His commitment to coaching excellence was recognized when he was selected for the 2023-24 United Soccer Coaches 30-Under-30 program—an elite education and mentorship initiative supporting the next generation of top coaches.
Michael BalogunAssociate Head Coach

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Biography
Born in Lagos, Nigeria, Michael moved to Houston with his family at a young age. While playing for local club Houstonians, he progressed through the Olympic Development Program (ODP) ranks, ultimately earning the opportunity to represent the United States at the U17 National Team level. He spent two years in the prestigious Residency Program in…
Born in Lagos, Nigeria, Michael moved to Houston with his family at a young age. While playing for local club Houstonians, he progressed through the Olympic Development Program (ODP) ranks, ultimately earning the opportunity to represent the United States at the U17 National Team level. He spent two years in the prestigious Residency Program in Bradenton, Florida, further honing his skills.
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Michael continued his soccer journey at the University of Akron, where he was part of the Zips’ NCAA Division I National Championship-winning team in 2010. After his playing career, he transitioned into coaching, working with elite teams at some of the top clubs in the Houston area.
Soccer runs deep in the Balogun household, as both Michael and his wife are passionate coaches. Now, he brings his wealth of experience and love for the game to continue shaping the next generation of players.
Sean BaumannDirector of Operations

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Biography
Originally from Illinois, Sean played Division I soccer at Southern Illinois University Edwardsville (SIUE) before continuing his career at the professional level. His passion for the game led him to Sweden, where he spent two years playing professionally before making Colorado his home in 2018. With a USSF A License and a USSF C License…
Originally from Illinois, Sean played Division I soccer at Southern Illinois University Edwardsville (SIUE) before continuing his career at the professional level. His passion for the game led him to Sweden, where he spent two years playing professionally before making Colorado his home in 2018.
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With a USSF A License and a USSF C License Coach Educator certification, Sean brings a wealth of knowledge and experience to the field. Beyond his credentials, he is known for fostering strong, lasting relationships with players, staff, and the broader soccer community.
Throughout his career, Sean has worn many hats—including coach, director of coaches, director of soccer operations, and most recently, USL general manager. Now, he’s excited to bring his expertise and energy to Colorado Storm, helping to develop the next generation of players and positively impact the communities they represent.
Jay NeedhamAssistant Coach & Performance Director

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Biography
Jay Needham, a former professional soccer player from Fort Worth, Texas, had a standout collegiate career at Southern Methodist University (SMU). As a unanimous First Team All-American and Hermann Trophy finalist, he captained the 2005 team to the College Cup (Final Four). Selected 32nd overall by D.C. United in the 2007 MLS SuperDraft, Needham went…
Jay Needham, a former professional soccer player from Fort Worth, Texas, had a standout collegiate career at Southern Methodist University (SMU). As a unanimous First Team All-American and Hermann Trophy finalist, he captained the 2005 team to the College Cup (Final Four).
Selected 32nd overall by D.C. United in the 2007 MLS SuperDraft, Needham went on to play professionally for eight years across Norway, the United States, and Puerto Rico. His career included multiple appearances in the CONCACAF Champions League and experience in various club competitions. In recognition of his achievements, he was inducted into the SMU Athletics Hall of Fame in 2020.
Since 2022, Needham has served as the Rapids Elite Program Director of Sports Performance. He is currently working toward his U.S. Soccer B-License, continuing his commitment to player development and high-performance training.
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Michael LindAssistant Coach

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Biography
Michael Lind is the current Head Coach of the Colorado Rapids U16 ECNL team and serves as an assistant coach for the U13 Academy team. A Denver, Colorado native, he brings over 12 years of experience in youth soccer development. He is currently pursuing his UEFA A coaching license and a Master’s degree in Coaching…
Michael Lind is the current Head Coach of the Colorado Rapids U16 ECNL team and serves as an assistant coach for the U13 Academy team. A Denver, Colorado native, he brings over 12 years of experience in youth soccer development. He is currently pursuing his UEFA A coaching license and a Master’s degree in Coaching from the University of South Wales.
Over the course of his career, Lind has held coaching positions at top Colorado clubs, including Real Colorado, Boulder, and Edge Soccer Clubs. He has coached across elite national platforms such as the U.S. Soccer Development Academy (DA), MLS NEXT, USL Academy League, and ECNL. As a player, he developed through the Colorado Storm system.
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Joe NascoGoalkeeping Coach

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Biography
Joe Nasco brings a wealth of goalkeeping experience at all levels, from Club to Pro. With a passion for the sport and a dedication to developing young athletes, Joe is an invaluable addition to Colorado Storm. During his five-year professional career, Joe played for our fellow community member team, the Colorado Rapids. In 2014, he…
Joe Nasco brings a wealth of goalkeeping experience at all levels, from Club to Pro. With a passion for the sport and a dedication to developing young athletes, Joe is an invaluable addition to Colorado Storm. During his five-year professional career, Joe played for our fellow community member team, the Colorado Rapids. In 2014, he even set an MLS record—though perhaps not the one he was aiming for! Joe holds the title for the Fastest Red Card in MLS history, earning it just 34 seconds into the match. But don’t worry—he has assured us he won’t be passing that particular technique on to our athletes!
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We’re thrilled to have Joe on board and can’t wait to see the impact he’ll have on our goalkeepers and the club’s future.
Brittain RademacherGoalkeeping Coach

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Biography
Originally from Upstate New York, Brittain Rademacher has built an extensive career in soccer, blending her experiences as a player and coach to make a significant impact on the development of young athletes. A graduate of East Stroudsburg University in Pennsylvania, she played all four years and went on to compete semi-professionally in the WPSL…
Originally from Upstate New York, Brittain Rademacher has built an extensive career in soccer, blending her experiences as a player and coach to make a significant impact on the development of young athletes. A graduate of East Stroudsburg University in Pennsylvania, she played all four years and went on to compete semi-professionally in the WPSL for four seasons on the East Coast.
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Following her playing career, Brittain transitioned into coaching, dedicating five years to the New York Red Bulls, where she was part of the inaugural Pre-Academy Girls Red Bull Teams. Her coaching journey continued in Orlando with Montverde Academy, where she served as the Goalkeeping Director and Assistant Coach, helping lead the program to two Florida State High School Championships.
Brittain’s next stop was Houston, where she spent three years as the Director of Goalkeeping for the Houston Dash Girls Academy. With family ties in Colorado, she relocated to Denver, where she has been involved with the Colorado Rapids Youth Program for the past three years, currently serving as the ECNL-RL Girls Director in the South.
Max PolandAssistant Coach

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Biography
Max brings a wealth of experience, blending international playing exposure with a deep passion for coaching and player development. Starting at an early age in Fort Collins, he quickly became immersed in the game and honed his skills with local clubs like Arsenal and Storm. His move to Germany, where he played for TV Erkheim…
Max brings a wealth of experience, blending international playing exposure with a deep passion for coaching and player development. Starting at an early age in Fort Collins, he quickly became immersed in the game and honed his skills with local clubs like Arsenal and Storm. His move to Germany, where he played for TV Erkheim 2019, enriched his understanding of the game on an international level. After returning to the U.S., Max pursued a Bachelor’s in Sport Management at the University of Northern Colorado, which set the foundation for this transition into coaching. He holds a USSF “B” License and is currently working towards his “A” License. Max is dedicated to the development of players on and off the field. His coaching philosophy centers around playing an aesthetically pleasing style of soccer while fostering an unmatched work ethic, ensuring his teams are not only skilled but also hardworking.
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Deco CostaAssistant Coach

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Biography
Born and raised in Miami, FL, Deco grew up playing for Kendall Soccer Coalition, where they competed in the DA program for five years and served as captain for the last three. He began his collegiate career at the United States Military Academy at West Point, playing Division I soccer for a year before transferring…
Born and raised in Miami, FL, Deco grew up playing for Kendall Soccer Coalition, where they competed in the DA program for five years and served as captain for the last three. He began his collegiate career at the United States Military Academy at West Point, playing Division I soccer for a year before transferring to FIU in Miami. At FIU, he played for three years and served as vice-captain in his final season.
After graduating, Deco transitioned into coaching at Kendall Soccer Coalition, working as an assistant coach for the U19 and U17 MLS Next teams while also serving as the Head Coach for the U12 Pre-MLS Next team. Now with CRYSC, he continues to bring his leadership and experience to the Elite Camps program and the U13 Girls ECNL team while being on the Colorado Storm USL staff.
Tristan LainGoalkeeping Coach

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Biography
Tristan Lain joins the Colorado Storm staff, bringing a wealth of experience and a strong background in goalkeeper development. A former Division I goalkeeper, Tristan began his coaching journey with the largest youth club in Fargo, North Dakota, while also volunteering with the women’s program at Minnesota State University Moorhead. He later became the Director…
Tristan Lain joins the Colorado Storm staff, bringing a wealth of experience and a strong background in goalkeeper development.
A former Division I goalkeeper, Tristan began his coaching journey with the largest youth club in Fargo, North Dakota, while also volunteering with the women’s program at Minnesota State University Moorhead. He later became the Director of Goalkeeping, where he was instrumental in building the program from the ground up.
Tristan went on to serve as the assistant coach for both the men’s and women’s programs at Franklin College, where he helped guide several goalkeepers to conference honors.
In February 2022, Tristan relocated to Colorado and took over the South region’s goalkeeping program. Since then, he has made a significant impact—not only in the South region but also within the ECNL-RL Girls program.
We’re excited to officially welcome Tristan to the staff and look forward to the continued influence he’ll have on our goalkeepers throughout the season.
Tristan LainGoalkeeping Coach

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Biography
Tristan Lain joins the Colorado Storm staff, bringing a wealth of experience and a strong background in goalkeeper development. A former Division I goalkeeper, Tristan began his coaching journey with the largest youth club in Fargo, North Dakota, while also volunteering with the women’s program at Minnesota State University Moorhead. He later became the Director…
Tristan Lain joins the Colorado Storm staff, bringing a wealth of experience and a strong background in goalkeeper development.
A former Division I goalkeeper, Tristan began his coaching journey with the largest youth club in Fargo, North Dakota, while also volunteering with the women’s program at Minnesota State University Moorhead. He later became the Director of Goalkeeping, where he was instrumental in building the program from the ground up.
Tristan went on to serve as the assistant coach for both the men’s and women’s programs at Franklin College, where he helped guide several goalkeepers to conference honors.
In February 2022, Tristan relocated to Colorado and took over the South region’s goalkeeping program. Since then, he has made a significant impact—not only in the South region but also within the ECNL-RL Girls program.
We’re excited to officially welcome Tristan to the staff and look forward to the continued influence he’ll have on our goalkeepers throughout the season.