MO RUIZ

master technical trainer

 

 

With over 17 years of training experience, Mo is a master of technical development. He brings contagious energy, an unforgettable personality, true passion for the game, and unmatched expertise to every training session. Mo’s ability to connect with players and develop talent is rare and not replicable. He has been training players throughout the Sacramento region since 2007.

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Mo began playing soccer as soon as he could walk—or so his mother says. Born in Lynwood, California, Mo moved with his family to San Luis Obispo at the age of five, where he spent most of his youth soccer years. During one summer, Mo’s talent caught the attention of a Nike representative, leading to an endorsement and youth athletic sponsorship with Nike Soccer. He was invited to play for the Nomads, one of the most prestigious youth soccer clubs in North America.

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At just 14 years old, Mo left home to live with a host family in La Jolla, San Diego, to pursue his dream of becoming a professional soccer player. His journey eventually brought him to Sacramento in 2000, where at age 18 he signed to play professional indoor soccer. Unfortunately, a career-ending injury in his first season forced Mo to reassess his future at a very young age.

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Mo attended American River College, earning an AA degree in Fire Technology, and soon pursued another calling. He moved back to San Diego and became a firefighter with the San Diego Fire Department. His dedication and work ethic led him to elite positions, including Helitack firefighter for the Sycuan Golden Eagles, a member of the Tahoe Hotshots—one of the most prestigious Hot Shot crews in the country—and ultimately pursuing the path to become a Smokejumper.

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In 2008, after the birth of his first child, Mo made the difficult decision to step away from firefighting. The dangers of the job and the time away from family led him back to his first passion: soccer.

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As the former Blues FC Academy Director, Mo was quickly recognized as one of the top youth soccer trainers in Northern California. His impact is evident in the countless players and teams across Placer County who developed under his guidance, as well as the steady stream of athletes who continue to flock to Mad Skillz every day.

 

 

Career Highlights:

 

• Developed the youngest ever athlete in America to sign PRO contract

• Developed the youngest ever athlete across all sports to sign NIL with Nike

• Mak Whitham

• Founder Anthem FC (Most successful Futsal Training In Northern CA)

• Founder Mad Skillz Soccer Inc.

• Former Director of Training & Camps Blues FC

• Former Galaxy Blues Academy Director

• Former California Blues Technical Director

• USFF State Director

• 5 x United States National Champion Coach

• 4 x World Champion Coach

• 8 x Northwest Regional Champion Coach

• 6 x California State Champion Coach

• 2 x International Champion Coach

• USFF National Team Coach (2004 Girls)

• United States Department Of Agriculture Smoke Jumper

• San Diego City Fire Department Heli-tack Crew 

• Sycuan Golden Eagles Hot Shots 

 

 

 

Credentials:

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• USSF C License

• USSF D License

• Sports Nutrition Certified (ISSA)

• Personal Training Certified (ISSA)

• Youth Fitness Certified (ISSA)

• United Soccer Coaches Advanced National Diploma

• United Soccer Coaches 11v11 Diploma

• FIORENTINA Basic

• FIORENTINA Advanced

• United Soccer Coaches National Diploma

• United Soccer Coaches Goalkeeper Diploma Level 1&2

• United Soccer Coaches Futsal Diploma Level 1

• USFF Futsal Development License

• NFHS Coaching Fundamentals

• United Soccer Coaches Special Topics (Small Sided Games)

• CPR/AED Certified 2025

• First Responder 2024

• Emergency Medical Technician (retired)

• Fire Fighter 1 (retired)

 

 

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Futsal

 

Professional Mens Team (Major League Futsal)

Semi Pro Futsal Team NFPL 2026

Elite Youth teams U7 and Up

 

 

Playing Experience:

 

2016- Pro Futsal

2006-2008 FC Ireland (CCSL)

2003-2004 AC Cruz Azul (CCSL)

2001 Sacramento Knights Indoor 

1999 - US National Champion Team (Nomads)

1996-1998 Gothia Cup, Champions (Nomads)

1997 - ODP Regional Team

1996 - Cal South State Team

1988-1996 San Luis Obispo Soccer Club