Cal North Hall Of Fame 

Young Referee of the Year – Male: Aidan Patel, Fresno

Presented to individuals under 19, the Young Referee of the Year Award (Male) recognizes remarkable accomplishments as a referee, while also highlighting excellence as a player, student, and active member of the community.

“From the moment he stepped onto the field to referee at just 13 years old, Aidan has shown an impressive level of maturity, professionalism, and love for the game. What sets Aidan apart is not just his ability to officiate accurately and confidently—but the way he carries himself with integrity, calmness, and respect for everyone on the field.”

Young Referee of the Year – Female: Neha Naidu, Elk Grove

The Young Referee of the Year Award (Female) honors referees under the age of 19 who demonstrate exceptional achievements not only on the field but also as players, students, and contributors to their community.

“Coaches, assignors, and fellow referees describe Neha as respectful, reliable, and easy to work
with. She models inclusion, mentors peers by example, and consistently accepts challenging
assignments. Neha is an excellent role model beyond soccer, maintains favorable relations across
the soccer community, demonstrates sound moral character, promotes players and the game, and
expands access to quality officiating.”

Coach of the Year – Girls Recreational: Rene Reyes, Golden Valley YSL

The Coach of the Year Award (Girls Recreational) recognizes outstanding achievements in coaching and celebrates individuals who embody sportsmanship, inspire their players, pursue personal growth, and contribute to their community.

One parent writes, “Coach Reyes's commitment to teamwork, positive sportsmanship, and respect is evident in every aspect of his coaching. He demands respect from his players, but more importantly, he shows them respect in return. His emphasis on sportsmanship extends beyond his own team, teaching the girls to respect their opponents and officials alike.”

Coach of the Year – Girls Competitive: Michael Portillo, Sierra United Soccer Club

The Girls Competitive Coach of the Year Award highlights coaches who demonstrate exceptional leadership, a commitment to sportsmanship, the ability to encourage athletes, dedication to their own professional development, and active involvement in their community.

A current player of Coach Portillo states, "Coach has so much patience, and he expects greatness from all of us players. He truly has made me a better soccer player. I remember coming onto the team for the first time, and not having a lot of confidence... especially with the ball. I now feel 100% more confident on the field."

Coach of the Year – Boys Recreational: Brad Eastham, Elk Grove Soccer

The Coach of the Year Award (Boys Recreational) honors coaches who stand out for their accomplishments, commitment to sportsmanship, player motivation, ongoing coaching development, and positive impact on their community.

“[Coach Brad's] influence extends beyond the players he coaches. Younger siblings, parents, and even rival teams feel the impact of his leadership. Brad believes in building not just strong teams, but strong people. His commitment to character, community, and connection make him a coach whose reach goes far beyond the soccer field."

Coach of the Year – Boys Competitive: Bob Joyce, Cupertino FC

The Boys Competitive Coach of the Year Award celebrates coaches whose remarkable achievements reflect true sportsmanship, the ability to inspire athletes, dedication to continual growth, and meaningful engagement within the community.

“Joyce's coaching approach is based on professional expertise and scientific methodology, with a deep expertise in kinesiology and holistic player development. He trains every coach at Cupertino FC in kinesiology principles, injury prevention, and age-appropriate development methods. His focus is on quality physical and skills training from a young age.”

TOPSoccer Buddy of the Year: Audrina Martella, Livermore Fusion SC

The TOPSoccer Buddy of the Year Award honors an individual who has shown patience, empathy, reliability, and adaptability, consistently supporting players, engaging with them individually, and modeling exemplary behavior on and off the field.

“At just ten years old, Audrina showed incredible heart and maturity by choosing to help others discover a love for the game she herself is so passionate about. Audrina’s journey with TOPSoccer has been as transformative for her as it was for the players she supported. She has been learning to navigate life with a recent ADD diagnosis, and our family had encouraged her to find ways to give back—knowing that serving others often brings clarity, confidence, and purpose. Volunteering with TOPSoccer turned out to be the perfect fit.”

Volunteer of the Year: Daniel Templeton, Elk Grove Soccer

The Volunteer of the Year Award recognizes an individual who serves as an outstanding role model for both the community and fellow volunteers, while also helping to expand opportunities for others to get involved.

“Through his tireless volunteer efforts, he has significantly increased opportunities for children and families to engage in soccer, breaking down barriers to participation and inspiring others to contribute their time and talents. He stands as an exceptional role model—not only for players and volunteers—but for the entire community he serves.”