San Jose, CA — April 20, 2025
This Sunday, the spotlight will shine not only on some of the top senior soccer players from across the Bay Area, but also on the pioneers who laid the foundation for the game’s growth and success in the region. At the inaugural GSF Senior All-Star Men’s Soccer Game, a select group of soccer legends will be recognized as Honorary Captains — each representing decades of excellence, leadership, and dedication to youth and collegiate soccer.

The event will be held at Gunderson High School in San Jose, and will feature 32 of the best senior footballers from around the Bay, competing in the “Stand Up and Support” Anti-Bullying and Suicide Prevention Game — a campaign powered by GetSportsFocus to inspire action and awareness through sport.

Before kickoff, GSF will introduce seven honorary captains, all of whom have left a lasting legacy on and off the pitch.

Meet the Honorary Captains

Daniel Castillo
A standout from Homestead High School, Castillo was a 2x First Team All-CCS selection and SCVAL De Anza League MVP in 1997. He played for San Jose State from 1997–2001, leading the team to a #1 national ranking in 2000, setting a program record for wins in a season, and finishing as the conference’s top scorer in 2001.

Frank Yallop
A British-Canadian soccer icon, Frank Yallop brings a decorated career in both playing and coaching to the field. As a player, he appeared in over 470 professional matches — including 52 for the Canadian National Team and nearly 400 for Ipswich Town in England. As a coach, he won two MLS Cups with the San Jose Earthquakes (2001, 2003), led the Canadian Men’s National Team, and held head coaching roles with LA Galaxy, Chicago Fire, and Monterey Bay FC, among others. Most recently, Yallop served as Head Coach and Sporting Director of Monterey Bay FC, helping lay the foundation for the club’s future. He is widely respected for his team-building, steady leadership, and focus on player development.

George Lamptey (“King George”)
An Olympian, NASL pro, and one of the most revered educators in the game, George Lamptey has spent decades giving back to soccer both locally and globally. A USSF and FIFA-licensed coach and instructor, George has authored The Ten Bridges to Professional Soccer and produced the Youth All-Star Instructional Video. He has coached youth for decades in the Bay Area, most notably with MVLA, and scouted talent for professional clubs across Europe and MLS. Today, he serves as the Founder and CEO of the High-level Sports Foundation (Ghana) — a nonprofit dedicated to supporting underprivileged youth and orphanages in Ghana. His impact stretches far beyond the field, with a personal motto: “It’s not what you achieve, but what you overcome to achieve it.”

Jerry Smith
One of the most respected names in U.S. collegiate soccer, Smith is entering his 39th year as head coach at Santa Clara University. A Homestead HS alum, Smith has led SCU to numerous conference titles and a National Championship, earning the reputation as one of the finest coaches in the country.

Joe Silveira
A Cupertino High School Hall of Famer and veteran coach, Silveira brings over three decades of experience at the high school, college, and professional levels. He’s a 2x National Champion coach, 12x Coach of the Year, and former professional player with teams including the San Jose Earthquakes and SF Blackhawks. His teams have been nationally ranked in 15 seasons, and he holds elite coaching licenses from the USSF and NSCAA.

Mark Stuart
An alum of Piedmont Hills High School, Stuart made his mark as a creative winger, remembered for scoring a spectacular bending goal against CCS powerhouse Independence High during his senior year. That moment still stands as one of the most iconic in school history.

Mehdi Siadat
A lifelong educator and mentor, Siadat graduated from Skyline High School and played at San Jose State University, where he received lifetime achievement recognition. He has spent over 35 years coaching youth soccer, earning State and National Coach of the Year honors and holding top-level coaching certifications including the USSF National License.

Scott Murray
A Milpitas High School Class of 1987 graduate, Murray was a league MVP and two-time champion, known for his playmaking in midfield. In 2004, he transitioned to the net and earned a gold medal at the Police International Olympics as a goalkeeper — showcasing versatility and leadership throughout his athletic career.

Steve Robertson
A former Oak Grove HS All-CCS selection, Robertson played at Santa Clara University, where he helped the Broncos win the 1989 NCAA National Championship — the last D1 men’s team to finish a season undefeated. His professional career included stints with the SF Bay Blackhawks, Real Santa Barbara, and the San Jose Grizzlies. He has coached with Santa Clara Sporting for 12 years and remains a key figure in Bay Area soccer development.

Thomas Silvas
Born in Campbell to Mexican-American parents who worked the prune fields, Thomas Silvas rose to become a 3-time San Jose Mercury News Player of the Year (1981–83), a Parade All-American, and the MVP of UCLA’s 1985 NCAA National Championship — in the longest game in NCAA history (8 overtimes). He played for the San Jose Earthquakes, U.S. National Team, Olympic Team, and Futsal Team, totaling 10 pro seasons. He later coached in Singapore’s Super League and founded the Silvas Family Soccer Foundation, a 501(c)(3) nonprofit supporting youth athletes. A UCLA grad and licensed attorney, Silvas is now a top Bay Area real estate agent. His journey is a testament to grit, achievement, and giving back — a true example of Dream Big – Soñar a lo Grande.

A Legacy of Leadership

The inclusion of these seven honorary captains added depth and meaning to the GSF Senior All-Star Men’s Soccer Game. Each one has influenced the game at multiple levels — from youth leagues and high school sidelines to college stadiums and professional clubs.

“This is more than just an all-star game,” said GSF Executive Producer Alforde Joaquin. “It’s a chance to reflect on the giants who paved the way, the coaches and players who set the standards, and the mentors who’ve shaped countless lives through soccer. We’re honored to recognize these legends tonight.”

As the next generation of student-athletes took the field, they did so with the support and example of the legends before them — a powerful reminder that while the game is played for 90 minutes, its impact can last a lifetime.

With 25 years of coaching experience, Juan Torres—better known as “Sharky” to those around him—has left a lasting impact on the Bay Area soccer scene and the lives of countless young athletes. As the head of the Abraham Lincoln High School soccer program and a coach with Santa Clara Sporting Club, Coach Torres brings a unique blend of competitive excellence, mentorship, and social advocacy to everything he does.

A proud San Jose native and Abraham Lincoln High School alum (Class of ’96), Torres was a two-time First Team All-League selection and team captain. He continued his playing career at De Anza College, reaching the state final four twice and leading as captain in 1998 under his mentor Kuwalnt Singh. His passion for the game carried into his coaching career, where he’s become a 3-time CCS Champion (2016, 2017, 2022), a 2019 CCS finalist, and a 3-time CCS Coach of the Year. He also coached in the CCS Senior All-Star Games in 2016 and 2017 and was inducted into the Abraham Lincoln Hall of Fame.

But Coach Torres’ journey extends far beyond the sidelines. A graduate of San Jose State University with a B.S. in Kinesiology (Teacher Education, 2006), he’s served his community as a public service worker, group counselor, and probation counselor in Santa Cruz and San Mateo Counties. Now working as a facilitator for Pacific Clinics and continuing his role as an educator, Torres dedicates himself to mentoring youth—particularly Latino student-athletes—on balancing sports and academics, and using fútbol as a pathway to college and life success.

His personal journey is a story of strength and perseverance. After battling chronic kidney failure, Coach Torres received a kidney transplant and has returned stronger than ever, using his experience to further inspire and uplift those around him.

“My expectations for student-athletes are simple,” Torres says. “Be coachable, have a great attitude, and always bring a strong work ethic. Use the game to open doors—especially through junior college and academic opportunities.”

Coach Torres’ long-term goal is to earn a master’s degree in either Kinesiology or Social Work and continue expanding his reach as a mentor. He’s a firm believer that soccer is more than a game—it’s a platform for education, growth, and lifelong success.

He extends his deepest thanks to Abraham Lincoln High School, his coaches and mentors, GetSportsFocus, and above all, his family and his mother, whose unwavering support has carried him through his career and life’s challenges. To all the student-athletes he’s coached: “Thank you for letting me be part of your journey.”

This Sunday, April 20 at Gunderson High School, Coach Sharky Torres will serve as the head coach for the 5-Star Senior Team in the inaugural GSF Senior All-Star Soccer Championship Game—continuing his legacy of leadership and excellence on one of the biggest stages for high school soccer in the Bay Area.

After more than three decades on the sidelines, Coach Luis Comesana’s name is etched into the history of Bay Area high school soccer. A veteran of 33 years at Homestead High School, Comesana guided his teams to seven league championships and consistent appearances in the CCS playoffs—setting a gold standard of competitive excellence, discipline, and passion.

Now coaching JV tennis at Lynbrook High School, Coach Comesana’s love for coaching has never wavered. His heart remains tied to the game of fútbol, the sport he first fell in love with as a child in Peru under the guidance of his grandfather. That early connection inspired a lifetime of dedication, first as a standout player and later as a transformative coach.

During his playing days, Comesana earned All-League, All-State, and Honorable Mention All-American honors at De Anza College before transferring to San Jose State, where he played two more years and earned a degree in Marketing. He went on to win prestigious coaching honors including Mercury News Coach of the Year (2002), Palo Alto Times Coach of the Year (2003), and CCS Coach of the Year (1996–97).

But for Comesana, the real accolades are the lives he’s touched.

“To me, practice is too short and games aren’t frequent enough,” he says. “I coach because it gives me the opportunity to lead and mentor student-athletes who can benefit from guidance and belief. I teach respect and sportsmanship above all, and I want my players to enjoy the game.”

As a mentor, he believes in going the extra mile—staying late, working one-on-one, or simply listening. His advice to this year’s GSF All-Star players: “Always give 100% and never feel like you don’t belong. Hard work and dedication can take you far—it’s a combination I’ve seen lead so many to success in high school and college.”

One of his proudest moments as a father and coach was watching his daughter, Katarina Comesana, represent Peru in the South American qualifiers and the Pan American Games—a testament to the values he instilled both at home and on the field.

Coach Comesana credits his family’s unwavering support for his ability to serve young athletes for so many years. “Without them, this journey would’ve been impossible,” he says. “To all my players—thank you. The memories we built together are written in stone.”

Now a featured head coach for the inaugural GSF Senior All-Star Soccer Championship Game, Luis Comesana brings a legacy of integrity, wisdom, and love for the game. His influence spans generations, and his mission remains clear: to shape better athletes and even better people.

With 18 years of coaching experience under his belt, Jaye Reinman has established himself as a dedicated leader and mentor in the world of flag football. Currently serving as the Head Coach for Girls Varsity Flag Football at Los Gatos High School and the Head Coach for Boys and Girls Flag Football at Saint Andrews Episcopal, Jaye brings a wealth of knowledge, passion, and a commitment to developing athletes both on and off the field.

A Coach With a Purpose

For Jaye, coaching is more than just about winning games. It’s about instilling values of respect, character, and discipline in his players. His goal is to ensure that every athlete he coaches enjoys the game while also growing as individuals. He believes in being a positive influence, teaching skills that extend beyond the field, and fostering an environment where players feel supported and empowered.

“My goals are always about ensuring the people I’m coaching are having fun. I want to be a source that develops the player on and off the field. Respecting all and having good character is always at the forefront,” Jaye shared.

Guided by Faith and Passion

Jaye’s coaching philosophy is deeply rooted in his faith and love for the game. “The Lord has shown me this is my path. I love doing it! I love having an opportunity to change someone else’s life in a positive way,” he explained. His dedication to coaching is evident in his willingness to share the techniques and skills he has learned over the years, helping his players reach new heights in their performance.

Accolades and Achievements

Jaye Reinman’s coaching career is marked by significant accomplishments:

• 49ers Prep Coach of the Week (2023) – A recognition of his exceptional leadership and coaching.
• Division Champion at Los Gatos High School with an impressive record of 24-2.
• 2023 Championship Winner with the 8th Grade Boys Flag Football team at Saint Andrews Episcopal.

Advice for All-Star Athletes

As the HEROES Girls Flag All-Star coach, Jaye offers this heartfelt advice to his players:
“Play like this is your very last chance to lace up your cleats. You really never know when your opportunities will dry up.”

His words are a powerful reminder to cherish every moment on the field and to give 100% in every play, every game, and every opportunity.

Gratitude and Thanks

Jaye attributes his success to his faith and the support of those around him. “I always want to thank God for all that He has blessed me with. I also want to thank GSF for giving me an opportunity to coach these girls up for a fun competitive game,” he said.

A Legacy of Impact

Through his unwavering commitment to his players, Jaye Reinman continues to be a source of inspiration and growth for the athletes he coaches. As he steps into the role of HEROES Girls Flag All-Star Coach, his dedication to developing players both as athletes and individuals shines brightly, ensuring that his influence will be felt for years to come.

Follow Coach Jaye on Instagram: @Thekid_khayree

When it comes to coaching excellence and mentorship, few embody these qualities as strongly as Alic Ho, known affectionately by players and peers as “Coach Ho.” With 10 years of coaching experience under his belt, Coach Ho has become a transformative figure in Bay Area youth and high school football, building a reputation for competitive success, innovative strategies, and a genuine commitment to athlete development.

Coaching Journey

Coach Ho currently serves as the Varsity Head Coach for Lincoln High School’s women’s flag football team and is also the Head Coach for High Intensity Bay Area’s high school 7v7 team. His coaching journey began when his son’s flag football team needed a coach. What started as a way to bond with his young son quickly grew into a lifelong passion. Over the years, Coach Ho expanded his horizons, branching off from High Intensity San Diego to establish High Intensity Bay Area, a competitive travel program for both 7v7 and flag football.

Having coached at every level from youth leagues to the highly competitive WCAL, Coach Ho has traveled the country with his teams, earning numerous tournament victories. However, his proudest accomplishment is a personal one: helping his son achieve his dream of starting as a varsity quarterback as a freshman. “To have a 14-year-old play at the highest level in high school at the toughest position was one of his dreams, and I’m grateful I could help,” Ho reflects.

Coaching Philosophy and Goals

For Coach Ho, coaching is about more than just winning games. “I coach because I like developing and helping young athletes in this area,” he explains. His unique approach blends old-school fundamentals with new-school techniques, ensuring that his players are both technically sound and adaptable. He aims to teach his athletes not only the skills needed to succeed on the field but also the values and mindset that lead to success off it.

While his ultimate goal is to coach until his son’s flag football journey takes him to college, Coach Ho’s immediate focus is on imparting as much knowledge as possible to his current athletes. “Right now, I’m trying to soak up as much knowledge and teach these young athletes until then,” he says.

Advice for All-Star Players

Coach Ho’s advice to the GSF 5-Star Senior All-Star team is simple but powerful: “Enjoy it! You were selected because you are good! Be a student of the game and enjoy meeting new teammates. You never know when you’ll play with or against them again!”

Gratitude and Acknowledgments

Coach Ho’s journey has been marked by the support of others, and he’s quick to express his gratitude. He thanks the coaches and trainers at High Intensity San Diego, his assistant coaches, and the Athletic Directors who gave him opportunities, such as Eagleson at Archbishop Mitty and Collins at Lincoln High School. He also extends his gratitude to the parents and players who have trusted him to coach their children.

Finally, he acknowledges his family as the cornerstone of his coaching career. “My wife has given me the support I never knew I needed through the years,” Ho shares. “My kids have always picked me up after a tough game or season.”

A Legacy in the Making

With a decade of experience, numerous accolades, and an unwavering commitment to his athletes, Coach Ho’s legacy as a leader and mentor continues to grow. As he takes the helm of the GSF 5-Star Girls Flag Football Senior All-Star team, his players can expect not just to compete but to grow as athletes and individuals under his guidance. Coach Ho’s passion, knowledge, and dedication make him a perfect choice to lead this talented group of athletes.

For Andrew DeLa Cruz, coaching is more than a profession—it’s a calling. With 15 years of experience in the field and a championship pedigree, Coach Andrew has cemented his reputation as one of the most passionate and effective leaders in athletic performance. Currently serving as the Head Coach of Football Athletic Performance for the Bay Area Panthers, DeLa Cruz played a critical role in guiding the team to their 2023 National Championship. But his impact extends far beyond the gridiron.

The Journey to Excellence

A proud alumnus of Archbishop Mitty High School, Class of 2007, Andrew DeLa Cruz found his passion for athletic performance early in life. He went on to compete as an NCAA Track and Field decathlete at NDNU, where he learned the value of resilience, discipline, and dedication. These experiences laid the foundation for his career as a coach and mentor.

DeLa Cruz’s journey includes a remarkable array of accomplishments: he’s a USA Weightlifting National Coach, a USATF Paralympic Coach for the Tokyo 2020 Trials, and the owner of XIOS Strength & Conditioning. Through XIOS, he’s helped countless athletes optimize their performance, prioritize recovery, and achieve their goals.

When asked about his coaching philosophy, Coach Andrew is quick to emphasize the importance of mindset. “Coaching is about more than just physical skills. It’s about empowering individuals to discover their potential, build confidence, and develop resilience that extends beyond the gym or field,” he explains. “I want to create champions on and off the field.”

Roman Ortiz

Height: 6’2″ | Weight: 290 lbs
School: Oak Grove Eagles
Position: Offensive Line (OL) / Defensive Line (DL)
Class of: 2025

Social Media & Profile Links

• X (Twitter): @roman_ort1z
• Instagram: @roman_ort1z
• HUDL: Roman Ortiz Highlights

Athletic Metrics

• Experience: 3-Year Varsity Player
• Leadership: Team Captain

Athletic Achievements

• Offers:

  • Pacific University
  • Puget Sound University

• Camp Performance:

  • Made an excellent first impression at the All-Star Camp, earning high praise from the line coaches for his work ethic and ability to execute.

Academic & Career Goals

• Plans to major in Kinesiology in college with aspirations to become a coach, contributing back to the sport he loves.

All-Star Nomination Notes

Roman Ortiz is a dedicated and coachable player who brings a professional attitude and a high level of commitment to the field. As a 3-year varsity athlete and team captain for the Oak Grove Eagles, Roman has demonstrated leadership and versatility on both the offensive and defensive lines.

Roman’s ability to adapt and excel stood out during the All-Star Camp, where he blended seamlessly with other top-tier athletes and impressed coaches with his work ethic and technical skills. His goal-driven mindset, combined with his passion for football and plans to study kinesiology, reflect his determination to succeed both on and off the field.

Roman Ortiz is a powerful and reliable lineman with a bright future, ready to make an impact at the next level.

Joshua Rios

Height: 6’0″ | Weight: 230 lbs
School: Overfelt Royals
Position: Offensive Line (OL)
Class of: 2025

Social Media & Profile Links

• X (Twitter): @JoshuaRios25888
• Instagram: @4o8.josh

Athletic Metrics

• Multi-Sport Athlete:
  • Track (2 Years): Improved agility, strength, and power through running and throwing events.
  • Rugby (2 Years): Built endurance, physicality, and toughness.

Athletic Achievements

• Football Experience:

  • Played all 4 years of high school football, developing a strong love for the game and a commitment to continuous improvement.

• Leadership & Work Ethic:

  • As the oldest of three siblings, Joshua has embraced the responsibility of setting a positive example, dedicating himself to weightlifting since middle school to inspire his younger siblings.

All-Star Nomination Notes

Joshua Rios is a determined and hardworking offensive lineman for the Overfelt Royals. With a background in football, track, and rugby, Joshua has developed a unique combination of agility, physicality, and endurance, making him a versatile athlete.

As the oldest of three siblings, Joshua’s leadership and dedication extend beyond the field, as he sets an example through his work ethic in the weight room and commitment to self-improvement. His multi-sport experience has contributed to his overall athletic development, showcasing his ability to adapt and thrive in various physical demands.

Joshua’s passion for football and desire to improve make him a valuable asset to any team. His willingness to learn, grow, and lead reflects his potential for success at the next level.

Aydin Babic

Height: 6’1″ | Weight: 185 lbs
School: Willow Glen Rams
Position: Kicker (K) / Punter (P)
Class of: 2025
GPA: 3.79 (Cumulative)

Social Media & Profile Links

• X (Twitter): @aydin_babic2025
• Instagram: @aydinbabic
• HUDL: Aydin Babic Highlights

Athletic Metrics

• Kicking: 5-Star Kicker
• Punting: 4.5-Star Punter
• National Ranking: 47th Kicker in the Nation, 3rd in California
• League Honors: 2nd Team All-League

Athletic Achievements

• Team Contributions:
  • Part of an undefeated 10-0 season and league championship with the Willow Glen Rams.

All-Star Nomination Notes

Aydin Babic is a standout special teams player for the Willow Glen Rams, excelling as both a kicker and punter. His precision and consistency on the field have earned him a 5-star kicker rating and a 4.5-star punter rating, making him one of the top specialists in the region.

Ranked as the 47th Kicker in the Nation and 3rd in California, Aydin’s talent is undeniable. As a key contributor to Willow Glen’s undefeated 10-0 season and league championship, Aydin played a pivotal role in the team’s success. His ability to handle high-pressure situations with composure sets him apart.

With a 3.79 cumulative GPA, Aydin excels both academically and athletically. Selected as a member of the GSF 5-Star All-Star squad, Aydin is poised to showcase his skills among the best athletes in Northern California.

His combination of talent, work ethic, and passion for the game makes Aydin Babic a valuable addition to any team at the next level.