ABOUT US

Max Woodruff, Director of Coaching at Laguna Beach FC, and Nathan Casey, founder of OPUS Soccer, have collaborated to launch JNR BALLR—an innovative program crafted to introduce young players to soccer through an inspiring and development-focused pathway.

With over 20 years of combined youth coaching experience, their shared vision is to inspire the next generation of BALLRs through a curriculum rooted in European player development philosophy. This focuses on the Foundation Phase— where mastering the ball, building confidence, and developing game understanding are key.

This program is all about building strong foundational skills through dynamic, interactive sessions that keep players motivated and challenged. Community-driven and player-focused, the goal is to create an environment where young athletes grow in confidence, creativity, and passion for the game.

JNR BALLR also aims to develop the next generation of coaches, providing them with the tools and training needed to deliver fun, age-appropriate sessions that nurture talent and enjoyment.

At the heart of JNR BALLR are core values:
- Master the ball
- Have fun
- Build confidence
- Understand the game

It’s not just about playing soccer—it’s about building a culture, empowering young players, and bringing our community together!