Graham Smith- Charleston Battery- USL

“Having played for Chris Martinez at both the youth and professional level, I can confidently say there are very few coaches with the soccer understanding, ability to communicate concepts/themes of play, and relate to players as well as Marti. As a result of his extensive soccer knowledge gained both as a coach and player, Marti is excellent at identifying what aspects of a player’s game need improvement, creating a plan to work on those areas, and executing on implementing those improvements. Regardless of skill-level, you will be a better player as a result of working with Chris Martinez.”

Teams played for:
Charleston Battery, Memphis 901 FC, Sporting Kansas City, University of Denver, Real Colorado.

Julia Lambert- JBU NAIA - All American

“Coach Mike saw my potential from the beginning and believed in me, even when I struggled to see it myself. He didn’t just coach me—he invested in me as a player and person. He taught me a new position where I could thrive, helping me make an impact on the field. More than improving my skills, he gave me the confidence to push past my limits. His belief in me extended beyond high school, seeing my future at the collegiate level long before I did. I’m incredibly grateful for his guidance and trust, which shaped me both as an athlete and as a person.”

Griffin Dorsey- Houston Dynamo- MLS

“Marti has been a huge influence in my career. I first worked with him at Colorado Rapids PDL during my freshman year at Indiana University, where he introduced me to the differences between college and professional soccer. His lessons on professionalism, consistency, and growth had a massive impact before, during, and after getting drafted in the 2019 MLS SuperDraft. Years later, our paths crossed again at Houston Dynamo FC, where he reinforced those lessons while refining key details in my game. His influence helped me transition from an attacking winger to an attacking outside back—an adjustment that would have been much harder without his guidance. Thank you, Marti.”

Teams played for:
Houston Dynamo, Toronto FC, Indiana University, US U20 & U18 National Teams, Colorado Rush SC.

Ian Smith- Portland Timbers – MLS

“Coach Mike Wright had an immense impact on my soccer career. I started playing at three, and by five, I was lucky to be on his team. For the next seven years, he shaped my development, teaching me the fundamentals—juggling, dribbling, passing, and first touch—while instilling the techniques needed to succeed at the highest level. His mentorship gave me direction when I didn’t know my next step, and he remains one of the greatest coaches I’ve ever had. His influence helped me become the player I am today.”

Teams played for:
Portland Timbers, University of Denver, Real Colorado.

Sam Vines- Colorado Rapids- MLS

“Marti was a fantastic coach and mentor, helping me grow both on and off the field. He truly understands players, building their confidence and guiding them toward their goals. His influence shaped my development, and I wouldn’t be the player or person I am today without his coaching. I’m grateful for the time I had with him and the impact he had on my journey.”

Teams played for:
Colorado Rapids, Royal Antwerp, USMNT, US U23 NT, US U14 – U18 YNT, Colorado Rapids Academy.

Brianna Johnson- Westmont NAIA - All American

“Coach Mike Wright saw potential in me that I didn’t see in myself. He gave me the confidence to be more effective in front of goal, teaching me how to get a shot off under pressure, position myself inside the box, and attack defenders with pace. His training outside of team practices helped refine my technical skills, setting me apart from others. His advocacy played a key role in my recruitment, leading to a successful collegiate career. Thanks to his coaching, I became a more confident and impactful player.”

Amadou Dia- Louisville City FC- USL

“Since I was four, my dream was to become a professional soccer player, and I was fortunate to achieve it—but not alone. One of the key figures in my journey was Chris Martinez. When I moved from France to the U.S., he was my first competitive coach, making me feel welcome and instilling confidence while refining my technical and tactical skills. He taught me to be coachable, a great teammate, and a professional on and off the field. Now, entering my 11th year as a pro, his influence remains one of the most significant in my career. I’m incredibly grateful for all he has done.”

Teams played for:
Louisville City FC, Sporting Kansas City, Phoenix Rising, Montreal Impact, Clemson University, Real Colorado.

Dr. Chris Cote- Parent of Academy / Collegiate / US National Team Camp Soccer Player

“Mike Wright is more than just a coach—he’s a thought leader in soccer, constantly identifying strengths in players and helping them reach their fullest potential. He has coached all of our children, including our son, who played Division I college soccer, guiding them with encouragement and development. His ability to recognize talent and create opportunities for growth is unmatched. Now, with his new program, he’s building a platform that will elevate both players and the game itself.”

Jake Davis- Sporting Kansas City – MLS

“I spent two years with Chris Martinez as my coach. I enjoyed playing for him. He has a great way of connecting with players and communicating his knowledge of the game. Chris helps players focus on small details, that add up to big improvements in their game. I’m very grateful for Chris, he helped me become the player I am today”.