STAFF
Manuel “Pato” Hurtado
Regional Director of Soccer
Manuel Hurtado Jr. is an experienced coach, mentor, and leader within the soccer and Ministry community, dedicated to developing athletes on and off the field. A Godly father of four beautiful children and husband to Inez Hurtado, Manuel brings the same values of commitment, integrity, and growth to his work as he does to his 1st ministry in his family.
Manuel currently serves as the Head Coach for Both College of the Desert’s men’s and women’s soccer programs, contributing to player development, recruitment, and competitive performance. His coaching journey includes serving as Director of FCA SC, where he oversaw club operations and player pathways as well as ministry developing in Engaging, Equipping and Empowering coaches and athletes into a growing relationship with Jesus Christ and His Church.
With a strong background in coaching, scouting, leadership, and Ministry, Manuel is committed to fostering a positive, competitive, and development-driven environment at Veritas FC, empowering young athletes to reach their highest potential and following a Holy Spirit driven life.
CJ Lamoreux
President
CJ Lamoreux is the President and Founder of Veritas Sports International a Christ-centered movement advancing truth, excellence, and discipleship in sports.
During his nine years with the Fellowship of Christian Athletes (FCA), CJ helped launch FCA Sports across multiple states and served on the National FCA Soccer Committee, shaping the organization’s national sports ministry strategy and impact. CJ also founded Palm Desert Soccer Club, growing it from a small local program into a 21-team competitive club recognized for its excellence in player and coach development.
CJ is passionate about developing leaders who pursue both competitive excellence and spiritual growth. He and his wife, Shannon, have two children, Gianna and Preston, and share a passion for seeing lives transformed by the truth of Jesus Christ, both in sport and in life.
Linda Costagliola
Executive Assistant
Mario Gallo
Director of Football
Brent Groom
Director of Operations High Desert Soccer Club
Hi I’m Brent Groom and the head coach of our 2011 HD boys F2 team. I’ve been coaching soccer for about 10 years now. Started off coaching rec soccer for 6 years and now entering my third year coaching club soccer. My goal is develop my players, develop strategies to perform well and to teach them how to work together collectively on the field. Each player is specific to their abilities but I believe it’s my job to develop a positive environment, winning attitude and enrich our youth through the practices of Jesus Christ.
Team’s biggest accomplishment was SoCal Elite Labor Day champions back to back (2024/2025). I’m very proud of the work the team has put forth and looking forward to what the future holds.
Kevin Meza
Director of Operations
Kevin Meza graduated from California Baptist University with a degree in Sports Marketing. He is passionate about sports ministry and finds purpose in using athletics to impact lives.
Soccer is his greatest passion, though he enjoys all sports and the opportunities they create to help and serve others. Kevin is committed to continued learning and growth as he seeks to further God’s Kingdom through his work and leadership. He strives to bring excellence, service, and intentionality into every role he takes on.
Johnny Huerta
Director of Basketball
Johnny Huerta is a lifelong Coachella Valley resident, husband of eight years, and father to three children—a 17-year-old daughter and two young sons. With over a decade of basketball coaching experience, he brings a passion for player development, mentorship, and building strong team culture.
Johnny is a Coachella Valley High School graduate and former College of the Desert basketball player, where he competed for two years. He is also actively involved in ministry at his local church, serving and supporting others in their walk of faith. Rooted in family, faith, and sports, Johnny is committed to making a positive impact in his community.
Vincenzo Costagliola
Director of Operations
Vincenzo Costagliola is a former College of the Desert athlete and NAIA soccer player who now serves as a Head Assistant Coach for College of the Desert Soccer Programs. Vincenzo has grown up passionate about sports, he learned that coaching is ultimately a calling to serve, disciple, and lead young athletes for the glory of God.
Shaped by mentors and ministry through the Fellowship of Christian Athletes, Vincenzo discovered a deeper purpose in coaching through his faith and his life verse, Colossians 3:23–24. He holds a U.S. Soccer D License and continues to pursue coaching education while serving athletes with a Christ-centered, servant-minded approach. Vincenzo’s goal is to use soccer to impact lives for Christ and inspire future generations to compete with purpose and humility.
Adam Caudle
Director of Soccer High Desert