PSC is proud to announce that Rick Schantz, former Phoenix Rising FC head coach, will be joining our 2025 Summer Pro Soccer Combines as a lead coach and US recruitment and placement advisor.

With a coaching résumé that includes experience in the USL Championship, MLS, and the U.S. Soccer national scouting network, Schantz brings an elite level of insight and opportunity to PSC players.

Schantz served as head coach of Phoenix Rising from 2018 to 2022, leading the club to multiple USL Championship Western Conference titles. Under his leadership, the team set league records for wins, points, and goals, earning him the 2019 USL Coach of the Year award. He is widely respected for his tactical intelligence, talent development, and attacking brand of soccer.

His experience extends beyond club level. Schantz has worked with U.S. Soccer on the national scouting team, helping identify talent for the country’s youth national teams. He also spent time working with MLS coaching staff and helped co-found FC Tucson, a club that became a key development platform for emerging American players.

Notably, Schantz coached Chelsea and Ivory Coast legend Didier Drogba during Drogba’s time at Phoenix Rising, gaining valuable experience managing world-class talent and high-performance expectations.  

This summer, Schantz will attend PSC’s combines in New York, San Diego, Atlanta, and Dallas, coaching players directly and using his professional network to identify talent for USL and MLS-level opportunities.  

“Rick’s background, connections, and eye for talent make him an incredible asset for any player attending our events,” said PSC Director Tom Taylor. “He knows what it takes to go pro — and he’s here to help players make that leap and guide them on their soccer journey.”  

For serious players looking to break into the U.S. professional system, Rick Schantz’s involvement at PSC is the perfect opportunity.



Don’t miss your chance to be seen by top-level coaches like Rick Schantz. Register now for PSC’s 2025 Summer Pro Tryouts and take the first step toward your professional career.