Staff

Winter Haven Soccer Club is proud to announce the appointment of Mark Godwin as its new Executive Director and Director of Coaching. With over 25 years of experience in soccer coaching, education, and program development, Godwin brings exceptional leadership and expertise to the club as it continues to strengthen its impact across Central Florida.

Originally from Great Britain, Godwin has been a driving force in the growth of soccer in the United States since 1994. He previously served as Director of Coaching Education for Soccer Academy Inc., one of the largest youth coaching organizations in North America, where he helped shape the development of players and coaches nationwide.

His success continued as Director of Coaching for Crossroads Soccer Association in Louisiana, where his teams captured multiple state championships. Godwin later became Technical Director for the Louisiana Soccer Association (LSA), overseeing statewide player development programs and the Olympic Development Program (ODP), which achieved regional and national recognition.

Most recently, Godwin served as Associate Director of Coaching for the Florida Youth Soccer Association (FYSA), where he focused on elevating player development, coaching education, and club excellence throughout Florida.

Godwin holds both the UEFA ‘A’ License and USSF ‘A’ License, along with multiple advanced certifications, including the National Youth License, US Youth Soccer TOP Soccer Certificate, and FA Coaching Player’s with Disabilities License.

Coach Godwin is also part of the U.S. Soccer Talent I.D. Program and is a Talent I.D. Reporter and participates in the U.S. Soccer Talent I.D. Centers. This program identifies the next generation of soccer players for our U.S. Soccer Youth National Teams. He is currently the ONLY Reports in Polk County, Florida.

“I’m honored to join Winter Haven Soccer Club and excited to help build on its strong foundation,” said Mark Godwin. “My goal is to create an environment where players can reach their full potential, coaches can continue to grow, and the community can take pride in what we achieve together on and off the field.”

“Mark’s experience, professionalism, and passion for player development make him an outstanding addition to our club,” said Les L Moore, President of Winter Haven Soccer Club. “His proven success at every level of the game will help take Winter Haven Soccer Club to the next level.”

In his new role, Godwin will oversee all coaching operations, curriculum development, and player pathways, ensuring that Winter Haven Soccer Club continues to deliver top-quality soccer experience for players, families, and coaches alike.