About Us
Saraland Soccer Academy is a registered 501(c)(3) non-profit that provides recreational and competitive youth soccer programs for boys and girls in the Saraland and greater Mobile, Alabama area. Our Academy is managed by licensed staff and volunteers with oversight provided by the Board of Directors.
Meet The Team
Our Board of Directors is comprised of dedicated volunteers who are passionate about providing the youth of our community with a positive and enriching environment to grow, build confidence, and compete.
Board of Directors
Julie Dease - President, Treasurer
Stephen Mayers - Vice President
Leslie Fowlkes - Secretary
Tyler Eads - Member
Josie McDonald - Member
Director of Coaching
Daniel Whelan
Coach Whelan is widely considered one of the premier soccer minds in the Gulf Coast region, with significant head coaching experience at the collegiate, high school, and youth levels. He is currently in his first season leading the boys soccer program at Saraland High School.
He has also been head coach of the men’s soccer team at the University of Mobile, leading the Rams to 2 national title game appearances, 7 conference championships, and earning conference Coach of the Year honors 5 times.
As a player, Coach Whelan was twice an All-American at Embry-Riddle and is a member of the school’s athletics Hall of Fame. He also played at the highest level of youth soccer in his native England, the FA Youth Premier League with the Blackburn Rovers Football Club.
As Director of Coaching, he will oversee player development, mentor and provide training to coaches, and will set the overall coaching and playing philosophy for Saraland Soccer Academy.