Inside the NY Empire FC ISX 2026 Youth Coaching Team: Building Toward Spain

As the dust settles on a buzzing NY Empire FC Suffolk County ID Camp, the energy from the field still lingers. With over 300 players in attendance from across New York, the event was a massive success — and an early preview of what's to come for NY Empire FC’s ISX 2026 teams, who will train year-round and compete at the prestigious Donosti Cup in Spain, July 2026.

We sat down with several key members of the NY Empire coaching staff to hear their thoughts on the camp, their vision for the program, and what excites them most about the journey ahead.

Jesse Corke – Head Goalkeeper Coach

A respected name in goalkeeper development throughout the region, Corke was impressed with the level of talent at the camp. “We had keepers showing shot-stopping instincts and command in the box well beyond their age,” he shared. “To have this level of competition before tryouts even begin shows how strong our foundation will be. Spain is going to be an incredible stage for these kids.”

Nick Biglin – Boys 2011 Head Coach

Biglin, who coaches with Massapequa SC and at Long Island University, saw the camp as a launching pad for a truly elite group. “The players came ready to compete. You could see how motivated they are,” he said. “We’re already identifying guys who can thrive at the international level. It’s rare to have this type of buy-in so early.”

Jason Alvarez – Boys 2013 Head Coach

A product of UST FC Academy, Alvarez brought his signature energy to the younger age groups. “It was electric out there,” he said. “These 2013s are fearless. We’re going to build a team that plays fast, aggressive, and smart. Watching them develop between now and 2026 is going to be something special.”

Jorge Gonzalez – Boys 2010 Head Coach

Hailing from East Coast Football Club, Gonzalez sees the program as more than just a pathway to a tournament — it’s a culture shift.“We’re not just forming teams — we’re building a standard,” he said. “Everyone on this staff comes from competitive clubs. That knowledge and diversity is what will set NY Empire apart.”

Andy Figueroa – Boys 2016 Head Coach

Figueroa, with roots at Atlantic United, is leading one of the youngest age groups. But the standard remains sky-high. “They may be young, but they’re hungry. You can’t teach that kind of passion,” he said. “It’s exciting to shape these boys early and give them an experience like Donosti Cup so young in their careers.”

RicARDO Ayala – Girls 2015 Head Coach

Ayala, a rising coach in the SUSA Academy system, was thrilled to see the girls side represented at such a high level. “Our girls came to ball,” he said proudly. “It’s about giving them the same access, same spotlight, and same challenges as the boys. We’re doing that here.”

A Staff Built Across New York

What makes this NY Empire FC ISX project stand out is the unified vision brought by a diverse and experienced coaching staff. The coaches come from top youth programs including SUSA Academy, Albertson SC, Massapequa SC, East Coast FC, Long Island University, St. Josephs University, Royal Sporting Club, UST FC, and Atlantic United — all converging under the NY Empire banner to raise the standard of youth soccer development.

What’s Next?

With formal tryouts coming this September, the ID Camp has already laid the groundwork for elite-level training and competition. The ultimate goal: representing NY Empire and the United States proudly in Spain at the 2026 Donosti Cup.

“We’re building something much bigger than just a trip,” said Director of Coaching Max Ferro. “It’s a journey — and we’re just getting started.”