MEET OUR TEAM OF
EXPERIENCED PROFESSIONALS
THE people that make it happen.
At Spanish Soccer Trials, we take pride in the incredible team we’ve assembled to make our vision a reality. Our staff is made up of some of the most highly specialized and experienced professionals in Spain, each bringing unique expertise and a shared passion for the game.
From former professional players and licensed coaches to recruitment experts and support staff, every member of our team is driven by a common goal: to provide unparalleled opportunities for every player we work with. Together, we create an environment where aspiring footballers can showcase their talent, develop their skills, and take meaningful steps toward achieving their dreams of playing at the highest possible level.
Co-Founder & Director
JAMES DAWES
James Dawes is the Co-Founder and Director of Spanish Soccer Trials, bringing years of experience in player recruitment and talent identification within the football industry. In addition to managing club partnerships and facilitating trial placements, James plays a pivotal role in identifying talented players from around the world who have the potential to compete at the highest levels in Europe.
Co-Founder & Director
SERGI CUESTA
Sergi is also a Co-Founder and Director here at Spanish Soccer Trials. Sergi heads up the logistical operations here at Spanish Soccer Trials which extends to liaising with the scouts/coaches from professional clubs to ensure that each event runs smoothly and to the highest possible industry standards.
Head of Sports Psychology
ENRIQUE PAEZ
In modern football, sports psychology plays a crucial role in enhancing player performance and well-being. As the Head of Sports Psychology, Enrique will be responsible for integrated specific sessions and mental training aimed at developing the mental resilience, focus, and confidence to handle high-pressure situations and maintain consistency on the field.
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Head of Football
JUAN CARLOS AÑÓN
Widely regarded as one of the most experienced and accomplished coaches in Southern Spain, Juan Carlos has built an impressive career, having held roles at virtually every level of the Spanish football pyramid, including in La Liga with Málaga CF. As Head of Football Operations, Juan Carlos oversees the planning and execution of all our trials, tours, and football-related programs, ensuring that every attendee benefits from the highest standards of professionalism and coaching whilst working with SST.
Football coordinator
ALVARO ARIAS
Álvaro Arias brings years of experience developing and working with international players in Spain across multiple competitive levels. His deep understanding of the Spanish football landscape and its pathways has made him a trusted figure for players seeking to progress in one of the world’s most competitive environments. He is heavily involved in the day-to-day operations of Spanish Soccer Trials, from identifying and evaluating promising talent to coordinating high-level showcase opportunities with professional and semi-professional clubs.
GOALKEEPER COACH
JOSEMI SANCHEZ
As SST's Head of Goalkeeping, Josemi brings a wealth of experience—spanning elite-level playing, structured academy coordination, and cutting-edge coaching methodologies. His background is deeply rooted in Málaga’s footballing ecosystem, ideally positioning him to prepare and inspire the next generation of goalkeepers for professional trials and showcases.
PHYSICAL PREPARATION COACH
BRAULIO ALCANTARA
Braulio Alcántara brings a focused blend of rehabilitation experience from Getafe and a current pivotal role at Real Oviedo in La Liga. As SST’s Head of Physical Preparation, he leverages this background to design advanced training regimes that enhance athlete readiness and performance—aligning perfectly with SST’s high-level showcase ethos.
Player/Club Liaison
ALBERTO CUESTA
Alberto Cuesta serves as the Parent and Player Liaison at Spanish Soccer Trials (SST). With a professional football career spanning over a decade, including experience in Spain's Tercera RFEF, Alberto brings invaluable firsthand knowledge to his role. His deep understanding of the football landscape enables him to effectively bridge communication between players, parents, and the organization, ensuring a supportive and informed experience for all involved.