More Than a Club.
Southwest Soccer Club is Temecula Valley's oldest youth soccer organization, founded in 2001 by USSF "A" Licensed Director Rachid Elbekraoui, providing Elite Clubs National League (ECNL) Regional competition and recreational programs for players across 20+ cities.
As the oldest soccer club in Temecula, we've built a legacy of cultivating elite talent in a competitive, nurturing environment.
The Southwest Soccer Club Story
Founded in 2001, Southwest Soccer Club (Southwest Soccer Club) is the oldest and most established soccer club in Temecula. What started as a local initiative has grown into a premier development academy under the guidance of Executive Director Rachid Elbekraoui.
Our mission is clear: to cultivate talent in a competitive yet nurturing environment. We don't just teach soccer; we instill discipline, sportsmanship, and resilience in every player that wears our badge.
The Five Pillars of Development
- 1Club CultureBuilding a supportive, competitive family.
- 2IdentificationScouting and recognizing unique potential.
- 3EducationTactical intelligence and technical mastery.
- 4EvaluationContinuous feedback and performance tracking.
- 5ExpansionGrowing the player and the program globally.
Meet Our Leadership
Guided by decades of international professional experience.
Rachid Elbekraoui
Executive Director / CEO
Founder and Program Director of Southwest Soccer Club Academy since 2006. With an MBA and comprehensive international experience, Rachid has managed competitive clubs and global youth soccer programs for decades.
Top Credentials
- — MBA (Masters – Business Administration)
- — USSF “A” License (#A3920)
- — French Football Fed License
- — Frank Hoak's License (Goalkeeping & Pro Coaching)
- — Coerver License Instructor & Director (2001-2011)
- — Global Finance & Strategic Management
- — 10 state cup championships
- — 35+ players played college
- — 7 players in Mexican pro league
- — 2 players in Europe
Experience
- — 15 Years International Pro Playing
- — 15 Years Pro Soccer Coaching
- — 10+ Years Competitive Club Management
- — 8+ Years Coach Training Experience
- — 8+ Years Tournament Director Experience
- — 8+ Years P&L Management Experience
- — 7 Years Electronic Material Engineering & Management
- — 15+ Sales and Marketing Management
Mike Martinez
Director of Youngers
Building the foundation for our next generation. Mike's philosophy focuses on hard work, loyalty, and building strong relationships to maximize player development and team chemistry.
Top Credentials
- — Specialized Youth Coaching License
- — Player Development Certified
- — Team Chemistry Specialist
Experience
- — Decades of Youth Coaching
- — Foundation Phase Expert
- — Mentoring Young Athletes
Hector Avalos B08
Coach
Southwest Soccer Club (Southwest Soccer Club)
Top Credentials
Experience
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Proud members of SoCal League, ECNL RL, National League, and Elite 64.
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Club History Q&A
Frequently Asked Questions
- Who founded Southwest Soccer Club?
- Southwest Soccer Club (SWSC) was founded in 2001 by Executive Director Rachid Elbekraoui. It is the oldest operating youth soccer club in Temecula, California.
- What coaching licenses do Southwest Soccer Club directors hold?
- Executive Director Rachid Elbekraoui holds a USSF 'A' License, which is the highest coaching credential offered in the United States, held by fewer than 1% of soccer coaches nationally.
- Does Southwest Soccer Club help players reach college soccer?
- Yes, Southwest Soccer Club has successfully placed over 35 players into college soccer programs across the United States. Alumni have also gone on to play professionally in MLS, the Mexican Pro League, and Europe.
- How many championships has Southwest Soccer Club won?
- Southwest Soccer Club has secured 10+ State Cup Championships throughout its 25-plus year history in Temecula Valley.