Antonio Meza brings more than 30 years of experience in youth and professional soccer in the United States and internationally to his role as FC Copa Academy’s first Sporting Director. Originally from Chile, Antonio began his playing development in the youth academies of Universidad Católica, Universidad de Chile, and Cobreloa before transitioning into a career focused on coaching, leadership, and player development.

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Antonio spent more than a decade with the New York Red Bulls, where he played an integral role in the development of the club’s nationally recognized academy. During his time with the organization, he held a variety of coaching and leadership positions, including Academy Head of Strength and Conditioning, head coach of multiple academy teams, and head coach of the reserve team. His experience at the professional academy level has given him a broad perspective on player development and the pathway from youth soccer to the next level.

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In addition to his work with the Red Bulls, Antonio has served as Director of Coaching at NJSA 04 and has experience coaching at the collegiate level. He currently serves as a Core Educator with United Soccer Coaches, contributing to the education and development of coaches within the game.

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Antonio holds a U.S. Soccer Federation A License, an ANFP A License from Chile, a UEFA C License from the Scottish Football Association, and a Master Coach Diploma in Coaching and Leadership.

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As Sporting Director, Antonio works closely with FC Copa Academy’s directors, coaches, and staff to strengthen player development, coaching education, methodology, standards, and alignment across the academy. He is focused on supporting the coaches and staff already leading FC Copa’s programs while continuing to build a consistent, high-level development environment for players across all of the club’s locations.

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With FC Copa continuing to grow across New Jersey, New York, and Pennsylvania, Antonio’s extensive experience and commitment to long-term player and coach development are an important part of the academy’s continued evolution. His leadership helps guide FC Copa’s sporting vision while ensuring that player development remains at the center of everything we do.