RSL AZ MLS Next has announced that James Garces has been named the head coach of the 08 and 09 boys teams and that Tyler Kirberg has been named as the goalkeeper coach. 

James comes to RSL AZ after serving as the GCU Men's Soccer Assistant Coach the past two seasons.

“I am very happy that James is part of our MLS Next coaching staff," said Juan Fresquez, RSL AZ MLS Next Director. "He is a knowledgeable and a hard-working young coach who has DI college experience. He is a great addition to our staff."

Prior to GCU, Garces spent eight seasons at his alma mater of CSU Bakersfield, one year as associate head coach (2021), and seven seasons as an assistant coach (2015-21).

"I am grateful and excited to take on this opportunity for RSL AZ," said James. "Thank you to Juan and Brent (Erwin) for entrusting me with this new challenge as we look to improve and develop as a club and individually every day."

Tyler, who grew up in Peoria, joins the RSL AZ MLS Next coaching staff after just completing his collegiate career at Cal State Fullerton in 2023. Prior to Cal State Fullerton, Tyler played at UCLA from 2020-22.

“Tyler is a player who played for RSL AZ and was a member of the Real Salt Lake residential academy in Utah. He played at a high-level in college so he knows what it takes to excel," said Fresquez. "Our goalkeepers are in great hands with him."

Tyler played at RSL AZ for three years and attended the Real Salt Lake residential academy in Utah. He won the US Youth Soccer National Championship with Valparaiso United in 2016. 

"I am very excited to be coming back to Phoenix and to be coaching at RSL AZ," said Tyler. "I am looking forward to giving back to the goalkeepers and providing them with the next level of knowledge and thinking to help the goalkeepers become the best in the state. As someone who has progressed through the pipeline, I am very excited for this new chapter and very much look forward to helping out our goalkeepers in their college and pro aspirations."