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Chris Tolles
Chris Tolles
Bio
Chris Tolles is a highly experienced and respected soccer coach with over 15 years of leadership across youth, high school, and collegiate programs in Southern California. Known for his player-first approach, Chris is committed to developing complete athletes—technically, tactically, and personally—while fostering a culture of accountability, discipline, and mutual respect.
 
Chris currently serves as the Men’s Head Coach and Adjunct Faculty Member at San Diego City College, where he oversees all aspects of the program within the competitive 3C2A system. Prior to returning as head coach in 2022, he spent three years as an assistant coach at San Diego City College and eight years as an assistant coach at San Diego Mesa College, gaining extensive experience in collegiate player development, recruiting, and program operations.
 
He also spent seven years as the Varsity Head Coach at San Diego High School, leading the program to a CIF Runner-Up finish in 2008. In addition, Chris leads the Boys Varsity program at University City High School, where he guided the program to a CIF Championship in 2018, while moving the program from Division 3 to the Open Division, and earning multiple league championships and Coach of the Year honors.
 
At the club level, Chris has coached extensively within elite platforms including MLS NEXT and ECNL, working with organizations such as Albion SC, Legends FC, Notts Forest FC, and Scripps Ranch Soccer Club. His teams consistently emphasize high-level training standards, tactical understanding, and long-term player development. Several of his former players have gone on to compete professionally or overseas.
 
Chris holds a USSF National C License. His coaching philosophy is shaped by his own playing background, which includes collegiate experience at Hamilton College and with the Union Lancers Club under Hall of Fame coach Manfred Schellscheidt, as well as international exposure through European All-Star tours.
 
Above all, Chris measures success not only by wins and championships, but by the growth, resilience, and character of the athletes he mentors. He is passionate about creating environments where players are challenged, supported, and prepared for success both on and off the field.