meet the rising star coaches

JAMES MCALOON - FOUNDER AND TECHNICAL DIRECTOR

A leader, manager and coach with vast experience in a variety of roles and organisations. A track record of success at professional, elite and recreational youth football. James is regarded as one of the brightest talents in football in the South East Asian Region. James holds the AFC Professional Coaching Diploma.

MATTHEW O'BRIEN - ASSISTANT TECHNICAL DIRECTOR

Matt is a talented goalkeeper and coach from Co.Tyrone, Ireland. His playing and coaching background is in Gaelic Football. He has represented his club and county at the highest levels, and has been coaching since an early age. Matt holds a UEFA/IFA B Licence and has also completed his Level 1 and 2 coaching badges in Gaelic Football. Matt is also a qualified teacher.

TIN TRAN TRUNG - COACH

Tin has been with Rising Star Football Academy since the inception in Vietnam in 2017. Tin is a former youth team player of the famous HAGL FC of Vietnam’s V League. Tin has an exceptional talent for helping players develop the right attitude, as well as the required skills to progress on their football journey.

EOIN DOLAN - COACH

Eoin joined Rising Star Football Academy in 2018 and holds FAI level 1 and 2 qualifications. Eoin has multiple years of football coaching and playing experience on four continents. Eoin completed a university soccer scholarship in the USA, before playing seasons in the USA and Australia. Eoin sets clear goals for the students and helps each student achieve their potential.

SAMUEL GBEDE - COACH

Samuel has been coaching with Rising Star Football Academy since 2018. Samuel holds a CONCAF C Licence and played professional football in the Ivory Coast up until 2015. Samuel is an inspirational, dedicated and diligent practitioner and strives for fun and excellence in all his sessions.

RYAN GILBERT - ASSISTANT COACH

Ryan is currently studying at university and playing football here in Ho Chi Minh City. Ryan is a talented multi sports athlete and has played in the youth teams of clubs in Malaysia as well as most recently with the Under 21 team of Ho Chi Minh City FC. Ryan has a keen eye for talent and is an articulate and inspiring coach.

ABDOUL OUTARRA - ASSISTANT COACH

Abdoul is an aspiring player and coach. Abdoul has a friendly and calming manner and always ensures the players are engaged and having fun. Abdoul is at the beginning of his coaching journey and plays football alongside his coaching duties in Ho Chi Minh City.