Jimmy Flores, a dual national of the United States and Guatemala, has been an integral part of the TLU Men’s Soccer program for over two decades either as a player or coach. A loyal TLU alumnus, Coach Flores graduated in 2006 with a BA in International Studies and Spanish Studies. He is passionate about developing student-athletes into leaders on and off the field, using soccer as a platform for growth, teamwork, and character building.
After completing his collegiate playing career which included competing in the 2002 NCAA DIII National Tournament, Coach Flores joined the USL PDL Laredo Heat, contributing to their 2007 National Championship title. His playing experiences at the collegiate level and beyond, combined with his time spent in Europe and Latin America, have shaped his approach to the game. Coach Flores’ multinational approach to management and his ability to connect with players from diverse backgrounds are hallmarks of his coaching style.
Coach Flores’ dedication to TLU Men’s Soccer extends beyond the pitch. In 2015, he organized a transformative trip to Guatemala for the team, integrating soccer with education and humanitarian efforts. This experience deepened the players’ understanding of soccer as a global connector and a tool for community engagement. He has also played a key role in elevating the program’s infrastructure, bringing in a major donor to fund the lights and fence for the soccer field while enhancing the overall TLU campus.
Since 2015, Coach Flores established and has managed the TLU Soccer social media platforms, enhancing the program’s visibility and connecting with alumni, recruits, fans and the Bulldog community. His ability to leverage technology to build community reflects his commitment to keeping the program innovative and connected.
Beyond his coaching contributions, Coach Flores leverages his experience as a published author and entrepreneur to inspire student-athletes. He imparts valuable lessons on leadership, personal growth, and social impact tailoring his insights to the unique challenges faced by college athletes. By emphasizing the importance of turning setbacks into opportunities, fostering a winning mindset, and harnessing the power of teamwork, Coach Flores equips players with skills that extend beyond the field. His ability to connect these themes to the realities of collegiate soccer helps student-athletes navigate the demands of balancing academics, athletics, and personal development while preparing them for success in all aspects of life.
His leadership in practice and his philanthropic impact have been recognized by the U.S. Department of State, The Wall Street Journal, and The Rockefeller Foundation. More than his knowledge of the beautiful game, Coach Flores’ understanding of character development and the pillars of success—whether in sports or life—sets him apart. For him, the most rewarding part of coaching is uniting a group of talented individuals, fostering collaboration, and helping them achieve their full potential both as a team and as individuals.
