Matar Faal
Coach
Coach Matar Faal has dedicated more than 20 years to developing young soccer players and sharing his love for the game. A father of three soccer players himself, Matar understands the positive impact sports can have on young athletes both on and off the field.
Raised in The Gambia, West Africa, Matar grew up immersed in soccer, playing the game whenever and wherever he could. His talent and passion led him to compete in leagues in Europe and the Middle East, providing him with valuable experience that would later shape his coaching philosophy. Soccer excellence runs deep in the family—his brother, Tony Sanneh, enjoyed a distinguished professional career in the United States, including time with Major League Soccer clubs such as the LA Galaxy and Columbus Crew.
After immigrating to the United States in 1994, Matar made it his mission to share the knowledge, discipline, and joy that soccer had given him. Over the years, he has coached hundreds of players, helping many advance to high school soccer programs and guiding others toward collegiate opportunities and scholarships. Since immigrating to the United States in 1994, Matar has been committed to using soccer as a vehicle for teaching life lessons, building confidence, and creating opportunities for young people from all backgrounds.
Matar spent more than 15 years coaching with Santos Futbol Club, where he built and developed successful teams while mentoring countless young players. Through that experience, he established a reputation for emphasizing strong technical foundations, character development, and a genuine passion for the game.
Driven by a desire to introduce even more children to soccer and create a player-centered environment, Coach Matar founded Youth Discovery and later launched Upper Arlington United. His vision was to build a club grounded in the values and teaching principles he had developed throughout his coaching career—one that prioritizes long-term player development, teamwork, sportsmanship, strong character, and a love for the game. He believes soccer should help young athletes grow not only as players, but also as confident leaders, resilient teammates, and positive members of their community.
Today, Coach Matar remains committed to helping players of all ages reach their potential while enjoying every step of their soccer journey. His goal for Upper Arlington United is to create a thriving soccer community where players, coaches, and families share a commitment to growth, inclusiveness, excellence, and respect. Through his leadership, he strives to ensure that every player has a pathway to participate, develop, compete, and succeed both on and off the field.
Josh Kumi
Coach
My soccer journey began at age five on a dusty neighborhood field in Ghana, where countless games with my cousins sparked a lifelong passion for the sport. Those early experiences taught me not only the joy of the game, but also the values of teamwork, resilience, and perseverance that continue to shape me today.
As a player, I evolved from an attacking forward and winger into a strong, physical center back, competing at both the high school and club levels before continuing my career at Denison University. Soccer remains a big part of my life, and I still enjoy competing in adult leagues today.
For more than 10 years, I have had the privilege of coaching players of all ages, from energetic toddlers taking their first kicks to high school athletes striving to reach their full potential. I believe every player deserves the opportunity to learn, improve, and enjoy the game, regardless of their starting point.
My coaching philosophy centers on creating a positive, engaging environment where players can develop strong technical skills, build confidence, and foster a lasting love for the game. I focus on age-appropriate development and creating a supportive atmosphere where players feel challenged, encouraged, and valued as teammates.
Whether a player is just beginning their soccer journey or looking to take the next step in their development, my goal is to help them grow as athletes and teammates while ensuring they have fun every time they step onto the field. Nothing is more rewarding than watching young players gain confidence, improve their abilities, and discover the excitement that makes soccer such a special game. At Upper Arlington United, I am proud to be part of a club that believes success is measured not only by results, but by player growth, character, and a lifelong passion for soccer.
Build Skills Through Soccer
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