Coach Rachel
Owner & Founder
Master Trainer - All ages
Rachel Wood is a former professional soccer player for the Boston Breakers in the NWSL. Prior to her career in the NWSL, she player professionally for HK/Vikingur in Iceland. She played collegiately for the University of North Carolina Tarheels for three years where she won 2 NCAA National Championships and finished her senior season close to home at UC Irvine.
Rachel grew up in Southern California and played at the highest level of competition from a very young age. She played for the well known club, Slammers FC. She was also a member of the Aliso Niguel High School Varsity team, Parade All-American, Region IV ODP team, and the U-17 and U-20 National Teams.
Rachel has experienced the joy of earning two national championships and playing in a positive environment. But, she has also experienced the challenges presented by illness, injury, and less than positive coaching. She takes very seriously the responsibility to give back and help young players reach their potential. She is a sought after trainer for female and male soccer players at every level from youth through college athletes.
In 2013, Rachel received her degree in Psychology and Social Behavior. Summit Soccer has been the perfect marriage of Rachel’s passions for people and sports. It has given her an outlet to grow and developing people and, in turn, athletes.
Our Approach to Coaching
All Summit trainers are former players and are trained in Summit’s Positive Coaching Curriculum. We coach the way we wanted and needed to be coached, with encouragement, clear instruction, and belief in each player.
We take the time to understand how each athlete learns, helping them develop proper technique and work toward their individual goals. Across our team, we emphasize working hard, having fun, and maintaining a high level of professionalism.
All Summit trainers undergo CORI background checks.
Coach Emily
Lead Summit Trainer & Goalkeeper Specialist - All ages
Emily is a Hamilton College graduate and former Varsity Goalkeeper, with extensive experience working with field players of all ages and levels. She also served alongside me as an Assistant Coach for the Dana Hall Varsity Girls Soccer Team and is someone I’ve worked closely with and personally vetted. Emily is continuing to grow her coaching education through direct mentorship with me, and you’ll see her consistently integrated into our program — including coaching alongside me in our weekend group sessions.
Her technical knowledge, positive presence, and ability to coach the game from multiple perspectives make her a strong addition to the Summit team.
STRENGTH BY SUMMIT
Summit Soccer Academy’s Speed & Agility, Strength & Conditioning, and Injury Prevention Program
Coach Mike
Sports Performance Coach - All ages
Mike is the Director of Strength and Conditioning at Summit Soccer and has spent more than 10 years helping athletes build strength, confidence, and athleticism. He works with athletes of all ages and levels across a variety of sports, including soccer, football, basketball, tennis, and volleyball.
Mike's coaching philosophy is simple: athletes learn best when training is challenging, competitive, fun, & educational. He believes players should understand the purpose behind what they are doing, helping them develop not only physically but mentally as well. Every session is tailored to meet athletes where they are and help them progress toward their individual goals.
In addition to working with youth and collegiate athletes, Mike has extensive experience coaching adults and working professionals. His passion is helping people become stronger, more resilient, and more confident both in sport and in everyday life.