Coaches

Coach Ramiro Rodriguez is entering his third season as the Head Coach of the Men’s Soccer program at Merritt College.

Originally from Peru, South America, Coach Rodriguez brings over 20 years of experience as both a player and coach at the youth, collegiate, and international levels. As a player, he represented Peru in the inaugural FIFA Youth World Cup in Argentina, an experience that helped shape his competitive mindset and passion for the game.

Coach Rodriguez holds a Master of Science in Sport Science and a Bachelor of Science in Kinesiology from California State University, East Bay, along with a Physical Education Teaching Credential. In addition to his academic background, he has earned some of the highest coaching certifications in the country, including the U.S. Soccer Federation (USSF) “A” License, the NSCAA Premier Diploma (now United Soccer Coaches), and the USYSA Youth National License.

Since 2014, Coach Rodriguez has served as an educator and Physical Education teacher within the Oakland Unified School District, where he is deeply committed to supporting disengaged student-athletes. Through sports, he helps students reconnect with their education, develop discipline, and build confidence both in the classroom and on the field.

Before joining Merritt College, Coach Rodriguez spent 10 years coaching at Las Positas College, where he played a key role in developing student-athletes both on and off the field. Beyond the college level, he has been actively involved in the soccer community as a U.S. Soccer Coaching Instructor and Olympic Development Program (ODP) coach, helping identify and develop elite youth talent.

Coach Rodriguez has been teaching and coaching for over two decades, emphasizing the strong connection between athletics and academics. His coaching philosophy centers on building meaningful relationships with student-athletes and creating a positive, competitive environment. He believes that “great teaching and coaching occurs when a student-athlete with desire is met with skillful coaching in a fun and competitive environment, allowing both to grow.” He also strongly believes that “if you can change their belief, you can change their behavior.”

A dedicated family man, Coach Rodriguez resides in the East Bay with his wife, Laura, and their two children, Santiago and Anna.