Bio

Alvis Ortega

Assistant Coach / Goalkeeper Coach

Bethel University Women’s Soccer

Alvis Ortega, originally from Pennsauken, New Jersey, is a passionate and experienced soccer coach with a deep background in both playing and developing elite-level talent. A multi-sport athlete growing up, Ortega excelled in swimming, baseball, and soccer before ultimately choosing to pursue soccer at the collegiate level.

He began his college career at Alabama A&M University, where he played three years as a goalkeeper and served as team captain for his final two seasons. Competing primarily against NCAA Division I programs from across the country, Ortega developed a strong foundation in leadership and team dynamics. His early academic challenges as a freshman fueled his commitment to excellence both on and off the field.

After leaving Alabama A&M during his senior year, Ortega sought professional opportunities abroad. He trained with several first-division teams in Bolivia and played for a second-division club, gaining valuable international experience. In 2002, he moved to Spain and nearly signed with 3rd Division side Aravaca CF. During his time in Spain, Ortega began his coaching journey with the prestigious Fundación Real Madrid, where he worked with U-13 and U-18 teams and served as the U-18 head coach during the foundation’s inaugural international academies tournament in Barcelona.

Returning to the U.S. in 2005, Ortega completed his B.S. in Physical Education at Alabama A&M, where he also joined the women’s soccer program as an assistant coach under Frank Davies. That season, the team made history by qualifying for the NCAA Tournament for the first time.

From 2009 to 2023, Ortega founded and directed The Way Soccer Academy, a developmental program focused on individual player growth. Several academy graduates went on to play at top collegiate programs, including Brianna Garcia (George Washington University) and Jennifer Martin (University of Central Florida), with Martin later signing professionally in the German Bundesliga with USV Jena. Another standout, Luciana Ortega, progressed to play for the storied Santos FC in Brazil.

Currently in his second season as Assistant Coach and Goalkeeper Coach at Bethel University, Ortega continues to bring a global perspective and a player-first approach to his work. He also served as head coach for the Jackson Ignite in the Women’s Premier Soccer League (WPSL) during the summer, further expanding his coaching impact.

Ortega is committed to personal growth and helping student-athletes reach their full potential—both as players and individuals. He is excited to help lead the Lady Wildcats into a successful 2025 season alongside Coach Aird.