Bio

A Spokane native, Jay Vela brings deep local roots and a proven record of success as both a player and coach to the Spokane Colleges men’s soccer program. After joining the Sasquatch coaching staff as an assistant in January 2024, Vela was named head coach in January 2026.

Vela played his high school soccer at Central Valley High School from 2002 to 2006, where he was a three-year varsity starter and earned first team all-league honors. He continued his career at Spokane Falls Community College, making an immediate impact at the junior college level. As a freshman, he was named an NWAC All-Star after scoring 17 goals with two assists. His sophomore season was one of the most decorated in program history, as he earned NWAC MVP and All-Star honors while serving as team captain. Vela finished the season with 28 goals and 11 assists, helping lead the Sasquatch to the NWAC championship final against Clark College.

Following his time at SFCC, Vela competed one additional season at Adams State College, an NCAA Division II program, before transitioning into coaching.

His coaching background spans youth, club, and elite development levels. Vela has served as a Director of Coaching and coached teams competing in ENCL, Girls Academy, and MLS NEXT. At WE Surf SC, he founded and coached the club’s men’s first team, leading the program to a semifinal appearance in its inaugural season. During his time with WE Surf SC, he became the first coach to win a Northwest GA Conference title, secure a GA playoff victory, and guide a team to the final of an MLS NEXT regional event.

Now leading the Sasquatch as head coach, Vela brings a combination of high-level playing experience, a modern player development approach, and strong ties to the Spokane soccer community.