Our Leadership Team

Our Academy Directors bring a wealth of experience and education to Springwater United Soccer Academy. Having held key roles at various levels of the game, they have played an instrumental part in helping thousands of players reach their highest potential—including advancement to elite youth, collegiate, and professional levels.

Their passion, knowledge, and commitment drive the high standards that define our Academy

Mark Cristante- Founder & Academy Director

Mark brings over 43 years of combined experience as a player and professional coach to Springwater United Soccer Academy. Over the past 21 years, he has held a variety of high-level roles, including:

District Technical Director
District Head Coach
Club Technical Director
Club Head Coach
University Head Coach
High Performance Coach

Mark holds both the UEFA A License and Canada Soccer A License, reflecting his commitment to coaching excellence and player development at the highest standards.

As Academy Director, Mark oversees the methodology, curriculum, player pathway, and overall player development, ensuring a consistent and progressive learning environment for all athletes.

Cesare Tripodo- Academy Manager

Cesare brings over 50 years of combined experience as a player, coach, and administrator to Springwater United Soccer Academy.

Throughout his career, he has held a variety of high-level positions, including:

Executive Director
College Coach
Club President
High Performance Coach

Cesare’s extensive background in grassroots soccer has been invaluable in shaping the growth of the sport across York Region. His leadership has garnered widespread recognition from peers and members alike. He played a pivotal role in elevating York Region’s soccer standards, transforming the regional office into a model admired and emulated by associations across Ontario.

As Academy Manager, Cesare oversees all aspects of the Academy’s operations, including communications, sponsorships, partnerships, and league and member registration.

Tony La Ferrara- Academy Head of Coaching

Tony brings over 50 years of combined experience as a player, coach, and administrator to Springwater United Soccer Academy.

Throughout his career, Tony has held a variety of prominent roles, including:

Club Head Coach
Technical Director
University Coach
High Performance Coach

He is a CSA National “B” licensed coach and a former high school and college teacher, as well as a coaching instructor. His deep understanding of the game and commitment to development have earned him multiple Coach of the Year awards.

As Academy Head of Coaching, Tony oversees our Academy staff and is responsible for mentorship, coach education, and ongoing coach development.

Alex Oprey- Academy Technical Advisor

Alex brings over 40 years of combined experience as a player, coach, and administrator to Springwater United Soccer Academy.

Over the course of his distinguished career, Alex has held several high-profile roles, including:

Professional Head Coach
Technical Director
High Performance Coach

A CSA National “B” licensed coach and former professional player, Alex also brings international expertise having worked for Inter Milan and Juventus Academy.

As Academy Technical Advisor, Alex plays a key role in ensuring the Academy’s technical standards align with global best practices followed by top-tier soccer academies around the world.