Spotlight: Andy Warner – A Pioneer in Florida High School Soccer and Youth Development
Andy Warner’s name is synonymous with the growth and success of soccer in Florida, primarily through his high school and club soccer efforts. With a coaching career spanning over three decades, Warner has left an indelible mark on the sport, particularly at Maclay School in Tallahassee and through his youth soccer program, ASG Warner Soccer.
Warner’s journey began in England, where his love for soccer first took root. Andy went to Edge Hill College in Liverpool where he got his Certification in Education. Later, Warner attended Lancaster University where he received his Bachelors of Education with honors. While attending both he played for the National British University National Team. He then came over to America and was the assistant coach for Western Illinois where he also received his Masters in Sports Administration.
Warner took over coaching at Maclay School in 1990, and his influence began to shape the local soccer scene. Over the years, he turned the Maclay soccer program into a powerhouse, winning numerous district titles and guiding his teams to frequent state playoff appearances. His team has won 28 District Championships, appeared in 10 State Championship matches, and won four.
Beyond high school soccer, Warner’s contributions to the sport extended into youth development. In 1989, he co-founded Warner Soccer, a year-round club program to provide young athletes with professional coaching and opportunities to grow in the sport. The club quickly became a staple in the Tallahassee soccer community, offering programs ranging from recreational to competitive leagues and elite travel teams. With Warner Soccer, Andy and his team provided thousands of children access to top-tier soccer education, helping many players advance to collegiate and professional levels.
Andy’s vision for Warner Soccer was simple; to foster a lifelong love for the game while instilling in players the discipline, sportsmanship, and teamwork necessary to succeed both on and off the field. His commitment to nurturing young talent, coupled with his experience as a coach, has made Warner Soccer one of the region’s most respected youth soccer organizations.
“Perseverance, dedication and the love for the game, the three major core values behind what made Andy Warner the man he is today. 35 years of developing kids in the Big Bend Tallahassee area is no easy task but Andy made it work. He has shaped thousands of kids into the soccer players they are today and many of them have gone on to do great things in the soccer community. It has been an honor and privilege to work alongside him for the past five years and I look forward to the many more accomplishments he has in store.” Melissa Alford – ASG Competitive Communications Coordinator and FYSA BOD
Warner’s impact hasn’t gone unnoticed. He has been a key figure in various committees and coaching organizations, advocating for the sport’s growth at both the high school and grassroots levels. His contributions earned him induction into the Florida Athletic Coaches Association (FACA) Hall of Fame and the Florida High School Athletic Association (FHSAA) Hall of Fame, cementing his legacy in the state’s soccer history.
Despite the challenges of a long and demanding career, Warner’s influence on the sport continues to grow. Through both his work at Maclay School and Warner Soccer, he has shaped the lives of countless young athletes, helping them not only develop as soccer players but as individuals. Andy Warner’s story is one of passion, perseverance, and an unwavering dedication to the beautiful game – a legacy that will continue to inspire future generations.
“Andy Warner has been a pillar of youth soccer in Florida for over three decades, not only leading with a professionally organized program but also exemplifying what it means to put kids first. His forward-thinking approach has catalyzed the growth and improvement of local soccer initiatives, including ASG’s role as a founding club of the I-10 Futbol Alliance. His commitment to opening ASG’s facilities for FYSA ODP events and league matches underscores his dedication. Andy’s unwavering enthusiasm and visionary leadership continue to significantly enrich the soccer community in Northwest Florida, making it a better place for both players and coaches.” Louis Richard – FYSA BOD Region D VP