A Fresh Face on the Waves' Coaching Bench
Maddi Desiano, a former UCLA women's soccer star, is set to begin her coaching career at Pepperdine University, taking on the role of assistant coach for the Waves' women's soccer program.
During her four-year tenure at UCLA from 2018 to 2022, Desiano was a cornerstone of a Bruins squad that captured a national championship in 2022 and secured two Pac‑12 titles. She featured in every minute of the title‑game victory and contributed a decisive goal in the semifinal against Alabama, as well as the game‑winner in the Round of 16 against Northwestern.
Her collegiate success was followed by a professional stint that saw her compete in three different leagues abroad and at home, including matches for the NWSL's Houston Dash, the Danish club Odense Boldklub, and most recently Spokane Zephyr FC.
Head coach Tim Ward expressed enthusiasm about the new addition, noting that Desiano's blend of championship pedigree and international experience will enrich the team's tactical depth and culture.
Desiano herself said she is eager to give back to the sport that shaped her, looking forward to working with the current roster and helping the program continue its upward trajectory.
Pepperdine's soccer program, which has been building momentum in the West Coast scene, hopes that the arrival of a coach with both domestic and overseas exposure will attract top talent and elevate recruiting efforts.