Mike Runeare, in his fourth season as head coach of the Slugs, brings vast experience as both a head coach and as a former player. As a coach, the New York native boasts an extensive resume, including an “A” license from the United States Soccer Federation as well as a “Premier” license from the National Soccer Coaches Association of America. He is also the former head coach of the Santa Cruz Breakers U-16 Academy team, Santa Cruz Breakers NPSL team, and is the current head coach of the Santa Cruz Breakers U-18 Academy team. 

As a player, Mike played four years at the University of Massachusetts, Amherst, captaining the team in 1984. He went on to play professionally for the Houston Dynamo in 1985 and for the Kalamazoo Kangaroos in 1986 as part of the American Indoor Soccer Association. Mike was the UCSC Head Women’s Coach from 2002-2008 where he led the team to an outstanding four NCAA post-season appearances. In his first year with the men’s team in 2009, Mike once again was able to bring his team to the NCAA tournament.