Sofia Chambers MS ’23
Performance Coach
San Diego Football Club

BY JOHN HOBBS MA ’14

NOT LONG BEFORE SHE WAS THE PERFORMANCE COACH for the San Diego Football Club, Sofia Chambers MS ’23 was a master’s of biokinesiology (with a sports science emphasis) student at USC, laying the groundwork for a long-lasting career in elite sports. At the end of last year, Chambers took the performance coach position — after applying for a different position at first — with the San Diego Football Club, using the power of data to keep the players in top shape. We caught up with Chambers to discuss how the opportunity came about, how her time at USC prepared her and what she finds most fulfilling about working for the San Diego Football Club.

How did this opportunity come your way?
I came across a job posting for a performance scientist role at San Diego FC and decided to apply. Interestingly, though, I ultimately accepted a different position — performance coach — which aligned more closely with the direction I wanted to pursue. This role allows me to integrate and apply data science to periodization and on-field positional demands. It provides a strong foundational understanding of on-field performance and has led me to a multifaceted role where I am involved in technical and performance-based warm-ups, individual training sessions and rehab sessions.

What’s a typical day like for you?
While each day has slight variations, my core responsibilities remain consistent. My mornings consist of meetings, activation and movement preparation in the gym, with physical monitoring embedded within. I then transition onto the field to deliver physical and technical warm-ups, help facilitate small group sessions, or on-field rehab. Post-training, I assist the performance staff in the gym, administering lifts and providing support where needed, as well as supporting the athletes with any nutritional needs. My afternoons involve departmental meetings, sports science analysis, and administrative tasks. My role is highly collaborative, allowing me to work across multiple disciplines to optimize player performance.

In what ways did your graduate studies at USC prepare you for this opportunity?
My time at USC equipped me with both the foundational knowledge and practical experience necessary for a career in elite sports. I was fortunate to have the guidance of exceptional professors, including Dr. Sigward, who played a pivotal role in connecting me with opportunities to apply what I learned in the program. My graduate studies helped refine my ability to apply data-driven insights in professional settings. The program helped facilitate practical application, providing opportunities to intern with professional organizations and build an expansive network.

What advice would you give to current or prospective MS students who are interested in following in your footsteps?
Maximize the opportunities available while in the program. USC offers an incredible network and an abundance of resources, so getting involved in as many experiences as possible — without overextending yourself — is key. Additionally, take advantage of the power of networking. The USC community is well-connected, and the willingness of faculty, alumni, and industry professionals to support students is unparalleled. Building meaningful relationships and taking advantage of mentorship opportunities can open doors to invaluable career opportunities.

What has been the most surprising aspect of the job for you?
What has stood out to me most is how deeply the club embodies the Right to Dream philosophy. [The San Diego Football Club’s Right to Dream Academy is a residential program that empowers young talented plays through soccer, education and character development.] Beyond just developing athletes, Right to Dream provides opportunities for individuals to actualize their potential. Working within this environment has been a transformative experience, highlighting the role of mutual respect and confidence in one another’s abilities to achieve shared goals. I feel privileged to be part of an organization where I am part of something bigger than myself as well as something bigger than this team.

What do you like to do outside of work to unwind?
Spending time with my family is my top priority outside of work, they are truly my best friends and biggest supporters. Beyond that, I enjoy playing pickup soccer, running and spending time at the beach.

Illustration by Jaya Nicely