The Arizona Sidewinders are excited to announce the return of their entire 2024 coaching staff for the upcoming 2025 season. After a year of growth, the team's leadership remains committed to pushing the boundaries and taking the Sidewinders to new levels in the Western Ultimate League.
Melissa Huegerich - Head Coach
In 2024, Melissa Huegerich made history as the first female head coach in franchise history. With over 14 years of coaching experience, her leadership proved to be a transformative force for the Sidewinders. Starting her ultimate career in 2006 at Truman State University and later winning the USAU College Coach of the Year award, Huegerich’s resume is stacked with accolades. She has led multiple teams to Nationals and continues to have a profound impact on Arizona's ultimate scene.
Her focus on maximizing individual strengths and building a cohesive, streamlined team has been instrumental in the Sidewinders' progress. For the 2025 season, Huegerich aims to deepen this approach, creating a competitive and unified team ready for championship contention.
Ross Barker - Assistant Coach
Ross Barker returns for his second year with the Sidewinders. Barker’s playing career includes competing at the highest levels with teams like the Chicago Union and the U24 U.S. National Team. After retiring from professional play in 2023, Barker transitioned to coaching with the same passion and precision he demonstrated on the field.
His experience with high-level competition and his tactical insights make him a critical part of the coaching team. Barker will continue to mentor players and help the Sidewinders develop winning strategies in 2025.
Jax Salustro - Assistant Coach
Former Sidewinders player Jax Salustro also returns for her second season as an assistant coach and sideline coordinator. A former captain of Boston University’s Ozone Pilots and a co-founder of the Delaware Valley Youth League, Salustro brings a decade of ultimate experience. Known for her leadership and empathetic approach to player management, she is excited to continue guiding the team and shaping the next generation of Sidewinders players.
Charlie Hoppes - Strategic Support Staff Advisor
One of the most respected minds in ultimate, Charlie Hoppes returns as the strategic support staff leader. With nearly 20 years of experience as a player and coach, including back-to-back championships with the New York Empire in 2022 and 2023, Hoppes brings invaluable expertise. His role in 2025 will again focus on analyzing opponents and creating strategies to give the Sidewinders an edge in every game. Hoppes’ strategic analysis and ability to dissect opposing teams' play styles will be pivotal as the Sidewinders aim for a strong run at Championship Weekend.
---
With this experienced and dynamic coaching staff returning for the 2025 season, the Arizona Sidewinders are ready to build on last year’s growth and make a serious push for the WUL Championship.
Comments