Dave Sanford

Dave comes to Gunston after having spent 12 years at DC United’s Academy, most recently as its Academy Director. Under his direction, DC United’s Academy has excelled on and off the field, with countless players for the youth academy having gone on to play at the collegiate level and 16 players that have gone on to sign professional contracts with D.C. United and as well as many others playing abroad. 

Dave holds a USSF “A” License as well as the prestigious Elite Formation Coaching (EFCL) from both Major League Soccer and the French Football Federation. Over the past 10 years, while working full time at DC United, he also has served as Boys Director at Player Progression Academy and an assistant coach at Catholic University.  Dave played collegiately at James Madison University, where he received a B.S. in Sports and Recreation Management and had a minor in Business Administration. 

Dave grew up in Fredericksburg, Virginia, and was a standout player at Chancellor High, where he garnered All-State honors and the Washington Post’s All-Metro honors while leading his team to a state championship. Dave lives with his family just minutes from Gunston’s home fields at Grist Mill Park, near the Mount Vernon area of Alexandria.  

As Executive Director and Director of Coaching, Dave will be responsible for managing and growing all aspects of Gunston’s soccer programs to better serve the Gunston community. He will develop a club-wide curriculum and style of play, oversee player development and coaching education, and manage the day-to-day operations of the organization.