Matt Martin
Valencia CF Academy Scout
Sacramento, California, United States

Matt Martin is a passionate and dedicated Scout and pushes for progressive and cutting-edge application of methodology in the development of the youth player, seeking profiles designed to enable not constrict expression and talent. Matt scouts for Real Salt Lake Academy & Real Monarchs after completing a very successful stint scouting for Columbus Crew Academy recruiting to set of unique profiles for the reigning MLS Cup Champions.

For the last two years Matt has also scouted for Valencia CF's North American Academy located in Rigaud, near Montreal, Quebec staffed by the Spanish Developmental Giants. Matt and the Soccer Syndicate have also connected with the Valencia, Spain based Development Academy, Eture Sports & Eture FC to leverage an exciting developmental pathway. In addition to live scouting the highest levels in MLS and Europe Matt digs deep at the regional levels of MLSNext, ECNL, NPL & USYS on the West Coast.


Matt co-founded The Soccer Syndicate with Joey Yusunas and Scott Rezendes. The Syndicate provides a wide array of scouting services, including player ID U12 - U23, college draft, USL, and MLSNext Pro. Elite player identification has expanded to clubs in Europe and bodes well for further growth for North America's foremost scouting organization.


Matt instructs SMWW's Soccer Management & Scouting and advocates for establishing modern Scouting Methodology making Columbus Crew an incredible educational opportunity beyond being his club! Matt scouted for The Scouting Network, London, from 2007-09 under Derek Bragg. Mid-Atlantic Regional Scout, NYRB, (Dec 2008 - Jun 2011) under Jeff Agoos. Aug 2011 to Jan 2015: Sporting KC under Asst Coach, John Pascarella & Head Coach/Dir, Peter Vermes. 2015 to 2019 Domestic Scout for Portland Timbers FC. In 2018-20, The Soccer Syndicate's initial contracts with RSL and San Antonio led to many more player discoveries and youth scouting strides made during a tumultuous time in US Youth Soccer's history with the demise of the USSDA & rise of MLSNext. From late 2021 through May 2023: Academy & College Scout for the San Jose Earthquakes. Matthew brought the likes of Max Arfsten, Max Ekk, and Jamar Ricketts, to San Jose.


Matt conducted detailed systems & process analysis for DISA (2006-11); retired USAF Major with 32 years of service. Matt carried a TS/SCI clearance as a NetOps analyst and Inspector. Prior roles included Air Traffic Controller, Air Traffic Control Ops Chief, Airspace Mgr, & Comms & Cyberspace Officer (Master level). Passionate, with a diverse background, Matt brings a cutting edge to scouting.