Conor Ward is in his third year as the head coach for Irvine Valley's men's soccer team after spending three years as an assistant under legendary coach Martin McGrogan.

McGrogan retired in the summer of 2022.

Ward took over in 2023 and helped guide the Lasers to the So. Cal. Regional Playoffs. He has a record of 33-21-11 so far with the Lasers.

Ward has developed all-state and all-Orange Empire Conference players in his timm at IVC with a conference MVP in two of his first three years with the program.

Ward grew up in Scotland and played for two successful youth clubs – Hutchison Vale FC and then Murieston United CFC.

He represented West of Scotland and County teams at all age groups.

He moved on to play between pro clubs – Hearts FC and Falkirk FC at the academy level and then at the semi pro level with Whitburn FC. He lifted the County Cup at Livingston FC Stadium.

Ward has been in the United States for almost five years now.

He works for soccer data analysis company Playermaker and is also the boys Boys Director and Development coach for AYSO United. His duties for the club include ensuring the boys program is reaching targets on playing level, managing team operations and coaching duties.

Ward was also a junior varsity coach at Long Beach Wilson and worked with the Boca Juniors Club in Long Beach before joining the Irvine Valley staff.

He graduated with a degree in Football coaching, youth development and management from the University of South Wales in 2020 and also has a UEFA B license.

Ward is an innovative and highly ambitious UEFA and USSF qualified Coach, who has cultivated an impressive portfolio of experience through roles in the United States, including Capistrano FC, Pro Soccer Consulting, Irvine Valley College, Valley United, AYSO United and more.

He is a forward thinking coach that specializes in player development and is proficient in designing and implementing coaching curriculums and programs which can be utilized throughout a sporting organization to enhance player progression.

Ward possesses a proven track record within Talent ID, Scouting and Player Recruitment, utilizes expertise within analysis to unearth players from European markets; notably Scandinavia and Spain, for USL and NISA clubs.

“Having known and worked alongside Conor over the last five years, he is absolutely one of the most dedicated coaches I know. Conor’s attention to detail and work ethic, both on and off the field, is what makes him such a stand out coach and a person of outstanding capabilities to engage and embrace each and every challenge with energy and professionalism. The personality and characteristics that Conor possesses are what makes him such a well-liked and sought-after coach and I have no doubts that he will continue to develop, progress and reach the highest accolades in world football.” - Dave Rogers: Balzan FC Manager

“Conor has done a fantastic job since he came on board at Pro Soccer Consulting. His commitment to player development, both on and off the field, is something that separates Conor from your average coach. He has gone above and beyond in ensuring the players we bring in at Pro Soccer Consulting are progressing in every aspect of the game. Conor has helped us whilst scouting for players, externally and internally, through our own events and has provided detailed, clear and concise reports to clubs around the world. He is a tremendous asset to our coaching and recruitment team. He has the potential and personality to coach at the highest levels of the game.” - Tom Taylor: Director, Pro Soccer Consulting / Former Assistant Coach at both Tulsa & Wilmington in the USL Championship

“Conor is a passionate student of the game of soccer. He is conscientious, reliable, and has a good sense of humor, attributes that make him popular and respected by the players and coaching staff. In addition to his on field coaching skills, Conor has strong communication skills, as well as excellent computer skills. He uses these to great effect with scouting reports, match, opposition and individual player analysis sessions for the Irvine Valley College team. Conor is active in recruiting and has been successful in helping us bring in International players of a high calibre. Conor is a valuable member of the Irvine Valley College Men’s Soccer coaching staff.” - Martin McGrogan: Head Men’s Soccer Coach, Irvine Valley College